Oman and Qatar have officially launched the Oman-Qatar Business Forum in Muscat, a strategic two-day event designed to significantly enhance economic partnerships and trade relations between the two Gulf nations. Organized by Oman’s Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion in collaboration with Qatar Exports, the export development arm of Qatar Development Bank, the forum brings together over 45 Qatari companies and a wide range of Omani firms to explore new avenues for collaboration.
A Push for Deeper Economic Integration
The forum underscores a shared strategic vision between the leadership of Oman and Qatar to deepen their economic ties. In his opening remarks, Shaikh Mubarak bin Fahad al Thani, Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Sultanate of Oman, highlighted that the relationship is built on a foundation of mutual trust and complementary interests, with both countries committed to elevating their economic and trade cooperation. This sentiment was echoed by Zahra al Siyabi, Head of the Sultanate of Oman’s Commercial Office in Qatar, who emphasized the event’s role in introducing Qatari companies to Omani markets and fostering direct business engagement to boost trade exchange.
Surging Bilateral Trade
The event is set against a backdrop of impressive growth in trade between the two countries. The total trade volume exceeded QAR 6.3 billion in 2024, representing a substantial 17% increase from the previous year. Qatari exports to Oman accounted for approximately QAR 3 billion of this total. Notably, exports from Qatar’s private sector saw a 4% rise, reaching QAR 109 million and encompassing a diverse range of products including aluminium, plastics, electrical equipment, and chemicals.
Fostering Direct Business Collaboration
Beyond high-level discussions, the forum is structured to facilitate tangible outcomes through a series of direct business-to-business meetings. An accompanying exhibition showcases Qatari companies and their products, providing a platform to highlight specific investment opportunities in both markets. The agenda also includes the signing of new cooperation agreements and field visits to key economic sites, all aimed at translating strategic goals into actionable partnerships and joint ventures.
About the Oman-Qatar Business Forum
The Oman-Qatar Business Forum is a joint initiative organized by Oman’s Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion and Qatar Exports. The event aims to strengthen economic partnerships, expand trade avenues, and promote investment cooperation between the two nations. It provides a dedicated platform for Omani and Qatari companies to engage in direct B2B meetings, showcase products and services, and explore joint investment opportunities to drive sustainable economic growth.
Source: Zawya
