Duqm is a Special Economic Zone on Oman’s central coast in Al Wusta Governorate, built around one of the region’s largest deep-water ports and a major refinery and industrial complex. It’s a strategic, government-backed investment destination rather than a leisure resort, with a residential and investment framework administered separately from Muscat’s tourism-focused ITCs.
What Is Duqm?
Duqm sits roughly 550km south of Muscat on Oman’s central coast, developed as the Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD) — one of the largest economic zones in the Middle East by land area. The zone centres on the Port of Duqm, the Duqm Refinery and petrochemical complex, a dry dock, and an international airport, with residential and commercial development growing alongside the industrial and logistics infrastructure.
Why Investors Look At Duqm
- One of the region’s largest deep-water ports, positioned on major East-West shipping routes
- A dedicated Special Economic Zone Authority (SEZAD) overseeing investment and ownership rules
- Major industrial anchor tenants, including the Duqm Refinery and petrochemical complex
- Government-backed infrastructure investment as part of Oman’s long-term economic diversification
Property In Duqm
Duqm’s real estate market is younger and more investment-and-workforce driven than Oman’s established coastal ITCs, with ownership terms for foreign buyers governed by SEZAD’s own regulatory framework rather than the Royal Decree that covers Muscat’s tourism ITCs. See our current Duqm listings, and speak with our team to confirm the specific ownership structure, freehold eligibility, and Golden Residency qualification for any unit before committing.
Investing In Duqm
Oman does not levy annual property tax anywhere in the country, including Duqm. For buyers considering the Special Economic Zone as part of a wider Oman portfolio, our team can walk through how a Duqm purchase compares with freehold ITCs like Al Mouj or Jabal Sifah, and whether it fits Oman’s Golden Residency route covered in our residency guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where Is Duqm Located?
Duqm sits on Oman’s central coast in Al Wusta Governorate, around 550km south of Muscat.
What Makes Duqm Different From Muscat’s ITCs?
Duqm is a Special Economic Zone centred on a deep-water port and industrial complex, with its own SEZAD-administered investment framework, rather than a leisure-focused tourism community.
Interested in Duqm as part of a wider Oman investment strategy? Get in touch with our team to discuss current availability and ownership terms.