Oman is accelerating a new phase of mining development after rolling out a revamped investment framework designed to position the sultanate as a regional hub for copper, chromite, and industrial minerals. Drawing on a long history of mineral production, the country is modernising its regulatory architecture, expanding geological data availability, and releasing new concession areas to both domestic and international investors.
Mining has been elevated as a core pillar of economic diversification, alongside logistics, manufacturing, and energy. Within this strategy, copper exploration has gained renewed momentum, reflecting surging global demand driven by electrification, grid expansion, and renewable-energy deployment. Oman’s extensive ophiolite belts offer favourable geological conditions for volcanogenic massive sulphide (VMS) deposits, reinforcing copper’s status as one of the most promising growth commodities in the national resource portfolio.
At the same time, chromite—a cornerstone of Oman’s mineral exports for decades—is attracting fresh interest. Expanding stainless-steel and alloy markets across Asia are boosting demand, while Oman’s reputation for high-grade chromite ore provides a competitive edge. Newly opened concessions are aimed at operators capable not only of mining but also of upgrading ore quality, building processing capacity, and integrating downstream value chains.
Regulatory reform sits at the heart of Oman’s mining revival. Authorities have prioritised transparency, investor protection, and environmental responsibility, introducing digital licensing platforms, structured bidding rounds, and clearer fiscal terms. Community engagement requirements and mine-rehabilitation standards have also been strengthened to align with international environmental and social benchmarks.
Infrastructure further enhances Oman’s appeal. Strategic ports, industrial free zones, and integrated logistics corridors support efficient bulk exports and mineral processing. Crucially, the government’s ambition extends beyond extraction: Oman aims to develop a broader industrial ecosystem, including smelting, alloy production, and advanced materials manufacturing.
If policy consistency is maintained and exploration activity continues to scale, Oman is well positioned to emerge as one of the most attractive mining jurisdictions in the Gulf. The combination of prospective geology, modern governance, and robust infrastructure provides a strong foundation for long-term growth in copper and chromite development.
