Britain’s growing economic interests in Oman are fueling record investment. This surge comes as Britain grapples with financial woes at home. The UK faces high debt and low home investment, pushing British firms to seek wealth abroad.
UK Foreign Direct Investment in the Sultanate rose from $23 billion to $35 billion since the 2022 Sovereign Investment Partnership.
Michael Eyley, Director of Trade and Investment at the British Embassy in Muscat, states plainly: “The UK invests more in Oman than the rest of the world combined.”
Five of eight green hydrogen undertakings backed by Hydrogen Oman now include British investors. Each of these deals could bring $5 billion into Omani coffers.
Beyond raw investment numbers, British tourists have begun to see Oman’s charms firsthand.
Britons Flock to Quieter Gulf Shores
British holidaymakers are branching out from the well-worn paths of the Mediterranean. John Mason International tracked a 277% rise in British travel interest over 18 months.
Mr Hood from John Mason International notes how Brits have turned over a new leaf. "More and more Brits are seeking far flung adventures beyond Europe."
The steep rise in British visitors builds on Oman’s standing as one of the world’s safest countries. The Middle Eastern haven draws over 5 million yearly guests to its seaside city of Muscat.
This tourism boom has led Oman to ease its rules for British workers wanting to stay longer.
Entry Rules Welcome More British Workers
The Omani government has scrapped age limits for foreign workers. This change opens the door for older British workers to settle in Oman.
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism woos UK travelers by showcasing Oman’s history and seaside draws. These steps fit with Oman’s 2025 tourism plan, which names the UK as a top market, alongside the UAE.
As tourism interests grow, so do military commitments between the two countries.
Fighting Forces Share Training Ground Skills
The UK and Oman run joint war games called Saif Sareea (‘Swift Sword’). The Royal Navy has set up shop at Duqm port, backing Oman’s growth plans.
British money now flows into new fields. Helios Towers invested $500 million in phone networks. Knights Bay won rights to mine Omani land.
The port of Duqm sits far from Gulf squabbles, making it worth more to British ships. The Royal Navy’s biggest carrier, HMS Queen Elizabeth, can dock there.
British Army training at nearby Ras Madrakah has grown from six weeks to eight months yearly. Both countries plan their fourth Saif Sareea exercise for 2028.
With military might securing the seas, British property buyers have gained trust in Omani soil.
Housing Sales Draw UK Cash Inflows
British buyers eye Omani homes with growing hunger. Houses in tourist zones like Al Mouj and AIDA have seen yearly gains of 10-12%.
Foreign buyers can own homes outright in these special zones. The rules give them living rights too.
Housing yields run from 6% to 8% in sought-after spots. The lack of income tax on rent money draws more British landlords each year.
Trade talks between Britain and Gulf countries could boost business by 16%. Nigel Huddleston, UK minister for world trade, sees big wins ahead: “There’s a great prize on offer here – the potential for what we can achieve together [is] huge.”
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