Is Remote Company Formation Still Viable After Oman’s 2025 Reforms?
Is remote company formation still a viable option in Oman, or have the 2025 reforms changed everything? If you’re an entrepreneur sitting outside Oman, dreaming of a digital-first launch, the new rules might look overwhelming. Between changing labour rules, domain requirements, and investment conditions, it’s normal to feel unsure. Many clients come to us worried about paperwork delays, employment mandates, or unclear government policies. Others simply ask: Is a remote company setup in Oman still legal? Good news: It is. But like anything in business, it’s no longer plug-and-play. There’s a clear shift. The government wants commitment, not just registration. If you’re wondering how to still make it work, this post is for you.
At Jitendra Consulting Group Oman, we break down what’s changing, what still works, and how to start smart in this new business climate.
Oman Company Formation 2025 – What’s Changing?
Oman’s 2025 business reforms have stirred quite a few questions around offshore and remote company setups. The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP) introduced several new mandates this year that directly impact how foreigners can launch and run companies without being physically present. You can still register a company remotely, but now, you need to think beyond the launch phase. There’s more emphasis on economic contribution, proper hiring, and regulatory compliance. These rules apply both to Free Zone entities and mainland company registration in Oman. The reforms aim to tighten corporate accountability and ensure foreign ventures are genuinely adding value to the Omani market.
Let’s break it down.
What’s Still Possible with Remote Company Setup in Oman?
- You can still register a company remotely, both in Free Zones and onshore, using a power of attorney (POA). This is often the preferred route for digital founders and investors abroad.
- Free Zones remain flexible: For example, Salalah and Knowledge Oasis still allow 100% foreign ownership, no local partner needed, and remote application procedures. You can check Best Free Zones in Oman for Company Formation.
- E-signature systems and online applications: The MoCIIP still supports digital submissions via Invest Easy.
- You can hold all shares as a foreigner in many business activities, depending on the sector and location.
- Agents and consultants can act on your behalf for the full process—ideal if you’re managing it all from overseas.
Still, success is no longer about setup alone. You need to tick the right boxes after registration.
New Omanisation Requirement – What You Must Do Now
The most significant change under the Oman business reforms 2025 is the push for Omanisation, which directly affects foreign-owned remote companies. If your business is 100% foreign-owned, you’re now expected to hire at least one Omani national within the first 12 months of setup. This is not just a suggestion. If you ignore this mandate, you risk penalties such as suspension of your commercial licence or trouble renewing any expat visas in the future. So even if you’re starting a business in Oman remotely, you must have a local hiring plan. This rule covers:
- Mainland LLCs
- Most Free Zone entities
- Professional and consultancy firms
No industry exemption has been officially confirmed yet. This means remote entrepreneurs must work out employment support or partner with a firm (like ours) that can bridge this gap through HR solutions or staffing advice.
Oman Corporate Law 2025 Changes – How It Affects Remote Founders
Corporate governance just got stricter. A new set of rules came in under Ministerial Decision 5/2025. This applies mostly to Closed Joint Stock Companies (SAOCs), but the spirit of transparency applies across the board.
For remote founders, this means:
- You can no longer run everything loosely from abroad.
- The law now requires stricter board oversight and internal controls.
- Local representation and better reporting are expected within 12 months of registration.
This might sound like bad news, but it’s actually making the business climate safer and cleaner. If you’re planning long-term operations in Oman—even from abroad—these are steps worth aligning with from Day One.
How Oman’s 2025 Domain Rule Could Affect Your Brand
One of the lesser-known but important changes relates to trademarks and domain name management. Starting July 2, 2025, all trademarked companies operating in Oman must also register a .om domain name. This rule applies whether you’re physically in Oman or not. Why does this matter for a remote company setup in Oman? Because if you skip this step, your business risks losing online credibility, especially in local B2B dealings. Plus, enforcement begins in early 2026, so time is ticking. Ensure your domain, website, and trademark portfolio are all aligned and legally compliant. This is a simple but often ignored piece of the puzzle when starting a business in Oman remotely.
Need Help with Oman Company Formation in 2025?
Setting up a business remotely in a country going through reform isn’t always easy. But it’s still possible, if you’re guided well. That’s where we come in. At Jitendra Consulting Group Oman (JCGO), we help entrepreneurs with company registration in Oman and beyond. If you’re abroad and planning a remote company setup Oman-style, or you’re already registered and trying to stay compliant, we’ve got your back.
We’ll assist with:
- Choosing the right legal structure
- Registering your company remotely
- Managing Omanisation hiring
- Meeting domain and IP rules
- Ensuring full legal compliance post-reforms
You don’t need to be on the ground to build a future in Oman.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I still set up a company in Oman remotely (from abroad) after the 2025 updates?
Yes, remote company formation in Oman is still available and legal after the 2025 reforms, for both Free Zones and mainland companies. You can appoint an individual or entity (like us) to carry out the procedures on your behalf. However, the Omani government now expects greater commitment to the country after registration.
What is the new “Omanisation” requirement for foreign companies in Oman? Does it apply to remotely established companies?
The most significant change in the 2025 reforms is the “Omanisation” requirement. 100% foreign-owned companies must hire at least one Omani national within the first 12 months of establishment. This isn’t just a suggestion; this condition is serious and applies to most companies, including those established remotely. Non-compliance could lead to issues with license renewal or expat employee visas.
What are the key legal changes in Oman’s 2025 Corporate Law that affect remote company management?
The 2025 corporate law reforms emphasize governance and transparency. For remote founders, this means management can no longer be “loose.” Stricter board oversight, robust internal controls, better local representation, and regular reporting are now required within 12 months of registration. This makes the investment environment safer and more attractive in the long term.
Why is it mandatory to register a “.om” domain for trademarked companies in Oman by July 2025?
Starting July 2, 2025, it’s mandatory for every company with a registered trademark operating in Oman to register a “.om” domain name. This applies to you even if you manage the company remotely. The goal is to build greater digital trust and credibility for your company in the Omani market, especially in local business dealings. Ignoring this condition could affect your brand’s digital reputation, with enforcement beginning in 2026.
Are Oman’s Free Zones still the best option for remote company setup for foreigners?
Oman’s Free Zones, like Salalah and Knowledge Oasis, still offer significant advantages for remote company formation, especially with 100% foreign ownership and no requirement for a local partner. Their remote application procedures are flexible. However, it’s important to note that the new Omanisation requirements now apply to most Free Zone companies as well, so you’ll need to plan for that.
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