Buying and investing in property in Oman is regulated by law. Foreign and international buyers and investors may purchase real estate under specific conditions. Ownership rights, residency eligibility, and investment thresholds apply only to approved developments.
Where Foreigners Can Buy Property
Foreigners may own freehold property only in government-approved zones, most commonly Integrated Tourism Complexes (ITCs). These zones are designated for foreign ownership and include residential and mixed-use developments.
Examples of communities where freehold ownership is permitted include Al Mouj Muscat and The Sustainable City.
What Freehold Ownership Means
Freehold ownership provides full legal ownership of the property. This includes:
- Registration of the property in the buyer’s or investor’s name
- Ownership of the unit and associated land
- The right to sell, rent, transfer, or inherit the property
- Legal protection through a registered title deed
Freehold ownership outside approved zones is generally not permitted.
Property Purchase Process
The property purchase process includes selecting an approved property, signing a sale agreement, completing payment through legal banking channels, and registering ownership with the relevant authority.
Residency Linked to Property Ownership
Foreign buyers and investors who own qualifying property may apply for a residency permit, subject to eligibility and approval by the authorities. Residency applications are assessed separately and are not automatic.
Residency Advantages
Holding a residency permit in Oman provides the following advantages:
- Low taxes for residents
- Long term legal residence without frequent visa renewals
- Ability to work or conduct business legally
- Access to local healthcare and educational institutions
- Freedom to enter and leave the country without reapplying for visas
- Easier access to banking services, including credit or mortgage approvals
Residency Conditions
Residency is subject to the following conditions:
Minimum Investment
Any amount invested in real estate located within Integrated Tourism Complexes.
Eligible Applicants
Residency permits may include:
- Spouse
- Children
- Parents
- Nanny/Domestic staff
A property owner holding a valid residence permit may also obtain sponsor-free residence visas for their foreign spouse and first-degree family members, subject to approval by the relevant authority.
Property Type
- Residential property
- Primary market units
- Completed properties only
Validity Period
Residency permits are issued for two years and are renewable.
Oman Golden Visa
The official Oman Golden Residency portal identifies ownership of property in approved tourism zones as one of the possible qualifying routes for ten-year residency, subject to eligibility and approval. Oman has introduced a long term residency program commonly referred to as the Golden Visa. The program allows eligible buyers, investors, and professionals to obtain extended residency permits.
- Five year visa available from qualifying investment
- Ten year visa available from higher qualifying investment
Oman’s Unified Government Services Portal confirms that investor visas are available with five- and ten-year validity periods, subject to applicants meeting the relevant investment conditions and receiving approval from the competent authority.
Golden Visa Benefits
Oman’s Golden Residency Program is designed to provide qualifying investors and their families with greater long-term stability and flexibility. According to the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, its benefits include advantages such as:
- Renewable residency valid for ten years
- Full ownership rights for businesses and real estate
- Property ownership outside Integrated Tourism Complexes
- Family inclusion without restrictions on age or number
- Access to special immigration lanes
- The right to employ up to three domestic workers
- A streamlined digital application process with dedicated relationship managers
All benefits remain subject to the applicant meeting the relevant eligibility requirements and receiving approval from the competent authorities.
How We Can Help
At Aqaro, we advise buyers and investors on freehold property ownership in Oman. We work only with approved developments and currently list properties across freehold communities.
We help clients understand ownership rules, residency options, and available properties, and provide guidance based on individual requirements.
If you would like to explore freehold properties or discuss your options, you are welcome to contact us and speak with our team.
Speak with our team today
Get guidance on freehold properties and available communities in Oman.
