Muscat – Oman has confirmed that geological hydrogen remains at the research and preliminary technical evaluation stage, stressing that no operational or commercial licences have been issued for natural hydrogen production in the sultanate.

The Ministry of Energy and Minerals (MEM) said all hydrogen-related activities are governed by regulatory and technical frameworks aimed at ensuring operational safety, data reliability and the protection of national resources.

The clarification comes amid growing international interest in geological, or natural, hydrogen as countries and energy companies seek new sources of clean and sustainable energy.

Oman’s potential in the field is linked to its distinctive geology, particularly the Samail ophiolite, one of the largest and most complete ophiolite formations in the world. Ophiolites are sections of oceanic crust and upper mantle that have been thrust onto land and are considered important for studying natural hydrogen generation.

The ministry noted that the sector has not yet progressed beyond scientific research and technical assessment. It added that any future transition to development or investment phases would depend on the outcomes of approved studies and comprehensive technical and scientific reviews.

‘No operational or commercial licences have been issued to any entity to carry out natural hydrogen production activities in Oman,’ the ministry said.

It cautioned that many scientific questions surrounding natural hydrogen remain unresolved globally, including how the gas forms, migrates and accumulates within geological formations. Scientific models in the sector continue to vary in their assumptions, methodologies and findings, reflecting the early stage of research.

The ministry also stressed that growing interest in geological hydrogen should not be interpreted as evidence of immediate commercial opportunities.

“Interest in geological hydrogen does not necessarily mean that there are development or investment opportunities ready at the moment,” it said.

According to the ministry, further work is required, including data collection programmes, specialised geological and geochemical studies, and detailed technical assessments before conclusions can be reached on the resource’s economic potential and commercial viability.

Natural hydrogen has emerged as a topic of increasing interest worldwide because it occurs naturally underground and could offer an alternative source of low-carbon energy if commercially recoverable. While exploration efforts are under way in several countries, the industry remains in its infancy.

With its extensive ophiolite formations, Oman is regarded by geologists as an important location for advancing scientific understanding of natural hydrogen systems, even as commercial prospects remain under evaluation.