Oman Rolls Out New Rules for Fuel Stations: Here's the Catch

If you're planning to open a fuel station in Oman, take notes — the rules just got a major upgrade.

The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion has unveiled a fresh set of fuel station regulations under Ministerial Decision No. (/2025). The new framework lays down stricter conditions for licensing, site selection, safety, and sustainability, all part of a national push to modernize Oman’s fuel infrastructure and attract responsible investment.

A One-Year Countdown

Existing operators and newcomers have 12 months to align their stations with the new rules, starting from the day the regulation takes effect. Operating without a valid license? That’s a hard no. Selling fuel outside designated zones? Only allowed if you're a licensed mobile fuel station.

Distance Rules Are a Big Deal

One of the major shakeups? The minimum distance rule. New stations must be at least 5km away from any other station (existing, under construction, or approved) if the road isn’t a dual carriageway — this applies nationwide except for Muscat, Salalah, and Sohar. For integrated stations, the required gap jumps to 50km, unless the committee makes an exception.

Paperwork and Plot Size

Thinking of building? You’ll need a feasibility study, proper land documentation (title deed, lease, or usufruct), and the land must be zoned for commercial, tourism, industrial, or mixed-use. A commercial fuel station must sit on at least 3,000 sqm — no shortcuts unless you’re already up and running.

Got a Tanker? That’s Regulated Too

Marine, above-ground, and mobile stations have their own sets of hoops to jump through, from approvals by port and civil defense authorities to adherence to strict technical specs for fuel storage and transport. Even temporary stations need the right paperwork and must be up and running within a year — or the license is void, and the applicant is locked out for two years.

Fuel Sales Limits and Monitoring

Fuel can only be sold to vehicle, boat, or equipment tanks — no random barrel fill-ups beyond 100 liters per vehicle per day. Every drop must be logged, with monthly reports filed to the authorities.

Tech-Forward, Safety-First

This isn't just about bureaucracy — Oman is laying the groundwork for a tech-savvy, sustainable fuel network. Expect to see EV charging points, solar-powered stations, and even hydrogen fuel options roll out in the future.

The Ministry also wants stations to feel like service hubs — with ATMs, repair shops, restaurants, prayer rooms, and accessible amenities built in.

Penalties and Enforcement

Breaking the rules comes at a price. Fines range from OMR 1,000 to OMR 5,000, and violations can lead to license suspension or cancellation. Repeat offenders beware: fines may double. Miss the deadline or provide false info, and you’re out.

One Committee to Rule Them All

A newly formed inter-ministerial committee, featuring reps from Housing, Energy, and the Royal Oman Police, will handle tricky applications — especially those that don’t meet the distance rules. Their decisions must come within 30 days, and applicants can appeal to the Minister if rejected.

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The Ministry says these changes are all about boosting service quality, promoting green energy, and building investor confidence. It’s also looking to bring in more transparency through clearly defined site allocations under usufruct agreements, aimed at attracting local and foreign investment.

So if you're thinking about pumping up your fuel business in Oman — get ready to level up.

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