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Zawya
05-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
New regulations issued for fuel stations in Oman
Muscat: The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion has issued Ministerial Decision No. ( /2025) regarding the regulatory framework governing the conditions and requirements for issuing licenses to establish and operate fuel filling stations. The decision stipulates that all concerned parties must rectify their status within one year from the date the regulation comes into effect. It also emphasises that the activity of establishing and operating fuel filling stations may not be carried out without obtaining a license in accordance with the provisions of this regulation. Furthermore, the decision prohibits the sale of fuel outside the designated site, with the exception of mobile fuel stations. The Ministry affirmed that coordination is underway with the relevant authorities to identify locations designated for the establishment of integrated fuel stations under usufruct agreements prior to offering them for public bidding, with the requirement that all specified conditions and procedures be met. The Ministry is also responsible for overseeing and monitoring the activities of licenced marketing companies to ensure compliance with the provisions of the regulation, detect violations, and take the necessary corrective actions. Requirements for establishing fuel stations The decision stipulates that the distance between any proposed fuel filling station and an existing, under-construction, or approved station must not be less than five kilometres, whether in the same or opposite direction, if the road is not dual carriageway, and this applies across all governorates and wilayats of the Sultanate of Oman. Exceptions are made for the Governorate of Muscat and the Wilayats of Salalah and Sohar. A feasibility study is required, along with the fulfillment of security, technical, and planning considerations. Additionally, the decision requires that the distance between two integrated fuel stations must not be less than fifty kilometres in the same direction. However, the committee may grant exceptions to this requirement if justified by economic and technical considerations. The regulation emphasises that the proposed site must be supported by a title deed, lease agreement, or usufruct right, and must be designated for commercial, mixed-use residential-commercial, tourism, or industrial purposes. This requirement excludes elevated, marine, and mobile fuel stations. The decision further affirms that the establishment of an integrated fuel station under a usufruct agreement is only permitted at locations specifically designated by the Ministry. Commercial fuel stations The regulation stipulates that the site area for a commercial fuel station shall not be less than 3,000 square meters, excluding existing stations. Licensing applications for private fuel stations must include details such as the type of fuel, the number of designated vehicles and equipment, and the distance to the nearest existing station. Additionally, applicants must submit a copy of the project agreement or provide clear justifications in the absence of a public or private project. For marine fuel stations, the regulation requires the submission of a feasibility study along with documentation proving that the site has been allocated by the Ministry of Agricultural, Fisheries and Water Resources for fishing ports or by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology for commercial ports. For above-ground fuel stations, a feasibility study must also be submitted. The site must be designated for commercial or industrial use and located within industrial zones. Additionally, there must be full compliance with standard specifications for fuel transport containers, including tanks, barrels, or designated packaging. For mobile fuel stations, the regulation requires the submission of a feasibility study and approval from the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority. The Ministry clarified that any party wishing to establish and operate a fuel station must submit an application to the licensed fuel marketing company, ensuring that all specified requirements are met. The marketing company evaluates the proposed site and, if the project is deemed economically viable, forwards the request to the relevant department. This department is responsible for registering the application and issuing a preliminary approval form valid for six months, during which all necessary approvals must be completed. If this timeframe or any extension period expires without completion, the application is canceled. A temporary one-year licence is issued to commence construction upon payment of the required fee. If the project is not completed within that period, the licence is cancelled, and the application cannot be reconsidered for a period of two years. Terms and conditions Upon completion of the station's facilities, the licensed company must notify the relevant department and submit a final approval certificate from the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority. The final license will then be issued within thirty days and will be valid for three years, renewable under the same terms and conditions. The regulation allows applicants whose requests are rejected to file a grievance with the Minister within thirty days of being notified. Failure to respond within this period is considered a rejection of the grievance. The Ministry emphasised that the license may not be waived without its written approval. Additionally, changing the name of