OPAZ extends fee reduction for SMEs

MuscatT–T The Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) has approved a decision to extend the 50 per cent reduction of fees for the services provided in the Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD) to SMEs.

The fees reduction period for SMEs will continue until March 20, 2027, according to the decision published in the Official Gazette on Monday.

The decision explained that the 50 per cent reduction of fees for the services provided by OPAZ targets SMEs operating in the special economic zones and free zones, provided that they are wholly-owned by Omanis and registered with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority.

Dr Said bin Khalifa al Tuirshi, in-charge of managing the business development sector at OPAZ, said that this decision comes within the framework of the authority’s effort to create a stimulating investment environment for entrepreneurs.

It will meet the needs of residents, workers and visitors to the special economic zone for various services

DR SAID AL TUIRSHI

“The decision will benefit businesspersons and owners of commercial buildings located within SEZAD as this package of facilities will boost the business and demand for these buildings. Further, it will meet the needs of residents, workers and visitors to the special economic zone for various services,” he said.

Tuirshi said that OPAZ last month issued a decision reducing the registration fees for registration services in the commercial registry and licenses to practice some economic activities, including over 130 activities in SEZAD.