Ready to explore your investment opportunities and want to set up a subsidiary in Oman in 2026? This article details the key formalities to follow. Please reach out to our Omani local agents and benefit from the legal services we offer to our international clients.
Table of Contents
Is a subsidiary 100% foreign owned in Oman, or do I need a local partner?
A subsidiary can be 100% foreign owned. However, opening this structure in specific sectors in Oman might require a local business partner and government approval.
What is the legislation overseeing subsidiaries in Oman?
Foreign Capital Investment Law in Oman.
What is the proper business structure for opening a subsidiary in Oman?
The limited liability company.
NOTE: Joint stock companies and holding companies are also proper options.
What is the minimum share capital imposed?
None. The former requirement to deposit OMR 150,000 for opening a subsidiary in Oman has been eliminated.
What are the main features of a subsidiary in Oman?
- can operate under a different name than the one of the parent company,
- can develop other activities too,
- it is independent,
- can own various assets,
- foreign and local staff can be hired, etc.
Where do I register a subsidiary in Oman?
At the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP).
NOTES:
- MoCIIP is used for subsidiary incorporation in mainland Oman. The registration in the free zones of Oman is done at the local authority,
- the subsidiary incorporation can be done online or in person,
- a subsidiary representative will be needed for incorporation (one of our lawyers in Oman can help in this matter).
How is the subsidiary registration done? What are the key steps?
- select the optimal business structure/legal form,
- ensure a business address in Oman, and present a lease contract,
- select and verify the business name before reservation,
- complete information required by the Trade Register through standard forms,
- create the Articles and Memorandum of Association,
- open a corporate bank account in Oman,
- register for taxation in Oman and get the TIN (Tax Identification Number), etc.
IMPORTANT: All foreign documents must be translated into Arabic. Authentication and notarization of documents are mandatory before submission.
Do I need a business license before starting the activities with a subsidiary in Oman?
Yes, business licenses are needed depending on the type of activities that will be developed in the specific sector in Oman. Submission and approval are done via the electronic system.
Can a subsidiary in Oman be registered remotely?
Yes. There is no need to travel to Oman to open a subsidiary. Our lawyers in Oman can deal with all the formalities via power of attorney, thus representing customers from abroad in all the legal procedures.
What is the time frame to open a subsidiary in Oman in 2026?
About 4-6 weeks.
Are there any precautions in opening subsidiaries in Oman?
- opening a bank account in Oman means complying with the Anti-Money Laundering and Know Your Customer policies,
- additional approval might be necessary for subsidiaries operating in tourism, manufacturing, healthcare, or retail in Oman,
- some job roles in Oman are closed to foreign employees. Thus, hiring staff from abroad requires maximum attention.
- performance-based annual bonuses are obligatory for Omani employees in the private sector. Make sure you align with the labor regulations when opening a subsidiary in Oman.
Are you ready to set up a subsidiary in Oman? If you are seeking legal services and assistance, you may turn to our law firm in Oman. Contact us today and get your personalized offers.