Oman is still considered an insider tip among the Gulf states — and that is exactly where your opportunity lies. While Dubai and Abu Dhabi are already established hotspots for investors, Oman offers the chance to enter a market early on that is gaining increasing international attention. The impressive natural landscapes also attract buyers who value not only returns but also exclusivity and quality of life.
In 2026, the Sultanate stands out with attractive entry prices, stable economic conditions and an investor-friendly environment. Political and economic stability make Oman particularly interesting for international investors. At the same time, the targeted expansion of infrastructure and tourism is driving sustainable growth. Those who invest today secure not only a promising asset in a growing economy but also a strategic retreat between pristine beaches, majestic mountains and a fascinating culture.
Whether you are considering a purely return-oriented investment or a property for your own use, this article explains why now is the right time to invest in Oman and how to position your investment strategically.
Since 2022, Oman’s real estate market has shown strong growth momentum. Apartment prices have risen by around 60 percent within just a few years and climbed a further 17 percent in the first half of 2025 alone. Forecasts indicate that this positive trend will continue in the coming years. In particular, locations such as Muscat, Al Mouj, Salalah, Sohar and Duqm are experiencing high demand thanks to new infrastructure projects, waterfront resorts and marina developments. The rising number of real estate transactions in these areas underlines the market’s strong liquidity and attractive potential for investors.
The development pipeline through 2030 includes around 62,000 new residential units, with around 5,500 of these planned for Muscat alone in 2025. Market trends show increasing demand for high-quality and sustainable residential concepts. This expansion offers investors the opportunity to secure attractive locations at an early stage before demand continues to grow.
A major advantage for international buyers is the clearly regulated property ownership framework in the Integrated Tourism Complexes (ITCs). In these designated zones, foreigners are allowed to purchase, own, bequeath and rent out real estate fully and legally. Property titles are officially registered with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning. However, ownership alone does not automatically grant residency rights; these can be obtained separately through the Omani Investor Residency Program.
The Investor Residency Program offers long-term residency options for foreign investors: a five-year residence permit is available from an investment of 250,000 OMR (approx. 650,000 USD), and a ten-year permit from 500,000 OMR (approx. 1,300,000 USD). This system is aimed particularly at long-term investors and families who want to secure their stay in the Sultanate on a permanent basis.
The ITC zones are designed specifically to provide international investors with a secure legal framework. They combine property security with attractive coastal locations and are becoming one of the most important segments in Oman's real estate market.
Beyond real estate, Oman is also positioning itself as a strong investment destination in the Gulf region. Renewable energy projects (particularly hydrogen and solar), maritime logistics in Sohar, Duqm and Salalah, and national industrial zones offer additional growth opportunities. The combination of regulated property ownership, national investment strategies and economic stability makes Oman a solid and future-proof investment market.
With Vision 2040, Oman aims to reduce its dependence on oil and expand key economic sectors such as tourism, logistics and information technology. The focus lies on infrastructure development and diversification to ensure sustainable growth and long-term economic stability. In addition to tourism and logistics, Oman is making targeted investments in renewable energy, real estate, industrial development and digital transformation. The non-oil economy already accounts for over 35 percent of total GDP and grew by 2.3 percent in the first half of 2025.
New infrastructure projects, including road networks, marinas, waterfront developments and resorts, are driving regional development and increasing real estate values. A key example is the Duqm Waterfront project, which combines residential areas, resorts, office space and a marina. Investors benefit not only from rising property values but also from the overall appreciation of these emerging locations.
Since 2023, foreigners have been able to purchase free-hold property in selected Integrated Tourism Complexes (ITCs). These special areas offer clear legal frameworks: Real estate can be completely owned, inherited and freely used or rented out.
ITCs also provide long-term residency rights for investors and their families — including spouses, children and dependent parents. Visa programs such as the Golden Visa ensure permanent residence, flexibility and integration in the country.
For international investors, this means that property in Oman not only generates returns, but can also be used yourself — whether as a holiday home, a second home or a strategic retreat. Your investment thus combines lifestyle, security and financial benefits.
Oman's population is expected to grow to 7.7 million by 2040, of which over 40% are expats. Wealthy individuals are increasingly investing in the Omani real estate market in order to benefit from tax advantages and stable framework conditions.
Population growth is increasing demand for high-quality apartments, villas and holiday properties. Families value spacious floor plans, sufficient rooms and living space. Holiday properties benefit from international tourists who visit resorts such as Hawana Salalah, Al Mouj or Yiti. During peak season (November to March), these properties are often almost fully utilized, which guarantees stable rental income for landlords.
More and more projects are focusing on sustainability and modern standards. Energy-efficient construction methods, smart cities, green buildings and waterfront resorts increase resale value and appeal for long-term rentals.
