Definition
Mining is the extraction of valuable minerals and geological materials from the earth. Oman has a diverse mineral endowment including industrial minerals (gypsum, limestone, marble, silica sand, dolomite), metallic minerals (chromite, copper, gold, manganese), and dimension stone. Mining is identified as one of the key diversification sectors under Oman national development strategy, with the potential to generate significant revenue, employment, and export earnings beyond hydrocarbons.
Context in Oman
Oman has a long mining heritage, with copper smelting in the interior dating back over 5,000 years. Today, the mining sector is governed by the Mining Law (Royal Decree 27/2003, amended in 2019) and overseen by the Public Authority for Mining. The sector includes large-scale operations for gypsum and limestone (used domestically in cement and construction and exported to India and other markets), chromite mining in the ophiolite belt, copper exploration, and quarrying. Recent geological surveys have identified additional potential for gold, rare earth elements, and industrial minerals. The government is working to attract international mining companies through improved licensing, geological data sharing, and infrastructure such as the Oman Rail project for mineral transport.
Key Data Points
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Key minerals | Gypsum, chromite, limestone, marble, copper |
| Mining heritage | 5,000+ years of copper smelting |
| Regulatory authority | Public Authority for Mining |
| Mining Law | RD 27/2003, amended 2019 |
| Export destinations | India, GCC, East Asia |
Vision 2040 Connection
Mining is a Tanfeedh and Vision 2040 priority diversification sector. The strategy targets tripling mining sector GDP contribution by 2040 through new discoveries, value-added processing (such as chromite smelting), and better integration with logistics infrastructure. Mining sector employment growth is also a key Omanisation objective.
Further Reading
- [[Oman Copper Mining History]]
- [[What is Oman Rail]]
- [[What is Economic Diversification]]