Oman issues over 527,000 driving licenses in 2025, road network expands

Oman saw a substantial issuance of new and renewed vehicle driving licenses in 2025, with the total number reaching approximately 527,830. This figure represents an increase from 500,738 licenses issued in 2024 and a significant jump from 338,990 in 2021. Of the total licenses issued last year, 136,491 were new, while 391,339 were renewals.

Analysis of the license holders reveals that expatriates obtained a larger portion of these permits, accounting for 300,112 licenses, compared to 227,718 licenses issued to Omani citizens. This indicates a higher demand for driving privileges among the non-national population in Oman.

In parallel with the growth in driving licenses, Oman's infrastructure has also seen considerable development. The Sultanate's paved road network expanded significantly over the past five years, reaching a total length of 45,659 kilometers by the end of 2025. This is an increase from 40,546 kilometers recorded in 2021.

The data, sourced from the 2026 Statistical Yearbook by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI), further breaks down the road network. Single roads constitute the vast majority at 41,478 kilometers, while dual roads extend for 4,182 kilometers. The total length of paved roads was reported at 44,079 kilometers by the end of 2025.

At the governorate level, Al Dakhiliyah leads in paved road infrastructure with 480 kilometers. Muscat follows with 425 kilometers, and Al Dhahirah has 120 kilometers. For single roads specifically, Dhofar governorate ranks first with 383 kilometers, followed by North Al Sharqiyah with 263 kilometers and South Al Batinah with 260 kilometers.