Saturday 29 / August / 2026
KHASAB — Musandam Governorate is seeking to expand the contribution of non-oil activities to its local economy by capitalising on its strategic location, marine resources, natural landscapes and growing investment opportunities in tourism, logistics and value-added industries.
The governorate is focusing on sustainable tourism, the maritime economy, fisheries-related industries and logistics as key sectors capable of attracting quality investments, creating jobs and strengthening the role of the private sector in line with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040.
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Qutaiti, Director of the Department of Trade, Industry and Investment Promotion in Musandam Governorate, said the governorate has significant economic and investment assets that can support the expansion of non-oil activities and increase local added value.
He identified sustainable and quality tourism as one of the leading investment areas, including tourism and environmental resorts, marine and adventure tourism, as well as medical and wellness tourism.
The maritime economy also offers significant opportunities through fisheries industries, marine services, boat and yacht maintenance and port-related logistics. Other opportunities include light and processing industries, fisheries-related manufacturing, recycling and circular-economy projects.
The governorate also sees potential in logistics and commercial services, particularly distribution and storage centres and services supporting commercial and maritime activities.
Al Qutaiti said priority sectors include sustainable and medical tourism, the maritime economy, small and medium-sized value-added industries, logistics and supply chains.
Musandam's distinctive geography — combining mountains, bays and coastlines — together with its rich marine resources provides a strong foundation for tourism and maritime industries, he said.
Fisheries and agriculture support local economy
The governorate's existing non-oil economy is already supported by activities including fish farming, fish processing and packaging, agriculture and construction contracting.
The agriculture, forestry and fishing sector recorded growth of approximately 7.6%, highlighting its contribution to local value creation and its potential to attract further investment in agricultural and fisheries production and related manufacturing.
The governorate currently has around 3,000 licences for active economic activities, covering construction and contracting, fishing, fish preservation and packaging, agriculture, shipping agencies, hotels, resorts and other businesses.
Officials said the diversity of these activities provides a foundation for expanding private-sector participation, supporting SMEs and attracting investment into emerging sectors.
Infrastructure strengthens investment prospects
Infrastructure development is also improving Musandam's connectivity and investment readiness.
Among the key projects are the development of Khasab Port, the Khasab-Lima-Dibba road, development of Mahas Industrial City and new tourism projects.
Al Qutaiti said these projects will not only improve infrastructure but also strengthen the overall business environment, improve commercial and tourism activity, connect different parts of the governorate and facilitate investor access to markets and resources.
During the next phase, Musandam will concentrate on developing sustainable tourism, the maritime economy, value-added industries and logistics, while empowering small and medium-sized enterprises and attracting quality investments.
The governorate believes these sectors can generate new employment, strengthen local supply chains and increase economic value by linking Musandam's natural and geographical resources with production, services, tourism and maritime activities.
With continued infrastructure development and expansion of its investment base, Musandam aims to establish itself as an increasingly important investment, tourism and economic destination, while raising the contribution of non-oil activities to Oman's broader economic diversification drive.
