Celebrating 100 years since the discovery of oil and gas in Oman

The Ministry of Energy and Minerals held an event to mark the centenary of the discovery of oil and gas in Oman, under the patronage of Sayyid Shihab bin Tarik Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for Defence Affairs.

The celebration, at the Royal Opera House Muscat, highlighted key historical milestones in the energy sector since the signing of the first exploration concession document in 1925, and the major transformations that followed. These contributed to building the national economy and establishing an integrated infrastructure for the oil and gas industry, The event also looked ahead to Oman’s future directions in renewable energy and green hydrogen.

The event included the unveiling of a commemorative postage stamp marking 100 years of the oil and gas journey in Oman, documenting this national milestone and showcasing the value of the sector and its enduring role in supporting development and the national economy.

The issue of the stamp serves as a documentary symbol with historical significance, reflecting a century-long journey of transformation and achievement. It forms an archival addition that commemorates this occasion and acquaints future generations with key milestones in Oman’s energy sector.

The oil and gas sector has played a central role in strengthening the foundations of the national economy and driving cultural and social progress in Oman. It has been a primary source of public revenue and a driver of development, enabling the expansion of investment, infrastructure and services. Its impact has gone far beyond production and export, becoming a catalyst for many sectors directly linked to economic growth such as transport, industry, communications, trade, investment and logistics. It has also provided financial returns and diverse contributions, including taxes and fees, that enhance the state’s ability to implement its development programmes.

In terms of sustainable development, the sector has made a strong social and economic contribution through social responsibility initiatives, support for community projects and improvements to the quality of life. It has also been a key enabler of education, innovation and knowledge through its support for universities, colleges, scientific research, teaching and training, strengthening the knowledge economy and improving the competitiveness of human resources.

Developing and qualifying national talent has remained a constant priority for the sector through training, employment, localisation programmes and building specialised expertise. This reflects a vision centred on equipping local competencies with knowledge and experience and preparing individuals able to manage resources using modern approaches in a way that ensures optimal use of natural wealth and the sustainability of its benefits for future generations.

As part of the centenary celebrations, an exhibition marking 100 years since the discovery of oil and gas in Oman will be open to visitors until December 10, 2025. It uses documentary and visual content to tell the story of the sector’s development over an entire century.

The exhibition includes a section displaying models and samples related to the oil and gas sector, a section exhibiting four portraits of the Sultans and a section with ten historical documents recording pivotal moments in the sector’s evolution. It also includes 100 infographic images, along with a dedicated infographic honouring those who worked in the oil and gas sector, including ministers, senior officials, advisers and chief executives. The exhibition also presents a historical timeline of Oman's oil and gas journey across two periods: 1925–1970 and 1970–2025, highlighting the most significant eras and projects in a chronological sequence that spans a full century of development.

This is an unofficial English version of an Arabic report. To view the official Arabic text, click here.