Oman Boosts Handicraft Sector with RO3 Million Support Initiative

Handicraft Sector in Oman Grows with RO3 Million SME Support

Muscat:  The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) continues its efforts to support and develop the handicrafts sector in the Sultanate of Oman through the Handicrafts Support Initiative.

The initiative aims to empower craftsmen and handicraft enterprises while enhancing the sustainability of the sector, which is closely linked to cultural identity and the national economy.

It offers a range of support, including funding for workshop preparation and maintenance, marketing and packaging assistance, participation in exhibitions, training programmes, and support for purchasing machinery and raw materials to improve production efficiency and product quality.

The Authority stated that the initiative targets individual craftsmen holding home-based activity licenses, as well as craft establishments registered with licensed commercial activities, in accordance with approved regulations.

Applicants are required to meet specific criteria, including registration with the Authority, obtaining relevant licenses and not having received similar support خلال the past two years, in addition to having suitable premises for conducting the activity.

The Authority has also issued a detailed guide outlining application procedures and requirements to facilitate the submission process.

The initiative covers a wide range of activities, including 16 home-based crafts and 20 commercial craft activities such as Omani daggers, silverware, palm products, perfumes, textiles, pottery, leather, wood and metal industries.

Between 2022 and 2025, the number of beneficiaries reached 2,995, with total approved funding exceeding RO 3 million, reflecting growing interest in the handicrafts sector and the initiative’s role in supporting its development.