In the first half of 2026, Oman achieved a significant trade surplus of approximately OMR4.7 billion, marking a 51% increase from the OMR3.1 billion surplus recorded during the same period in the previous year. This substantial growth is attributed to a notable rise in merchandise exports, which surged by 15.3% to reach around OMR13.2 billion by the end of June, primarily fueled by robust oil and gas exports.
The value of oil and gas exports experienced a 16.5% boost, climbing to OMR8.6 billion from OMR7.4 billion a year earlier. In addition to the energy sector’s gains, non-oil exports also saw an upswing, increasing by 11.4% to approximately OMR3.6 billion. Re-exports contributed to this upward trend as well, growing by 20% to reach OMR978 million. Meanwhile, merchandise imports saw a modest rise of 2.1%, totaling OMR8.6 billion.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) emerged as Oman’s largest market for non-oil exports, importing goods valued at OMR1.134 billion. Saudi Arabia was the second-largest destination, receiving OMR357 million worth of products, followed by India, which imported OMR333 million in goods from Oman.
For re-export activities, Iran stood as the leading destination, with OMR254 million worth of goods being re-exported there. The UAE followed closely with OMR221 million, and Saudi Arabia was next, importing OMR188 million in re-exported items from Oman.
Regarding imports, the UAE maintained its position as Oman’s largest trading partner, supplying goods valued at OMR2.423 billion. China was the second-largest supplier, with imports reaching OMR1.194 billion, while Türkiye ranked third, exporting OMR676 million worth of goods to Oman.
