Muscat – Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) launched the third edition of Commercial Franchise Programme under the patronage H H Dr Sayyid Kamil Fahad al Said, Secretary-General of Council of Ministers, on Monday.

The event was attended by Sheikh Faisal bin Abdullah al Rawas, Chairman of OCCI, and distinguished officials, members of the chamber’s Board of Directors, and several  business leaders and entrepreneurs.

Highlighting the programme’s significance in supporting the private sector, Rawas said, “It is one of the chamber’s key initiatives aimed at empowering business owners and enhancing Omani companies through franchising. It contributes to boosting the private sector’s competitiveness locally and globally, aligning with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040. OCCI remains committed to supporting private sector institutions and enabling these to enter new markets with proven business models.”

Hamoud bin Salem al Saadi, Second Deputy Chairman of OCCI and Chairman of Franchise Programme Initiative, emphasised the programme’s efforts to instil and expand the culture of franchising in Oman. “It collaborates with partners to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses locally and regionally. In the first two editions, the programme enhanced entrepreneurs’ awareness of franchising through consultations, training courses and field visits. The third edition has attracted over 450 participants, reflecting the programme’s growing success and impact.”

Hamoud added that the second edition facilitated 14 consultations for participating companies, organised training sessions with 155 participants, and conducted nine field visits. Six companies reached the final stage, reflecting the programme’s effectiveness.

Underscoring the achievements of the programme, Zakaria bin Abdullah al Saadi, CEO of OCCI, said, “It is a flagship initiative aligned with the chamber’s strategic objectives to serve the private sector. In its third edition, the programme aims to further enhance economic diversification, improve the business environment, and support economic growth in the governorates consistent with Oman Vision 2040 and the goal of achieving sustainable economic development.”

The programme plays a pivotal role in qualifying Omani businesses, providing these with opportunities to leverage franchising, and contributing to the private sector’s development both locally and internationally.

The launch ceremony included the signing of six franchise development agreements between OCCI and participating companies, and 14 local and international franchise agreements. Additionally, six companies that successfully completed all stages of franchise requirements is the second edition of the programme were honoured during the event.