MUSCAT – The OMNEX 2026, organised by the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), opened on Monday at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, drawing wide participation from government entities and local, regional and international companies. The Republic of Turkey is participating as the guest of honour this year, reflecting efforts to strengthen investment partnerships, showcase opportunities in the Omani economy and enhance the business environment in line with Oman Vision 2040.
The opening ceremony was held under the patronage of His Highness Sayyid Faisal bin Turki Al Said, who highlighted the importance of the forum as a platform for building genuine partnerships between the private sectors of Oman and Turkey. He noted that the exhibition enables companies from both countries to expand cooperation, create job opportunities, access the Turkish market and, through it, the wider European market.
His Excellency Faisal bin Abdullah Al Rawas, Chairman of OCCI, said the Oman International Exhibition and Forum represents a strategic gathering of decision-makers, government officials, business leaders and investors from within and outside the Sultanate. He described the event as a key opportunity to enhance investments, expand economic partnerships and explore innovation in the business sector, reaffirming Oman’s commitment to sustainable economic growth.
He welcomed Turkey’s participation as guest of honour, saying it reflects the depth of economic relations between the two friendly countries and their shared determination to strengthen trade and investment ties and build long-term strategic partnerships that serve mutual interests.
He added that exhibitions and economic forums are not merely showcases, but strategic tools that support investment growth, business partnerships and the exchange of expertise between local and international business communities, providing an ideal environment for joint ventures and value creation for the national economy.
Her Excellency Ibtisam bint Ahmed Al Farouji, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion for Investment Promotion, said economic relations between Oman and Turkey are witnessing rapid growth. She noted that the number of Turkish companies registered in Oman rose by 21 per cent in 2025, reaching 696 companies, reflecting the strength of the bilateral partnership.
Sezai Uçarmak, Deputy Minister of Trade of the Republic of Turkey, described the forum as an effective economic platform that enhances direct engagement between Omani and Turkish business communities and opens new avenues for cooperation across various sectors. He said trade and investment relations between the two countries continue to grow steadily, underpinned by strong economic ties and a shared ambition to expand partnership and economic integration.
The forum also welcomed participation from other international partners. His Excellency Rustam Minnikhanov, Head of the Republic of Tatarstan in the Russian Federation, affirmed his country’s interest in strengthening trade and economic relations with Oman, identifying Islamic banking and petrochemicals as key sectors for cooperation, supported by Tatarstan’s expertise in both fields.
Sheikh Salem bin Abdullah Al Rawas, head of the Omani side of the Omani–Turkish Business Council, said the Oman International Exhibition and Forum 2026 aims to transform shared visions into tangible projects with sustainable economic impact. He stressed that successful economic relations are built on partnership and integration rather than trade alone, and said the forum provides a practical meeting point for investors, entrepreneurs and decision-makers.
He added that Turkey’s role as guest of honour reflects the growing strength of Omani–Turkish relations, supported by high-level visits between the leaderships of the two countries, including the state visit of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to Turkey, which marked a milestone in bilateral relations.
Dr Mohammed Al Barwani, Chairman of the Mohammed Al Barwani Group, highlighted his group’s investment experience in Turkey as a successful example of long-term, diversified expansion, citing Turkey’s strategic location, strong industrial base, skilled workforce and competitive operating costs as key attractions for Omani investors.
During the forum, several memoranda of understanding were signed between Omani and Turkish companies to support joint investment and cooperation, particularly in the information technology and medical services sectors.
The Oman International Exhibition and Forum will continue over two days, featuring specialised presentations, bilateral meetings and platforms showcasing innovation and investment opportunities offered by Omani and international participants.
