Sohar: Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) has commenced preparations for the second edition of Sohar Investment Forum 2026, hosting an inaugural coordination meeting ahead of the event scheduled for 4-5 February 2026, in Sohar, North Al Batinah Governorate.
According to Oman News Agency, the forum will operate under the theme ‘Sohar: The Industrial Investment Destination,’ reinforcing the zone’s strategic position within Oman’s economic development framework. The preliminary meeting, led by the Chamber’s North Al Batinah branch, forms part of comprehensive efforts to position Oman as a premier investment destination while highlighting the governorate’s crucial role in driving industrial transformation and sustainable economic development aligned with Oman Vision 2040.
Faisal bin Abdullah Al Rowas, OCCI Chairman, emphasized the forum’s significance in advancing Oman’s profile for regional and international investment. ‘The forum underscores North Al Batinah’s competitive advantages, including strategic location, advanced infrastructure, established industrial zones, and growing logistics capabilities,’ Al Rowas stated.
Eng. Said bin Ali Al Abri, Head of the Forum’s Organizing Committee, presented the event’s strategic framework, identifying key industrial sectors including heavy industry support services, iron and steel, aluminum, plastics, and high-value food and medical manufacturing. The committee is coordinating with government entities to identify ready-to-market investment opportunities for presentation during the forum.
The inaugural 2024 forum demonstrated substantial economic impact, attracting over 800 participants and showcasing 104 investment opportunities exceeding RO one billion in value. The event facilitated 14 cooperation agreements valued at more than RO 115 million, establishing itself as a significant platform connecting local and international investors while reinforcing North Al Batinah’s position as an advanced industrial hub.
The 2026 edition at Sohar’s Majan Hall will feature expanded participation from government institutions, private sector representatives, and international investors. The program will incorporate dialogue sessions, interactive presentations, specialized workshops, and an exhibition highlighting advances in industrial technology and sustainable development.
Discussion sessions during the preparatory meeting addressed implementation progress of projects announced in the previous edition and identified new industrial investment opportunities. Organizers emphasized early preparation and enhanced inter-agency coordination to overcome previous challenges and ensure integrated implementation of forum objectives.
The meeting gathered senior officials including Faisal bin Abdullah Al Rowas, OCCI Chairman, Dr. Juma bin Ahmed Al Kaabi, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Bahrain to Oman, along with embassy representatives, government and private sector delegates, Chamber board members, and prominent business investors.