Oman has outlined its economic and free zone development strategy at a global conference in Panama City, as the country continues efforts to strengthen its position as a regional hub for trade, logistics and investment.
The presentation was delivered during the 12th World Free Zones Organisation Conference, which brought together policymakers and economic zone authorities under the theme of adapting free zones to changing global economic conditions.
The Omani delegation was led by Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, Chairman of the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ). During discussions, he stressed the importance of developing flexible and resilient economic zones that can respond to shifting geopolitical and supply chain challenges.
Oman’s free zone strategy was unveiled at Panama Forum: Implications for investors and entrepreneurs, reflecting the country’s broader push to diversify its economy and attract long-term foreign investment beyond the energy sector.
Al Yousef highlighted Oman’s geographic position, along with its ports and infrastructure projects, as key factors supporting its ambition to become a logistics and industrial centre linking regional and global markets.
He also pointed to ongoing efforts to enhance cooperation with international partners and adopt global best practices to improve the competitiveness of Oman’s economic zones and industrial cities.
The conference also included the organisation’s annual general assembly, where members reviewed priorities and adopted initiatives aimed at strengthening the role of free zones in the global economy.
Oman became a member of the World Free Zones Organisation in July 2025, a step officials say is intended to expand international cooperation and attract higher-value investments into its economic zones.
On the sidelines of the event, the Omani delegation held bilateral meetings with participating countries to explore potential investment partnerships and exchange expertise on managing and developing free zones.
Across the Gulf, governments have increasingly focused on special economic zones as part of broader diversification strategies aimed at reducing reliance on hydrocarbons and building competitive non-oil sectors.