the marketing company requires an official clearance document or a final court judgment. The Ministry has established a specialised committee, chaired by the Ministry itself and including representatives from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning, the Ministry of Energy and Minerals, and the Royal Oman Police. This committee is responsible for reviewing license applications that do not meet the minimum distance requirement. The committee must issue a decision within thirty days, and applicants have the right to file a grievance with the Minister in the event of a rejection. The regulation also imposes several obligations on licensed marketing companies and operators. These include registering submitted applications, evaluating proposed sites, ensuring the implementation of safety measures in coordination with the Royal Oman Police, providing essential services and electric vehicle charging facilities, maintaining a 24/7 security surveillance system, and complying with approved technical standards. Companies must also ensure staff training and provide inspection access to regulatory authorities. The Ministry emphasised that fuel sales are strictly limited to vehicle, equipment, and boat fuel tanks. Refuelling into tanks or barrels exceeding 100 liters per vehicle per day is prohibited. All such transactions must be recorded, and monthly reports must be submitted to the relevant department. Administrative penalties The regulation outlines several administrative penalties, including a written warning, a fine ranging from OMR1,000 to OMR3,000 with the possibility of doubling in case of repeat violations or suspension or revocation of the licence. A monthly fine of OMR500 is imposed on those who continue operations after the expiration of their licence. Additionally, a fine of OMR5,000 is levied on a marketing company that delays payment of the annual fee. The licence will be revoked if the activity is not carried out for a period of six months without a valid excuse, or if false information is provided. Any party subject to a penalty has the right to submit a grievance to the Minister within sixty days from the date of notification or awareness of the decision. A lack of response within thirty days will be considered a rejection of the grievance. Improving the business environment The update of the regulatory framework governing the conditions and requirements for issuing licenses to establish fuel filling stations is one of the key steps taken by the Ministry to improve the business environment and regulate the sector. The primary objective of this update is to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework that clearly defines the conditions and requirements for the establishment and operation of all types of fuel filling stations. This includes stations that provide gasoline and diesel services, as well as those offering alternative fuels such as natural gas or hydrogen. The Ministry continuously reviews these conditions to ensure alignment with modern technical standards, including environmental and safety requirements, in order to provide the highest levels of protection for both citizens and station workers. Enhancing institutional integration The updated regulation also aims to strengthen coordination among key stakeholders, such as the Civil Defence Authority, the Environment Authority, and the Ambulance Authority, to ensure effective implementation of the regulations. The Ministry seeks to encourage investment in this vital sector by creating a regulatory environment that supports the expansion of fuel stations and offers investors well-considered opportunities within a fair legal framework that ensures competitiveness. One of the main goals of these updates is to enhance the quality of services provided at fuel stations. This includes the addition of user-friendly amenities such as ATMs, maintenance centers, restaurants, mosques, and dedicated services for people with disabilities. The new regulations will also introduce mandatory licensing requirements, including clearly defined criteria for station size, geographic location, and the range of services to be provided. Technical and safety requirements The regulation will also include stringent technical and safety requirements aimed at upholding public safety standards and protecting the environment. These requirements will be established in coordination with relevant authorities such as the Civil Defence Authority and the Environment Authority, to ensure alignment with international standards in this field. Furthermore, the regulation will promote the adoption of modern technologies at fuel stations, including the provision of electric vehicle charging points and hydrogen refueling stations. It will also emphasise the use of solar energy as part of sustainable energy solutions for power generation at fuel stations. The regulation will also work towards improving market organisation by allocating fuel station sites under usufruct agreements based on precise and transparent criteria, including organising bidding processes to select the most suitable locations. This step aims to increase investment opportunities and provide a favorable environment for both local and international investors in the sector. These updates will include a transitional period that allows existing station owners sufficient time to adjust their operations in accordance with the new requirements, ensuring business continuity and easy adaptation to the updated standards. Existing stations will also receive support from the Ministry to facilitate the transition in line with the new safety and quality standards. © Muscat Media Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Times of Oman
