Muscat – Oman’s population rose to 5,388,513 at the end of May 2026, marking a 1.6% increase compared with the same period in 2025, according to the latest monthly statistical bulletin issued by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI).

Muscat governorate continued to be the country’s most populous region, with 1,538,312 residents, representing 28.6% of the sultanate’s total population.

North Batinah ranked second with 945,647 residents, accounting for 17.6% of the population, while South Batinah followed with 589,152 residents, or 10.9%.

Dakhliyah was the fourth most populous governorate, recording 574,354 residents (10.7%), followed by Dhofar with 535,623 residents, representing about 9.9% of the national population.

Among the remaining governorates, South Sharqiyah recorded 377,701 residents (7.0%), while North Sharqiyah had 322,914 residents (6%). Dhahirah’s population reached 248,613, accounting for 4.6% of the total population.

Buraimi recorded 135,629 residents (2.5%), followed by Al Wusta with 64,566 residents (1.2%). Musandam remained the least populous governorate, with 55,802 residents, representing around 1.0% of the Sultanate’s population.

The latest figures underline Oman’s steady demographic growth, driven by both natural population increases and continued economic activity that has supported employment and investment across the country. Muscat’s continued dominance reflects its position as the nation’s administrative, commercial and economic hub, while the strong populations of the Al Batinah governorates highlight their growing role in industry, logistics and residential development.

Key facts

Muscat’s share: 28.6% of total population

Annual growth: 1.6%

Largest governorate: Muscat (1.54m)

Second largest: North Al Batinah (945,647)