Neutrality amid US-Israel war on Iran cited as an advantage, as well as location of ports away from Strait of Hormuz
2-MIN READ2-MINRalph JenningsPublished: 2:00pm, 20 Sep 2026Chinese firms have shown “very strong interest” in investing in Oman – across the Strait of Hormuz from Iran – as they aim to tap the lucrative Middle East market while minimising risks, an Omani official said.
Banks, asset managers and law firms from China were getting in touch every day to ask about setting up in the International Financial Centre Oman, a free-standing legal zone in the country, the centre’s associate director for business development, Al Hussain al-Qalhati, said.
The International Financial Centre Oman will open in Muscat, the Omani capital, by early next year.
