Overview
Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) ranks countries by perceived levels of public-sector corruption, drawing on expert assessments and business surveys. Scores range from 0 (highly corrupt) to 100 (very clean). The index is widely used by investors, multilateral institutions, and rating agencies as a governance quality indicator.
Oman’s Position
Oman typically scores between 44 and 52 on the CPI, placing it in the middle range globally – usually between 55th and 65th. This reflects a generally well-governed public sector with strong rule of law under the Basic Statute, but also acknowledges areas where transparency, procurement oversight, and anti-corruption enforcement mechanisms could be strengthened. The State Audit Institution plays a key oversight role.
Regional Comparison
Within the GCC, the UAE leads with scores consistently above 70, followed by Qatar (around 60). Saudi Arabia has improved markedly, rising from the low 40s to the mid-50s over the past decade. Oman sits in the middle of the pack, ahead of Kuwait and Bahrain on most assessments. The gap with UAE and Qatar highlights opportunities for strengthening institutional transparency.
Trajectory
Oman’s CPI trajectory has been relatively flat, with modest fluctuations rather than a clear upward trend. Vision 2040’s governance pillar emphasises transparency and accountability, and recent measures – including enhanced financial disclosure requirements for state-owned enterprises and digitised government procurement – should support gradual improvement. Moving into the top 50 globally would send a powerful signal to international investors.