04-05-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
New regulations issued for fuel stations in Oman
Muscat: The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion has issued Ministerial Decision No. ( /2025) regarding the regulatory framework governing the conditions and requirements for issuing licenses to establish and operate fuel filling stations. The decision stipulates that all concerned parties must rectify their status within one year from the date the regulation comes into effect. It also emphasises that the activity of establishing and operating fuel filling stations may not be carried out without obtaining a license in accordance with the provisions of this regulation. Furthermore, the decision prohibits the sale of fuel outside the designated site, with the exception of mobile fuel stations. The Ministry affirmed that coordination is underway with the relevant authorities to identify locations designated for the establishment of integrated fuel stations under usufruct agreements prior to offering them for public bidding, with the requirement that all specified conditions and procedures be met. The Ministry is also responsible for overseeing and monitoring the activities of licenced marketing companies to ensure compliance with the provisions of the regulation, detect violations, and take the necessary corrective actions. Requirements for establishing fuel stations The decision stipulates that the distance between any proposed fuel filling station and an existing, under-construction, or approved station must not be less than five kilometres, whether in the same or opposite direction, if the road is not dual carriageway, and this applies across all governorates and wilayats of the Sultanate of Oman. Exceptions are made for the Governorate of Muscat and the Wilayats of Salalah and Sohar. A feasibility study is required, along with the fulfillment of security, technical, and planning considerations. Additionally, the decision requires that the distance between two integrated fuel stations must not be less than fifty kilometres in the same direction. However, the committee may grant exceptions to this requirement if justified by economic and technical considerations. The regulation emphasises that the proposed site must be supported by a title deed, lease agreement, or usufruct right, and must be designated for commercial, mixed-use residential-commercial, tourism, or industrial purposes. This requirement excludes elevated, marine, and mobile fuel stations. The decision further affirms that the establishment of an integrated fuel station under a usufruct agreement is only permitted at locations specifically designated by the Ministry. Commercial fuel stations The regulation stipulates that the site area for a commercial fuel station shall not be less than 3,000 square meters, excluding existing stations. Licensing applications for private fuel stations must include details such as the type of fuel, the number of designated vehicles and equipment, and the distance to the nearest existing station. Additionally, applicants must submit a copy of the project agreement or provide clear justifications in the absence of a public or private project. For marine fuel stations, the regulation requires the submission of a feasibility study along with documentation proving that the site has been allocated by the Ministry of Agricultural, Fisheries and Water Resources for fishing ports or by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology for commercial ports. For above-ground fuel stations, a feasibility study must also be submitted. The site must be designated for commercial or industrial use and located within industrial zones. Additionally, there must be full compliance with standard specifications for fuel transport containers, including tanks, barrels, or designated packaging. For mobile fuel stations, the regulation requires the submission of a feasibility study and approval from the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority. The Ministry clarified that any party wishing to establish and operate a fuel station must submit an application to the licensed fuel marketing company, ensuring that all specified requirements are met. The marketing company evaluates the proposed site and, if the project is deemed economically viable, forwards the request to the relevant department. This department is responsible for registering the application and issuing a preliminary approval form valid for six months, during which all necessary approvals must be completed. If this timeframe or any extension period expires without completion, the application is canceled. A temporary one-year licence is issued to commence construction upon payment of the required fee. If the project is not completed within that period, the licence is cancelled, and the application cannot be reconsidered for a period of two years. Terms and conditions Upon completion of the station's facilities, the licensed company must notify the relevant department and submit a final approval certificate from the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority. The final license will then be issued within thirty days and will be valid for three years, renewable under the same terms and conditions. The regulation allows applicants whose requests are rejected to file a grievance with the Minister within thirty days of being notified. Failure to respond within this period is considered a rejection of the grievance. The Ministry emphasised that the license may not be waived without its written approval. Additionally, changing