Oman is a middle-income country in the Gulf region with notable oil and gas resources, a substantial trade surplus, and low inflation. As in most Gulf countries, hydrocarbons form the most important sector in Omani economy, with crude oil accounting for over 25% of GDP in real terms. This proportion is now in gradual decline as oil output has been falling sharply since 2001. With Oman’s depleting oil wealth, the role of manufacturing units and industries assumes greater importance in sustaining the country’s economy.

The statistical register of business units plays a crucial role in economic statistics in general and in industrial statistics in particular. It not only serves as a framework for regular data collection but also provides important information on business demography. The development of a such a register is important for the construction of reliable industrial statistics and is a major element contributing to the industrial development of a country.