Muscat : Oman’s non-oil exports rose by 8.6 percent in the first quarter of 2025, reflecting the Sultanate’s ongoing efforts to boost industrial output, attract foreign investment, and diversify its economy in line with Oman Vision 2040.
According to official data, non-oil exports reached RO 5.659 billion, accounting for 28.6 percent of the Sultanate’s total exports. These exports include a wide range of products such as industrial goods, metals, plastics, machinery, electrical equipment, and chemicals, showcasing the strength of Oman’s manufacturing and industrial base.
The growth comes amid a national push to reduce reliance on oil revenues, support private sector participation, and localise key industrial projects. Authorities have introduced various incentives and streamlined procedures to attract both local and international investors.
The United Arab Emirates was the top destination for Omani non-oil exports, receiving goods worth RO 292 million, or 18 percent of total non-oil exports. Saudi Arabia followed with RO 259 million, while India received RO 172 million worth of goods. South Korea and the United States ranked fourth and fifth with RO 154 million and RO 88 million respectively.
Despite the growth in non-oil trade, Oman’s oil exports declined in the first quarter, falling to RO 3.690 billion compared to RO 4.391 billion in the same period last year. The drop was attributed to a decrease in global oil prices, with the average price of Omani crude standing at $75.3 per barrel, down from $79.7 per barrel in Q1 of the previous year.
Re-exports also witnessed a downturn, dropping to RO 351 million from RO 434 million in Q1 last year. The UAE remained the top destination for re-exported goods from Oman, receiving RO 126 million worth, followed by Iran (RO 63 million), Kuwait (RO 24 million), Saudi Arabia (RO 22 million), and Germany (RO 10 million).
On the import side, Oman saw a 10.9 percent increase in commodity imports, which rose to RO 4.312 billion compared to RO 3.889 billion during the same period last year. The UAE led the list of exporters to Oman with RO 995 million, accounting for 23 percent of total imports. Kuwait, China, India, and Saudi Arabia followed in the top five.
This overall trade performance underscores Oman’s steady progress toward a more diversified and resilient economy, with strategic emphasis on non-oil sectors and enhanced trade relations with key global partners.