the name of the marketing company requires an official clearance document or a final court judgment. The Ministry has established a specialised committee, chaired by the Ministry itself and including representatives from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning, the Ministry of Energy and Minerals, and the Royal Oman Police. This committee is responsible for reviewing license applications that do not meet the minimum distance requirement. The committee must issue a decision within thirty days, and applicants have the right to file a grievance with the Minister in the event of a rejection. The regulation also imposes several obligations on licensed marketing companies and operators. These include registering submitted applications, evaluating proposed sites, ensuring the implementation of safety measures in coordination with the Royal Oman Police, providing essential services and electric vehicle charging facilities, maintaining a 24/7 security surveillance system, and complying with approved technical standards. Companies must also ensure staff training and provide inspection access to regulatory authorities. The Ministry emphasised that fuel sales are strictly limited to vehicle, equipment, and boat fuel tanks. Refuelling into tanks or barrels exceeding 100 liters per vehicle per day is prohibited. All such transactions must be recorded, and monthly reports must be submitted to the relevant department. Administrative penalties The regulation outlines several administrative penalties, including a written warning, a fine ranging from OMR1,000 to OMR3,000 with the possibility of doubling in case of repeat violations or suspension or revocation of the licence. A monthly fine of OMR500 is imposed on those who continue operations after the expiration of their licence. Additionally, a fine of OMR5,000 is levied on a marketing company that delays payment of the annual fee. The licence will be revoked if the activity is not carried out for a period of six months without a valid excuse, or if false information is provided. Any party subject to a penalty has the right to submit a grievance to the Minister within sixty days from the date of notification or awareness of the decision. A lack of response within thirty days will be considered a rejection of the grievance. Improving the business environment The update of the regulatory framework governing the conditions and requirements for issuing licenses to establish fuel filling stations is one of the key steps taken by the Ministry to improve the business environment and regulate the sector. The primary objective of this update is to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework that clearly defines the conditions and requirements for the establishment and operation of all types of fuel filling stations. This includes stations that provide gasoline and diesel services, as well as those offering alternative fuels such as natural gas or hydrogen. The Ministry continuously reviews these conditions to ensure alignment with modern technical standards, including environmental and safety requirements, in order to provide the highest levels of protection for both citizens and station workers. Enhancing institutional integration The updated regulation also aims to strengthen coordination among key stakeholders, such as the Civil Defence Authority, the Environment Authority, and the Ambulance Authority, to ensure effective implementation of the regulations. The Ministry seeks to encourage investment in this vital sector by creating a regulatory environment that supports the expansion of fuel stations and offers investors well-considered opportunities within a fair legal framework that ensures competitiveness. One of the main goals of these updates is to enhance the quality of services provided at fuel stations. This includes the addition of user-friendly amenities such as ATMs, maintenance centers, restaurants, mosques, and dedicated services for people with disabilities. The new regulations will also introduce mandatory licensing requirements, including clearly defined criteria for station size, geographic location, and the range of services to be provided. Technical and safety requirements The regulation will also include stringent technical and safety requirements aimed at upholding public safety standards and protecting the environment. These requirements will be established in coordination with relevant authorities such as the Civil Defence Authority and the Environment Authority, to ensure alignment with international standards in this field. Furthermore, the regulation will promote the adoption of modern technologies at fuel stations, including the provision of electric vehicle charging points and hydrogen refueling stations. It will also emphasise the use of solar energy as part of sustainable energy solutions for power generation at fuel stations. The regulation will also work towards improving market organisation by allocating fuel station sites under usufruct agreements based on precise and transparent criteria, including organising bidding processes to select the most suitable locations. This step aims to increase investment opportunities and provide a favorable environment for both local and international investors in the sector. These updates will include a transitional period that allows existing station owners sufficient time to adjust their operations in accordance with the new requirements, ensuring business continuity and easy adaptation to the updated standards. Existing stations will also receive support from the Ministry to facilitate the transition in line with the new safety and quality standards.
