🇴🇲 Oman’s Broad Money Supply Surges 12.7% as High Oil Prices Fuel Economic Expansion

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Key Takeaways

• Broad money supply in Oman grew by 12.7% to OMR28.6 billion, according to the Times of Oman on July 25, 2026.
• Oman’s economy is forecast to expand by 3.7% in GDP, supported by high oil prices, as reported by Economy Middle East on July 23, 2026.
• Bank loans in Oman grew by 5%, driven by the resilient banking sector, per Economy Middle East on July 23, 2026.
• The “orange economy” — creative and cultural industries — is a key engine for growth in Oman, according to Zawya on July 23, 2026.
• Oman’s banking sector remains resilient amid strong oil revenues, Economy Middle East reported on July 23, 2026.

The Data

MUSCAT — Oman’s broad money supply jumped 12.7% to OMR28.6 billion, the Times of Oman reported on July 25, 2026. The surge reflects strong liquidity in the economy, fueled by high oil prices and steady credit growth.

The National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) tracks inflation data for Oman. Headline inflation has remained moderate, supported by stable food and energy prices. Core inflation — excluding volatile items — has stayed contained as the central bank maintains a cautious stance.

The Central Bank of Oman (CBO) sets the policy rate for the Omani rial. The bank’s next rate decision date has not been announced. The CBO’s current policy stance focuses on supporting economic growth while keeping inflation in check.

Oman’s economy is expected to grow by 3.7% in GDP, according to Economy Middle East on July 23, 2026. High oil prices are the main driver, boosting government revenues and spending across sectors. The banking sector has supported this growth with a 5% increase in loans.

Labour market data for Oman was not available in the provided reports. The NCSI typically releases employment figures on a quarterly basis.

Orange Economy Emerges as Growth Driver

Oman is betting on the “orange economy” — creative industries like arts, media, and design — as a key growth engine, experts told Zawya on July 23, 2026. Muscat Daily also highlighted this trend on July 22, 2026. The sector is seen as a way to diversify away from oil dependence.

Government initiatives are supporting startups and small businesses in creative fields. The strategy aims to create jobs and boost non-oil exports, aligning with Oman’s Vision 2040 economic plan.

What This Means

For households, the growing money supply and economic expansion signal stable job prospects and steady incomes. However, if inflation picks up, the cost of living could rise. Mortgage rates are tied to central bank policy, which remains steady for now.

For businesses, the 5% loan growth shows banks are willing to lend, supporting investment. Borrowing costs are manageable, and high oil prices provide a buffer for government contracts and infrastructure spending. The orange economy offers new opportunities for entrepreneurs.

Outlook

Oman’s economy is set to benefit from continued high oil prices in the near term. The next major data releases will include quarterly GDP figures from the NCSI and any policy updates from the Central Bank of Oman.

Analysts expect the banking sector to remain resilient, with loan growth continuing at a moderate pace. The orange economy is likely to attract more investment as the government pushes diversification. Key risks include a drop in oil prices or global economic slowdown.

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Data sourced from National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) and Central Bank of Oman (CBO). Analysis by Economic Pulse Data Team.

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Edited by Editorial Desk. Fact-checked by Editorial Desk. This is analysis, not financial advice.