Oman Mining Sector Guide
Oman possesses diverse mineral resources that the government aims to develop as part of Vision 2040 economic diversification. The mining sector currently contributes approximately 1 percent of GDP, with a target to increase this through expanded extraction, downstream processing, and value-added mineral products.
Key Facts
| Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
| Key Minerals | Chromite, copper, gypsum, marble, limestone |
| Mining Licences Active | 300+ |
| Sector GDP Contribution | ~1% |
| Regulatory Authority | Ministry of Energy and Minerals |
| Major Mining Areas | Al Hajar Mountains, Dhofar |
Mineral Resources
Oman’s geological diversity yields a range of industrial and metallic minerals. The ophiolite complex in the Al Hajar Mountains is one of the world’s largest exposed ophiolite sequences, hosting chromite, copper, and nickel deposits. Sedimentary formations provide abundant limestone, gypsum, and marble.
Chromite and Copper
Chromite mining occurs primarily in the Samail ophiolite complex with production serving both local and export markets. Historical copper mining dates back 5,000 years, and modern operations continue to extract copper from deposits in Al Batinah and Al Dakhiliyah governorates.
Industrial Minerals
Gypsum production exceeds 7 million tonnes annually, making Oman one of the world’s leading gypsum exporters. Limestone quarrying supports a growing cement industry with multiple plants operating across the country. Marble from Dhofar is prized for its quality and used in construction regionally.
Mining Law and Regulation
The Mining Law promulgated by Royal Decree governs exploration and extraction activities. The Ministry of Energy and Minerals issues mining licences and monitors compliance with environmental regulations. Foreign investors can participate through joint ventures with local partners or wholly-owned operations in designated areas.
Investment Opportunities
Priority opportunities include mineral beneficiation and processing, silicon production from high-purity silica, rare earth element exploration, construction minerals for infrastructure projects, and mineral-based manufacturing for export markets.