Muscat – Oman is opening a new chapter in aviation investment, targeting RO1.7 billion in cumulative private-sector investment by 2040 as it seeks to position the sector as a stronger driver of economic diversification, trade and logistics.

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has signed a 35-year concession agreement with Oman Airports for the operation, management and development of Muscat International Airport, Salalah Airport and Sohar Airport, as Oman steps up efforts to attract private investment and transform its airports into integrated economic and logistics hubs.

The agreement was signed during the Civil Aviation Investment Forum held at the CAA headquarters in Muscat, with the participation of government entities, operators, investors and small and medium enterprises.

It was signed by Eng Naif Ali Al Abri, Chairman of the CAA, and Haitham Nasser Al Taie, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Oman Airports.

The agreement aims to develop the three airports in line with international best practices, enhance operational and investment efficiency, and improve safety, security and passenger services. It also seeks to increase capacity, improve the traveller experience through modern technologies and strengthen the airports’ role as commercial and logistical hubs supporting economic diversification and Oman Vision 2040.

A key focus is the development and qualification of national cadres, with efforts to increase Omanisation across technical and administrative positions at the airports.

Speaking at the forum, Al Abri said the National Aviation Strategy 2040 provides a broader framework for investment and development, with 39 initiatives to be implemented in three phases.

The first phase focuses on establishing the regulatory, institutional and investment foundations needed to support sustainable growth. The strategy’s Private Sector Attraction Programme targets cumulative private-sector investment of RO1.7 billion by 2040.

The forum reviewed opportunities in airport cities, land development, free zones, logistics, foreign investment, emerging technologies and advanced air mobility, alongside training and national capacity building.

GMF to develop regional MRO hub

The CAA also signed a 20-year concession agreement with Indonesian company GMF AeroAsia for the operation and management of aircraft maintenance facilities at Muscat International Airport.

The agreement was signed by Al Abri and Andy Fahrrozi, Chief Executive Officer of GMF AeroAsia.

It aims to establish Muscat International Airport as an integrated regional centre for aviation maintenance, providing heavy maintenance and periodic inspections for national, regional and international airlines.

The project will leverage Oman’s strategic location and support the transfer of advanced technologies and expertise in airframe, engine and electronic systems maintenance. It is also expected to create specialised employment opportunities for national cadres.

A cooperation agreement was also signed between Oman Aviation Academy and the Arab Academy for Aviation for student training, while GMF AeroAsia and Mac Aerospace International signed a memorandum of understanding covering aircraft, wheel and brake maintenance and training.

The forum also featured a panel discussion, “Investment in the Civil Aviation Sector: Opportunities and Enablers,” examining the investor journey from identifying an opportunity to establishing and operating a project.

Participants discussed the role of capital, partnerships and national competencies, while the “One Step 2030” session highlighted practical measures to strengthen investment in aviation.

The forum forms part of the launch and readiness assurance phase for implementation of the National Aviation Strategy 2040 and aims to attract new investment, improve the investor experience, simplify procedures and strengthen coordination across the sector.