Decorative lines

Education

Education Sector in Oman

Oman’s education sector is not only a vital driver of human capital development—it is also a cornerstone of the country’s economic diversification and sustainable growth strategy as laid out in Oman Vision 2040. Recognized as a key enabler for transforming the nation into a knowledge-based economy, the education sector attracts both domestic and international investors through its robust policy support, modern infrastructure, and progressive regulatory framework.

Market Value

1.7 bn

(USD) of private education

2023

Government expenditure Reached

6 %

of GDP in recent years

.

GDP Contribution

5 %

Of Oman’s Total GDP

2023

Totaling

2 bn

Riyal Omani (RO)

2023

Education

Market Trends & Growth

Education Institutions, Students and Teachers

Schools

2.1 k

Students

898 k

higher education institutions

898 k

Sultan Qaboos University ranking

From 2018

450 th

To 2023

362 th

Unlocking Oman’s Potential

Opportunities and Projections

Oman’s education sector is expanding, driven by Vision 2040 and rising private investment. With GDP contribution set to grow from 4.9% in 2023 to 6.2% by 2025, the sector offers strong opportunities in digital learning, vocational training, and higher education.

Investment Opportunities

Private Schools & Universities

  • Demand for international curricula (British, IB, American) in Muscat and Salalah.
  • Untapped Potential: Only 23% of students enroll privately vs. 30% GCC average

Specialized Education

  • Vocational training centers for renewable energy, healthcare, and logistics.
  • STEM-focused K-12 institutions

EdTech Solutions

  • AI-powered tutoring apps, VR classrooms, and accredited online degree programs
  • Automation and digitization of the workplace

Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)

  • Co-developing smart campuses, teacher training programs, and research hubs

Growth Projections

Expanding Market Demand -

  • Driven by a youth population where nearly 40% are under the age of 25, the demand for quality education—from early childhood to higher education—is set to soar.

Digital and Innovative Transformation -

  • With ongoing investments in digital infrastructure and e-learning platforms, the sector is expected to witness a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) that will significantly increase both the market value and the quality of educational services.

Projected Investment Returns -

  • Preliminary forecasts indicate that the investment volume in education could more than double by the end of the decade, supported by increasing private sector participation and government incentives.
Oman Education Market
Market Size in USD Million
CAGR 4.2%
USD 2.75
2025
USD 5.10
2040

Unlocking Oman’s Potential

Strategic Developments and Infrastructure

The Oman Academic Accreditation Authority (OAAA)

Overview

The OAAA's name was amended to the Oman Authority for Academic Accreditation and Quality Assurance of Education (OAAAQA), with its responsibilities expanded to include school education and the National Qualifications Framework

Responsibilities

The OAAAQA regulates Oman's higher education quality to meet international standards and maintains the National Qualifications Framework. It also assesses schools based on standards.

Membership

The OAAA is a member of the Arab Network for Quality Assurance in Higher Education (ANQAHE) and the International Network of Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education (INQAAHE)

Evaluation Approach

The OAAA uses the ADRI approach for evaluating the effectiveness of universities

Why Choose Oman for Education Investment?

Gateway Positioning

48-hour logistics reach to 3B consumers across Asia, Africa, and Europe

Resource Wealth

Over 30 commercially viable minerals and 300+ potential sites

Advanced Infrastructure

roads, and industrial zones like Sohar and Duqm tailored for mining logistics

Sustainability Focus

Alignment with global clean energy transitions through copper and critical mineral supply

Government Support: Powering Education Sector.

Allocation of usufruct lands to appropriate sites for school.

Consideration of fees, labor laws and recruitment requirements for non- Omani teachers and the school's governing body.

Incentives are given to activities licensed for private school projects

Provision of bank facilities to raise the value of loans, reduce interest and extend the repayment period.

Elimination or reduction of taxes applicable to private schools

Exemption from fees related to usufruct. (Higher Education)

Grant of 3 million OMR to private universities. (Higher Education)

Let Us Guide your Success in Oman

Discover Opportunities Across Oman’s Thriving Sectors

Discover a wealth of investment opportunities in Oman, meticulously crafted by Invest Oman and various government stakeholders.

Explore Investment Opportunities

Partner with Us to Shape Your Investment Vision

Got unique investment goals? Contact our experts to create a personalized success roadmap in Oman. We're here to help you maximise your venture's potential.

Contact Us