Zawya
30-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Sohar International participates as strategic partner at Advantage Oman Forum 2025
Muscat: Reaffirming its position as a catalyst for national progress and sustainable economic transformation, Sohar International participated as the Strategic Partner of the Advantage Oman Forum 2025 — an exclusive, high-level gathering held recently at the St. Regis Al Mouj Resort in Muscat. The two-day event was graced by the presence of His Highness Sayyid Shihab bin Tarik Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for Defence Affairs, and was organized by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion in collaboration with Invest Oman. The opening ceremony was attended by Mr. Abdulwahid Mohamed Al Murshidi, Chief Executive Officer of Sohar International, along with other members of the Bank's executive management team — further emphasizing the Bank's leadership presence and strategic involvement in national initiatives. Bringing together over 250 prominent figures, including senior officials, decision-makers, and regional and international investors, the forum underscored Oman's position as a promising investment destination. It convened a distinguished cohort of senior government representatives, global investors, and influential business leaders to explore Oman's dynamically evolving investment landscape and examine the global megatrends shaping the nation's future economic trajectory. By aligning with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, Sohar International underscores its commitment to advancing Oman's strategic vision and enhancing the country's global investment appeal. Mr. Abdulwahid Mohamed Al Murshidi, Chief Executive Officer of Sohar International remarked, 'Our involvement in the Advantage Oman Forum reflects Sohar International's deep-rooted belief in the power of strategic dialogue to influence real-world outcomes. While capital mobilizes projects, it is foresight, knowledge exchange, and collaborative ambition that turn visions into impact. These forums serve as catalysts for precisely that—bringing together change-makers, innovators, and decision-makers who are reimagining what's possible for Oman and the wider region. At Sohar International, we view our role not just as financial facilitators, but as active partners in the nation's economic evolution—championing fresh perspectives, incubating bold ideas, and creating the conditions for sustained, inclusive growth.' As part of its participation at the forum, Sohar International hosted a dedicated stall, offering an interactive platform to engage with stakeholders, investors, and delegates on the bank's latest initiatives, financial solutions, and strategic vision. Adding further depth to the bank's involvement, Mr. Abbas Al Lawati, Executive Vice President – Investment Banking, FIG, and International Operations at Sohar International, delivered a presentation titled 'Banking Beyond Lending' highlighting how the banking model is evolving from basic transactional services to globally integrated, tech-driven solutions — a shift that enables banks to diversify offerings, boost efficiency, and drive sustainable growth. As Oman continues to amplify its global investment appeal through world-class infrastructure, investor-friendly regulations, and a progressive development policy, Sohar International remains steadfast in supporting the nation's ambitions, advancing opportunities that create shared value for people, partners, and the economy at large. About Sohar International With the vision to become a world-class Omani services company that helps customers, community and people to prosper and grow, Sohar International operates with a purpose to help people 'win' by delivering responsive banking for their ever-changing world, complementing their growth and prosperity with international standard service delivery. The Bank seeks to redefine banking in Oman through transformational developments centred on the principles of More Velocity, making everything simple and fast; More Value, ensuring relevance and connectivity to customers' world; and More Vision, liberating stakeholders through talented leadership.
