Historical Context
Oman-Turkey relations have deepened significantly since the 2010s, building on a foundation of shared interest in regional stability and economic complementarity. While the relationship lacks the historical depth of Oman’s ties with Britain or India, Turkey’s growing role as a regional power and its economic dynamism have made it an increasingly important partner. Diplomatic exchanges have intensified, with high-level visits and the establishment of a Joint Economic Commission driving institutional engagement.
Economic Partnership
Bilateral trade between Oman and Turkey has grown to approximately USD 1-2 billion annually. Turkish construction companies have won major contracts in Oman’s infrastructure development programme, including road, housing, and commercial building projects. Turkey exports food products, textiles, machinery, and construction materials to Oman, while importing primarily hydrocarbons and petrochemicals. Turkish Airlines’ direct Muscat service has boosted tourism and business travel in both directions. Investment flows are growing but remain modest relative to potential.
Strategic Dimensions
Turkey’s relationship with Oman navigates the complex dynamics of Turkish-GCC relations, which have been strained by Turkey’s positioning during the Qatar blockade, its support for Muslim Brotherhood-affiliated movements, and its military presence in Qatar and Libya. Oman’s neutral stance in these intra-regional disputes has allowed it to maintain positive relations with Turkey without the tensions that have characterised Turkish relations with Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Defence cooperation includes military training exchanges and equipment procurement discussions.
Future Outlook
The Oman-Turkey relationship has significant untapped potential. Turkish expertise in construction, textiles, agriculture, and SME development aligns with Oman’s diversification priorities. Tourism cooperation could grow substantially given Turkey’s success as a global tourism destination. Defence industry cooperation, particularly in unmanned systems where Turkey has demonstrated capability, is an emerging area. The normalisation of Turkish-Saudi and Turkish-UAE relations since 2021 creates a more permissive regional environment for Oman-Turkey partnership deepening.