The U.S. Export-Import (EXIM) Bank is actively pursuing export and project financing opportunities in Oman and has signed a $500 million memorandum of understanding with Oman. U.S. companies might consider EXIM products for potential deals in Oman, especially those that advance U.S. foreign policy objectives. EXIM and the Omani government are in the process of concluding a memorandum of understanding to enhance trade and economic cooperation between the two countries.

Methods of Payment

The most common method of business payment in Oman is a bank letter of credit. Several law firms undertake debt collection, and the U.S. Embassy’s Consular Section can provide a list upon request. There are no credit rating agencies or bureaus in Oman.

For more information about the methods of payment or other trade finance options, please read the Trade Finance Guide.

Banking Systems

Oman’s banking sector consists of 16 licensed local and foreign commercial banks, two specialized banks and eight Islamic commercial banks. Banks are subject to supervision by the Central Bank of Oman, which regulates and licenses private banks, monitors interest rates, and issues development bonds and notes. Oman’s banks are generally well capitalized with low non-performing loan rates.

For more information on the banking system please read the section Capital Markets and Portfolio Investment of the Investment Climate Statement.

Foreign Exchange Controls

The Omani rial is fully convertible and is pegged to the U.S. dollar (OMR 1 = $2.60). There is no restriction on the repatriation of capital from Oman.

U.S. Banks & Local Correspondent Banks

Local banks in Oman maintain U.S correspondents. Bank Muscat has a correspondent banking relationship with J.P. Morgan Chase; National Bank of Oman with Wells Fargo; and Bank Dhofar with Wells Fargo and J.P. Morgan Chase. No U.S. banks operate in Oman, although Citibank remains active in the Omani market through its Dubai office.

For additional information, visit the U.S. Department of State Investment Climate Statements.