The new Commercial Companies Law (CCL) in Oman was enacted by the Royal Decree Number 18 of 2019, (the Law)

These are geographically defined business areas that offer benefits to companies operating in them, such as exemptions from tax, customs, and duties and simplified administrative procedures, e.g. company incorporation, and visas for expatriates and their families.

As a matter of introduction, the main backbone legislation for determining the duties which are required from directors are the Oman Law No 4/1974.

Many investors view VAT in Oman as a compliance issue that arises only after a business has been established or operations have commenced. In practice, however, VAT considerations often arise much earlier and can influence fundamental investment decisions, including transaction structuring, target company valuations, intra-group arrangements, and the project's financial model.

The OAC Arbitration Rules issued in November 2020 provide a modern procedural framework for resolving disputes in Oman and are carefully aligned with leading international arbitration practices.

Royal Decree No. 22/2018 amending the Law of Protection of Competition and Prevention of Monopoly.

Royal Decree no. 33/2018 issuing the Regulations for Implementation Support and Follow-up Unit.

The following Q&A, originally published for Lexis Middle East, answers important questions regarding the laws and regulations governing Banking in Oman.

Royal Decree no. 32/2018 granting Omani citizenship.