Sohar
Investment Forum 2026 Launches Preparations with Strategic Business Gathering

Muscat,
13 Oct (ONA) — Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) has commenced
preparations for the second edition of Sohar Investment Forum 2026, hosting an
inaugural coordination meeting ahead of the event scheduled for 4-5 February 2026,
in Sohar, North Al Batinah Governorate.

The
forum will operate under the theme “Sohar: The Industrial Investment
Destination,” reinforcing the zone’s strategic position within Oman’s
economic development framework.

The
preliminary meeting, led by the Chamber’s North Al Batinah branch, forms part
of comprehensive efforts to position Oman as a premier investment destination
while highlighting the governorate’s crucial role in driving industrial
transformation and sustainable economic development aligned with Oman Vision
2040.

Faisal
bin Abdullah Al Rowas, OCCI Chairman, emphasized the forum’s significance in
advancing Oman’s profile for regional and international investment. “The
forum underscores North Al Batinah’s competitive advantages, including
strategic location, advanced infrastructure, established industrial zones, and
growing logistics capabilities,” Al Rowas stated.

Eng.
Said bin Ali Al Abri, Head of the Forum’s Organizing Committee, presented the
event’s strategic framework, identifying key industrial sectors including heavy
industry support services, iron and steel, aluminum, plastics, and high-value
food and medical manufacturing. The committee is coordinating with government
entities to identify ready-to-market investment opportunities for presentation
during the forum.

The
inaugural 2024 forum demonstrated substantial economic impact, attracting over
800 participants and showcasing 104 investment opportunities exceeding RO one
billion in value. The event facilitated 14 cooperation agreements valued at
more than RO 115 million, establishing itself as a significant platform
connecting local and international investors while reinforcing North Al
Batinah’s position as an advanced industrial hub.

The
2026 edition at Sohar’s Majan Hall will feature expanded participation from
government institutions, private sector representatives, and international
investors. The program will incorporate dialogue sessions, interactive
presentations, specialized workshops, and an exhibition highlighting
advancements in industrial technology and sustainable development.

Discussion
sessions during the preparatory meeting addressed implementation progress of
projects announced in the previous edition and identified new industrial
investment opportunities. Organizers emphasized early preparation and enhanced
inter-agency coordination to overcome previous challenges and ensure integrated
implementation of forum objectives.

The
meeting gathered senior officials including Faisal bin Abdullah Al Rowas, OCCI
Chairman, Dr. Juma bin Ahmed Al Kaabi, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Bahrain to
Oman, along with embassy representatives, government and private sector
delegates, Chamber board members, and prominent business investors.

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Ends/Khalid