Indians can own homes in Oman. Here's how
Since 2006, Oman has gradually opened its real estate sector to foreigners under a regulated legal framework. Through measures such as Integrated Tourism Complexes (ITCs) and usufruct rights, non-Omanis, including Indians can now purchase residential and commercial properties under specific conditions.
Where can foreigners invest in Oman
Indians and other foreign nationals are allowed to own property in Integrated Tourism Complexes (ITCs) and select commercial buildings approved by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning (MOHUP). ITCs are large master-planned projects that combine housing, commercial space, and tourism facilities. Ownership is granted through usufruct — a long-term leasehold right of up to 99 years.
Buyers of undeveloped plots in ITCs must begin construction within four years. If they fail to meet this deadline, the Ministry may repossess and auction the land. Major ITC projects include Al Mouj Muscat, Muscat Hills, Saraya Bandar Jissah, Jebel Sifah, and Salalah Beach Resort.
Buying property in other parts of Oman
In 2020, Oman expanded access for foreigners by allowing usufruct rights in specific zones outside ITCs, mainly in Muscat. Applicants must be at least 23 years old, have lived in Oman for two years, and buy property in multi-storey buildings with four or more floors.
Key restrictions include:
Legal process and documentation
Indians and other foreign nationals must comply with detailed procedures and are advised to work with an Omani lawyer. Key documents include:
Mortgages and financing
Some banks, including Bank Muscat, National Bank of Oman, and Bank Dhofar, provide limited mortgage options for foreigners. Eligibility depends on residency, income, and financial history. Interest rates generally range between 3% and 7% for loan terms of up to 20 years.
Restrictions on ownership
Despite these opportunities, Oman enforces strict zoning rules. Foreigners cannot own property in sensitive or strategic regions such as Musandam, Buraimi, Dhahirah, Wusta, Liwa, Shinas, Masirah, Jabal Akhdar, and Jabal Shams. Ownership is also barred near military bases, heritage sites, archaeological locations, and agricultural land.
Purpose of the policy
The property ownership framework serves dual goals, attracting long-term foreign investment and supporting Oman’s economic diversification. By aligning with ownership models in neighbouring Gulf states, Oman is seeking to build a competitive real estate market while safeguarding national security and cultural heritage.
Foreigners can own property in Oman, but only within carefully regulated zones and under usufruct rights. While the opportunities are expanding, strict conditions, legal requirements, and regional restrictions make it essential for buyers to understand the framework before investing.
Where can foreigners invest in Oman
Indians and other foreign nationals are allowed to own property in Integrated Tourism Complexes (ITCs) and select commercial buildings approved by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning (MOHUP). ITCs are large master-planned projects that combine housing, commercial space, and tourism facilities. Ownership is granted through usufruct — a long-term leasehold right of up to 99 years.
Buyers of undeveloped plots in ITCs must begin construction within four years. If they fail to meet this deadline, the Ministry may repossess and auction the land. Major ITC projects include Al Mouj Muscat, Muscat Hills, Saraya Bandar Jissah, Jebel Sifah, and Salalah Beach Resort.
Buying property in other parts of Oman
In 2020, Oman expanded access for foreigners by allowing usufruct rights in specific zones outside ITCs, mainly in Muscat. Applicants must be at least 23 years old, have lived in Oman for two years, and buy property in multi-storey buildings with four or more floors.
Key restrictions include:
- Each buyer can purchase only one unit.
- Foreigners cannot hold more than 40% of the units in a building.
- Nationals from a single country cannot collectively hold more than 20%.
- Minimum property values are OMR 45,000 in Muscat and OMR 35,000 in other governorates.
- Rights can be sold, inherited, and renewed for up to 99 years.
Legal process and documentation
Indians and other foreign nationals must comply with detailed procedures and are advised to work with an Omani lawyer. Key documents include:
- Purchase agreement and title deed
- Registration with the Ministry of Housing
- Proof of residence and valid passport
- Financial capacity documents such as bank statements
- Site plans, building permits, and environmental approvals
Mortgages and financing
Some banks, including Bank Muscat, National Bank of Oman, and Bank Dhofar, provide limited mortgage options for foreigners. Eligibility depends on residency, income, and financial history. Interest rates generally range between 3% and 7% for loan terms of up to 20 years.
Restrictions on ownership
Despite these opportunities, Oman enforces strict zoning rules. Foreigners cannot own property in sensitive or strategic regions such as Musandam, Buraimi, Dhahirah, Wusta, Liwa, Shinas, Masirah, Jabal Akhdar, and Jabal Shams. Ownership is also barred near military bases, heritage sites, archaeological locations, and agricultural land.
Purpose of the policy
The property ownership framework serves dual goals, attracting long-term foreign investment and supporting Oman’s economic diversification. By aligning with ownership models in neighbouring Gulf states, Oman is seeking to build a competitive real estate market while safeguarding national security and cultural heritage.
Foreigners can own property in Oman, but only within carefully regulated zones and under usufruct rights. While the opportunities are expanding, strict conditions, legal requirements, and regional restrictions make it essential for buyers to understand the framework before investing.
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