Overview
The establishment of a dedicated Investment Court in Oman in 2025 created a specialised judicial body focused on resolving disputes involving foreign investors and major commercial projects. The court addresses a longstanding investor concern by providing fast, expert adjudication of complex commercial matters through judges with specialised knowledge of investment law, international contracts, and cross-border transactions. The initiative strengthens the legal infrastructure that underpins Oman’s ambition to attract significant foreign direct investment.
Key Points
The Investment Court operates with streamlined procedural rules designed to resolve cases more quickly than general courts. Judges are selected for expertise in commercial and investment law, with opportunities for international judicial exchange and continuing education. The court has jurisdiction over disputes involving foreign investment, public-private partnership contracts, and special economic zone activities. Proceedings may be conducted in English as well as Arabic, removing a language barrier for international parties. Alternative dispute resolution is encouraged as a first step before formal litigation.
Current Status
The Investment Court has received positive reactions from international business associations, law firms, and investment promotion agencies. Early cases are being processed under the new procedural framework. The court has established cooperation agreements with international commercial arbitration centres to facilitate enforcement of foreign arbitral awards. The establishment of the court has been cited in investor reports as evidence of Oman’s commitment to rule-of-law protection for commercial interests.
Vision 2040 Context
The Investment Court directly supports Vision 2040’s objective of becoming a leading investment destination. Investor confidence depends on the certainty that disputes will be resolved fairly, efficiently, and by competent adjudicators. By establishing a world-class commercial court, Oman removes a significant barrier to investment and sends a clear signal that the Sultanate takes its legal obligations to investors seriously.