Technology park · Muscat
Setting up at Knowledge Oasis Muscat (KOM)
Knowledge Oasis Muscat is Oman's technology park, home to IT, software, telecoms and research companies, close to Sultan Qaboos University.
Last reviewed 13 October 2026Free first consultation · reply within one business day
What KOM is, and what it isn't
Knowledge Oasis Muscat (KOM) is a technology and knowledge park managed by Madayn, the public establishment for industrial estates. It provides offices, labs and data-centre-ready space for technology businesses, with a community of tech firms, start-ups and academic partners nearby.
KOM is not a free zone. Companies in KOM are normally registered as mainland companies with MOCIIP, usually an LLC or SPC, and lease their premises within the park. This means they can sell directly to Omani customers, including government, without customs boundaries.
Who KOM suits
- Software development and IT services companies
- Telecoms, data and cloud service providers
- Research, innovation and R&D teams
- Start-ups taking part in Oman's innovation and accelerator programmes
Benefits
- A recognised technology address in Muscat
- Ready-to-use office and technical space
- An ecosystem of technology companies and support programmes
- Proximity to talent from Sultan Qaboos University and other institutions
- Any Madayn incentives that apply to your project, confirmed at application
Setup steps
- Register your company on the mainland with technology activities. See the IT and technology licence.
- Apply to Madayn for space at KOM and sign the lease.
- Register the lease and complete the municipality licence.
- Obtain any sector approvals, for example from the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority for telecom services.
- Labour approvals and visas for your team.
KOM vs a mainland office in Muscat
| Knowledge Oasis Muscat | Mainland office in Muscat | |
|---|---|---|
| Company type | Usually a mainland company with premises in the park | Mainland company |
| Environment | Technology cluster, shared facilities | Any business district |
| Best for | IT, software, telecoms, R&D | All service businesses |
| Market access | Full access to the Omani market | Full access |
Because KOM companies sell into Oman directly, the main decision is about premises and ecosystem rather than tax. See business setup in Muscat.
Typical timeline
| Step | Typical time |
|---|---|
| Activity check and KOM space enquiry | 1–2 weeks |
| Company registration | 1–2 weeks |
| Lease and fit-out | 2–6 weeks |
| Licences, bank and visas | 2–6 weeks |
Documents you will need
- Shareholder and company documents (checklist)
- Company profile describing technology activities
- Space requirements and headcount plan
Costs
Office rents in the park are in line with good-quality Muscat offices, with registration and visa costs as for any mainland company. See the setup cost guide and the IT licence page.
How we help
We register the company with the right IT activities, coordinate the KOM lease, and handle visas for your developers, the bank account and accounting. Read how to start an IT company in Oman.
Frequently asked questions
Is Knowledge Oasis Muscat a free zone?
No. KOM is a technology park. Companies there are generally mainland companies leasing space from Madayn, which lets them trade freely in Oman.
Can a foreign tech company own 100% of a company at KOM?
Yes. Most IT and software activities are open to 100% foreign ownership under the Foreign Capital Investment Law.
Where is Knowledge Oasis Muscat?
In the Rusayl and Al Khoudh area of Muscat, close to Sultan Qaboos University and the Rusayl industrial estate.
Is Knowledge Oasis Muscat a free zone?
It is a technology park rather than a customs free zone. Companies there generally operate as mainland companies with full access to the Omani market.
Next steps
Related services and guides
- 01MuscatSet up a company in Muscat, Oman: mainland LLC or SPC, Knowledge Oasis Muscat, office districts, licences, costs, timelines and visas, with a Muscat-based team.
- 02IT & Technology LicenceSet up an IT, software or technology company in Oman. Activities, TRA approvals for telecom services, data rules, KOM office options, foreign ownership and steps.
- 03SPC RegistrationSPC company in Oman explained: SPC meaning, who can register a single person company, 100% foreign ownership, documents, cost and timeline.
- 04Madayn Industrial EstatesSet up a factory or workshop in a Madayn industrial estate in Oman. Estate locations, land leasing, licences, incentives and how it compares to free zones.
- 05Khazaen Economic CitySet up in Khazaen Economic City in Barka, near Muscat. Dry port, logistics and light industry, incentives, who it suits and how to establish your company there.
- 06Mainland vs Free ZoneMainland vs free zone company in Oman compared: market access, tax, customs, Omanisation, office rules, costs and visas, with clear guidance on which to choose.
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