Forecasts for 2026 show that ESG-compliant real estate continues to gain in importance in Oman. Investors benefit from increasing demand, positive image effects and attractive return opportunities. Developing sustainable projects is part of Oman's long-term strategy to promote economic growth and stability. This opens up a wide range of opportunities, particularly in the areas of renewable energy, real estate and innovative business start-ups, supported by government programs and strategic visions.
In Oman, real estate prices vary significantly depending on location, type of property, number of rooms and equipment. For investors, this means the opportunity to enter attractive segments in a targeted manner and to strategically plan returns. The sale of real estate is a key factor for returns, as profits can be realized directly. At the same time, the value of real estate plays a decisive role in evaluating and documenting successful investments.
The number of real estate transactions continued to rise in 2025, which underlines the high market liquidity and attractiveness of the Omani real estate market. Rentals, both in the area of holiday properties and long-term rentals, offer stable income and additional liquidity.
Apartment prices range between 1,200 and 1,400 OMR/m² (approx. 3,120–3,640 USD/m²), while houses range between 79,700 and 200,000 OMR (approx. 207,000–520,000 USD). High demand ensures stable price development, attractive returns and solid growth potential.
Housing prices range between 800 and 900 OMR/m² (approx. 2,080–2,340 USD/m²). Holiday properties in resorts such as Hawana Salalah benefit from high occupancy rates and strong rental potential during peak season.
Prices per square metre are around 800 OMR/m² (approx. 2,080 USD/m²). The city benefits from expanding infrastructure and proximity to industrial and tourism projects, which increases its attractiveness for investors.
Depending on the location, average rental returns range between 3 percent and 8 percent. Higher returns are achievable in premium resorts. A major advantage of holiday properties is that rental income is often paid in advance, frequently in one or two cheques per year. This ensures predictable cash flow, reduces administrative effort and increases the liquidity of the investment.
Off-plan projects offer entry prices below market value and potential for appreciation during the construction phase. Flexible payment plans and individual adjustments to equipment or floor plan are further advantages. An experienced developer with a proven track record is crucial. The location within the resort or waterfront project influences rentability and future increase in value.
Existing properties allow immediate use and rental. They score points thanks to their existing infrastructure and transparent costs. Holiday apartments in established resorts ensure stable income and direct market experience — ideal for investors who want to start immediately.
Oman does not levy income tax, capital gains tax, or property tax on real estate. Rental income is also tax-free. Only when making a purchase, there is a registration fee of 3—5% of the purchase price.
In doing so, you maximize your net return, ensure long-term increase in value and benefit from transparent framework conditions. This makes holiday properties particularly attractive, as income can be planned and there are no taxes.
Investments in Oman offer great opportunities, but require careful planning and strategic action. Legal and tax considerations such as fees, regulatory requirements, and ownership rights should be considered from the outset. The path to a successful investment involves several steps: from choosing the location to market analysis to choosing the right property developer.
With careful planning, precise analysis and strategic orientation, risks can be significantly reduced and opportunities in the Oman real estate market 2026 can be optimally exploited.
Dubai and Oman are among the most interesting real estate markets in the golf area, both with stable conditions, tax-free returns and growing international interest. Yet they are pursuing different development models — and that is exactly what opens up two attractive paths for investors.
Dubai is a globally established premium market with high market liquidity and a clear investment structure. The city offers sophisticated infrastructure, strong rental markets and international demand. Entry-level properties in good locations start at around 2,000 to 3,000 AED per square foot (approx. 544—816 USD/ft²) or 21,000—32,000 AED/m² (approx. 5,712—8,704 USD/m²) and continue to develop dynamically in prime locations such as Palm Jumeirah, Downtown or Jumeirah Bay Island. Dubai is the market for investors who value global visibility, strong exit opportunities and rapid rentability.
Oman, on the other hand, is in an exciting phase of growth. The market is increasingly opening up to international investors and offers entry prices well below Dubai levels. In projects such as Al Mouj, Yiti, The Wave or Hawana Salalah, waterfront investments start at just 600 to 1,000 OMr/m² (approx. 1,560-2,600 USD/m²). Oman's development momentum is reminiscent of Dubai 15 to 20 years ago — with the advantage that clearer legislation, free hold zones and long-term government programs such as Vision 2040 are already established today. Investors who want to take advantage of early growth opportunities and appreciate nature, peace and exclusivity invest here.
In short:
Dubai stands for speed, liquidity and global appeal.
Oman stands for early entry opportunities, potential and long-term value development.
Both markets are attractive — the decisive factor is which strategy you pursue.
The Oman 2026 real estate market offers stable prices, attractive returns and enormous potential for appreciation. The moderate price level, combined with growing demand, tax exemption and clear ownership rights, makes the Sultanate a real alternative to established golf markets such as Dubai.
With the right strategy, careful choice of location and focus on quality, you can secure a holiday paradise that offers both holiday value and investment potential. Oman combines lifestyle, nature and profitability in a unique way.
We at Real Estate Blondies are happy to help you identify the best locations, projects and developers so that your investment is a perfect fit not only financially but also personally.
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