Zawya
29-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
GCC Accreditation Centre opens first branch in Oman
MUSCAT: The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion officially launched the first regional branch of the GCC Accreditation Centre (GAC) in Muscat on Sunday, April 27, 2025. The launch was followed by the unveiling of the logo of the Omani Accreditation Centre. The ceremony, which took place at the JW Marriott Hotel, was presided over by Jasem Mohamed al Budaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, and attended by Qais bin Mohammed al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, and senior public and private sector officials. This move is consistent with Oman Vision 2040 and will further enhance the Sultanate's accreditation and quality systems. The new office will provide internationally recognized accreditation services, promote product and service conformity, and enhance regional trade integration. Eng Mut'ib bin Saeed al Mizani, Director General of the GCC Accreditation Center, said: "In a move which reinforces its steadfast commitment towards enhancing Gulf cooperation, the Sultanate of Oman has formally inaugurated a branch of the Gulf Accreditation Center in Muscat. The establishment of this center is a testament to Oman's central contribution and strong support for common Gulf endeavours.' Eng Al Mizani added, "The center will oversee the issuance of accreditation certificates to all types of goods to ensure they meet regional and international standards. The drive is expected to establish a strong foundation to increase the quality and competitiveness of Omani products and create a proper environment for the goods to enter regional and international markets." He added. Emad bin Khamis al Shukaili, Director General for Standards and Metrology of Oman's Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, commented: "We are celebrating today the official inauguration of the first branch of the Gulf Accreditation Center at the regional level of GCC countries in the Sultanate of Oman. This parallels the launching of our temporary programme, supplementing the Tenth Five-Year Plan by introducing the Omani Accreditation Center." "The importance of operating both the Gulf and Omani centers simultaneously is to achieve two primary objectives: First, to provide accreditation services, which have not been available in the Omani market for a very long time; Second, to enable the Omani National Accreditation Center to obtain international acceptance during this period and the future period, God willing," he further noted. The Ministry further initiated the "Omani Competencies Programme," which is designed to train a new generation of quality and accreditation professionals, thus furthering the nation's quest for a knowledge-based economy. The ceremony concluded with the signing of a second agreement of cooperation between the Ministry and GAC, paving the way for more accreditation services and eventual international recognition for the Omani Accreditation Centre. 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Observer
28-04-2025
- Business
- Observer
GCC Accreditation Centre opens first branch in Oman
MUSCAT: The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion officially launched the first regional branch of the GCC Accreditation Centre (GAC) in Muscat on Sunday, April 27, 2025. The launch was followed by the unveiling of the logo of the Omani Accreditation Centre. The ceremony, which took place at the JW Marriott Hotel, was presided over by Jasem Mohamed al Budaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, and attended by Qais bin Mohammed al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, and senior public and private sector officials. This move is consistent with Oman Vision 2040 and will further enhance the Sultanate's accreditation and quality systems. The new office will provide internationally recognized accreditation services, promote product and service conformity, and enhance regional trade integration. Eng Mut'ib bin Saeed al Mizani, Director General of the GCC Accreditation Center, said: "In a move which reinforces its steadfast commitment towards enhancing Gulf cooperation, the Sultanate of Oman has formally inaugurated a branch of the Gulf Accreditation Center in Muscat. The establishment of this center is a testament to Oman's central contribution and strong support for common Gulf endeavours.' Eng Al Mizani added, "The center will oversee the issuance of accreditation certificates to all types of goods to ensure they meet regional and international standards. The drive is expected to establish a strong foundation to increase the quality and competitiveness of Omani products and create a proper environment for the goods to enter regional and international markets." He added. Emad bin Khamis al Shukaili, Director General for Standards and Metrology of Oman's Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, commented: "We are celebrating today the official inauguration of the first branch of the Gulf Accreditation Center at the regional level of GCC countries in the Sultanate of Oman. This parallels the launching of our temporary programme, supplementing the Tenth Five-Year Plan by introducing the Omani Accreditation Center." "The importance of operating both the Gulf and Omani centers simultaneously is to achieve two primary objectives: First, to provide accreditation services, which have not been available in the Omani market for a very long time; Second, to enable the Omani National Accreditation Center to obtain international acceptance during this period and the future period, God willing," he further noted. The Ministry further initiated the "Omani Competencies Programme," which is designed to train a new generation of quality and accreditation professionals, thus furthering the nation's quest for a knowledge-based economy. The ceremony concluded with the signing of a second agreement of cooperation between the Ministry and GAC, paving the way for more accreditation services and eventual international recognition for the Omani Accreditation Centre.
