Oman has been making notable strides on the international stage, achieving significant improvements across several competitiveness indicators, according to the National Competitiveness Office. By 2024, the Sultanate advanced 20 ranks on the Corruption Perceptions Index, placing 50th out of 180 countries. Its performance on the Environmental Performance Index soared more than 90 positions, landing it at 55th globally.
These advances were highlighted on March 15, 2025, when the Ministry of Economy released data showcasing Oman’s upward mobility on key global metrics. The nation's progress is also noted on the Network Readiness Index, where it climbed four ranks to 50th out of 133 countries.
According to Dr. Salem bin Abdullah Al Sheikh, Director of the National Competitiveness Office, Oman’s economic freedom score improved significantly from 62.9 to 65.4 out of 100 by 2025, categorizing its economy as “mostly free.” The country has also increased its scores on various governance indicators, achieving 70.2 out of 100 on the Rule of Law Index, 66.5 on Organizational Quality, and 62.2 on Government Effectiveness.
Dr. Al Sheikh attributed this progress to the dedicated efforts of national teams and committees established to follow up on these indicators. Various teams—such as those focused on innovation, environmental performance, and business readiness—have been formed under the National Competitiveness Committee, actively working on improving Oman’s standing.
“Those entities have been working tirelessly to improve the Sultanate’s performance on these indicators,” stated Dr. Al Sheikh. He noted significant studies were conducted on the Corruption Perceptions Index, resulting in recommendations submitted to relevant authorities for implementation, which has contributed to the improvement seen across international measures.
This improvement reflects the overall performance of the Omani government, which has played a substantial role by introducing new laws, enhancing governance at various governmental bodies, and implementing projects aligned with annual plans. The National Center for Statistics and Information has also been instrumental by continuously updating and improving data shared with international organizations.
“The enhancements across competitiveness indicators are the result of collaborative efforts among governmental, private, and civil sectors and demonstrate positive community engagement,” Dr. Al Sheikh emphasized, highlighting the proactive responses from local experts and specialists to international surveys.
Efforts to improve the internal environment have remarkably influenced international performance, with the National Competitiveness Committee and the National Competitiveness Office aiming to position Oman favorably over the next two years. The key goals remain enhancing the internal environment and having clear objectives and targets.
There are certain indicators whose methodologies changed post-COVID-19, introducing new elements, which Oman aims to address as it strives to be part of the updated Business Ease of Doing report for the upcoming year.
Dr. Al Sheikh noted Oman’s current approach focuses on improving various indicators, including innovation and business readiness, alongside environmental performance. “Enhancing Oman’s international performance on these indicators is viewed as providing international institutions with clear roadmaps for decision-makers and policymakers,” he explained.
He noted the importance of achieving positive reputations among investors, entrepreneurs, and experts. Dr. Yousuf bin Hamad Al Bloushi, an economic expert and founder of the Smart Gateway for Consulting and Investment, remarked on the significance of international competitiveness indicators as key tools for countries to attract investors and hone their competitiveness amid increasing global challenges.
“International competitiveness indicators provide clarity for enhancing the internal business environment, especially within covered domains,” he said. There has also been early interest to track Oman’s global competitiveness dynamics, showing dedication toward continually improving its standing.
Oman’s Vision 2040 relies on many of these indicators to secure strategic goals aimed at fostering integration, enhancing international cooperation, attracting foreign investment, boosting exports, and strengthening the role of the private sector.
Despite the recent achievements, experts stress the necessity of continuous efforts for improvement. "There is still ample room for obtaining even more favorable outcomes, facilitating transformative economic changes within Oman’s economic structure," Dr. Al Bloushi concluded, emphasizing the potential for growth and enhancement as the nation navigates toward its strategic objectives.