OCCI’s franchise programme to empower Omani SMEs

MUSCAT, DEC 16

The Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) has launched the third edition of its highly successful Franchise Programme, an initiative designed to empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and drive economic diversification in Oman. Held under the auspices of HH Sayyid Dr Kamil bin Fahd bin Mahmood al Said, Secretary-General of the General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers, the event was attended by OCCI board members, key officials and leaders from Oman’s private sector.

The Franchise Programme aims to support local businesses by introducing franchising as a sustainable and scalable business model, aligning with the goals of Oman Vision 2040. Through workshops, consultations and partnerships, the Programme equips entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools to develop their businesses, access new markets and foster innovation. By enabling SMEs to adopt proven business models, the initiative helps create sustainable job opportunities, diversify the economy and increase Oman’s contribution to global markets.

Shaikh Faisal bin Abdullah al Rawas, Chairman of Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), underscored the importance of the Programme, saying: “The Franchise Programme is a flagship initiative of OCCI that empowers Oman’s private sector by providing entrepreneurs with the tools and strategies to succeed in a competitive market. By promoting franchising as a business model, the Programme supports economic diversification and strengthens Omani businesses in line with Oman Vision 2040.”

Since its launch, the Franchise Programme has achieved significant milestones. The first edition reached nine governorates and introduced franchising to 311 entrepreneurs, resulting in six companies advancing to the final development stage. The second edition provided specialised training to 155 participants across Muscat Governorate, Al Batinah North Governorate and Dhofar Governorate, which led to six franchise agreements that supported scalability and new partnerships. The latest edition expanded its reach nationwide, registering 454 brands, of which 56 met eligibility criteria. This phase facilitated 23 franchise development agreements and 16 franchise granting agreements, a significant leap for Omani businesses seeking growth.

Eng Hamoud bin Salem al Saadi, Second Vice Chairman of OCCI and Chair of the Franchise Programme Initiative, highlighted the success of the Programme: “Over the last three editions, the Franchise Programme has helped Omani entrepreneurs embrace franchising opportunities and expand their businesses regionally and globally. The overwhelming response to the third edition, with over 450 registrations, reflects the growing recognition of franchising as a key driver for private sector growth.”

The Programme has also been instrumental in nurturing local brands. Companies like Froz by Jebel Al Jaleed United, Seven Fries by Al-Salih for Ideal Projects and Perf by Happy Ice Cream are standout success stories that have leveraged the Programme to establish strong franchise systems and expand their operations. The third edition celebrated six Omani companies, including Froz, Steam Room by Taqdeer Advanced Company and Seven Fries, for meeting all franchise requirements.

The Franchise Programme’s influence extends beyond facilitating agreements. It also builds awareness about franchising as a pathway to sustainable growth, enhances legal and operational frameworks and supports businesses in developing innovative models tailored to local and international markets. These efforts align with Oman Vision 2040 focus on economic resilience and private-sector leadership.

The launch event also included workshops and expert presentations. Eng Umayyah bint Khamis al Riyamiyah, Director of the Entrepreneurship and Franchise Centre at OCCI, emphasised the importance of equipping participants with knowledge on franchising essentials, including intellectual property rights, trademark registration and building strong franchisor-franchisee relationships.

Aisha bint Said al Balushiyah, Trademark Examiner at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, presented on the critical role of trademark registration, while Khalfan bin Said al Khatri, Assistant Director of Marketing and Events at the Authority for SMEs, shared strategies for sustaining franchise projects through marketing and innovation.

Eng Hamoud bin Salem al Saadi, Second Vice Chairman of the OCCI Board of Directors, Chairman of the OCCI Branch in Al Batinah South Governorate, added that the third edition has successfully qualified 23 Omani projects selected through specific mechanisms and criteria.

He stated: ”Today, we celebrate the signing of 16 franchise granting agreements, including four agreements involving the sale of franchise rights to international brands.”

Al Saadi also noted that initial indicators reveal that over 450 companies have registered to receive consultations and training. The Programme, which has already commenced, will include visits to 11 governorates across the Sultanate Oman, starting in Muscat Governorate. These visits will continue over the coming months, with the training workshops expected to conclude and the qualification process finalised by the end of April.

He outlined that the process of qualifying companies has been divided into multiple phases. As of today, six companies have been qualified and the process will continue until the end of April to select companies eligible to receive the Franchise Guide. This guide provides operational, legal, financial and marketing frameworks to ensure the success and growth of these businesses.