In a clear signal of its commitment to sustainable mobility and future-proofing its infrastructure, Oman has introduced stringent new regulations requiring all newly licensed petrol stations to integrate solar power generation and provide electric vehicle charging points.
This change marks a decisive break from traditional fossil fuel models, signaling the Sultanate’s commitment to sustainable mobility and propelling its ambitious drive towards becoming a green hydrogen powerhouse and a leader in the global transition to low-carbon energy.
Key Highlights
- Significant investments and infrastructure, such as a planned 400km hydrogen pipeline to support Oman’s green hydrogen strategy.
- New regulations make solar power and EV charging mandatory for new fuel station licenses.
- New stations must include mandatory amenities: ATMs, repair shops, prayer rooms, emergency generators, protective shelters, and specific parking.
- Strict licensing includes a mandatory 5km distance between new stations and significant penalties for non-compliance.
- Oman launched its first green hydrogen fueling station near Muscat International Airport in February 2025.
- The inaugural hydrogen station uses solar-powered electrolysis and offers multiple fueling options (hydrogen, EV, conventional).
- Oman plans five of the ten largest upcoming low-carbon hydrogen plants in the Middle East by 2030.
New Framework for service and sustainability
The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion has rolled out a comprehensive framework significantly raising the bar for new fuel station licenses. Moving beyond traditional fuel dispensing, new rules mandate integrating renewable energy and supporting electric mobility.
Under new directives, licenses require the provision of fuel, suitable pumps/tanks, and crucial modern additions. These mandatory facilities now encompass an emergency generator, protective shelters, ATMs, and electric vehicle charging points.
Highlighting the commitment to sustainability, the Ministry stated, “The new stations must also provide infrastructure for solar energy, a vehicle service centre and designated parking spaces for all types of vehicles.” This integrates solar power to reduce reliance on conventional electricity. While hydrogen fueling or other services are allowed, they require prior Ministry approval.
The framework also introduces spatial planning: new stations must be at least five kilometers apart, with areas determined by the Ministry. Stricter enforcement includes clear penalties up to 3,000 Omani riyals and a 500-riyal monthly penalty for expired licenses. Licenses face automatic cancellation for inactivity over six months or for submitting false information.
This overhaul envisions new fuel stations evolving into multi-functional service hubs. Mandatory inclusion of amenities like ATMs, vehicle service centres, emergency generators, protective shelters, prayer rooms, and accessible facilities enhances convenience, positioning stations as vital service points, not just refueling stops.
While Oman has a history rooted in oil production, its clear focus on green hydrogen distinguishes it, positioning it competitively in the global pursuit of net-zero emissions and sustainable economic diversification.
Oman’s first green hydrogen fuel station
Building on this modernization, Oman launched its first green hydrogen fueling station in February 2025. Located near Muscat International Airport, this pioneering facility is a collaboration between Shell Oman, Mwasalat, and Nama Power and Water Procurement. Mwasalat will add 15 hydrogen-powered vehicles, signalling a shift in public transportation.
The station is a tangible step towards emission-free transportation, using solar-powered electrolysis to produce up to 130 kg daily. It offers refueling for hydrogen vehicles alongside conventional fuels and EV fast-charging, showcasing a multi-energy approach.
Eng. Salim Nasser Al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals, said, “The launch of the Sultanate of Oman’s first green hydrogen service station marks a pivotal milestone in our nation’s journey toward sustainability and energy diversification.” The initiative reflects Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tarik’s vision to position Oman as a key player in green hydrogen and a step towards achieving Net Zero by 2050. “By integrating renewable energy, onsite hydrogen production, and advanced mobility solutions, this project demonstrates the potential of hydrogen ecosystems in attracting investment and supporting future technologies.”
Oman emerges as Green Hydrogen powerhouse
Beyond the first station, Oman is rapidly emerging as a dominant force in the Middle East’s green hydrogen sector, leveraging abundant solar/wind resources. An industry report indicates that five of the ten largest upcoming low-carbon hydrogen plants in the region by 2030 will be in Oman.
Key projects include ACME Duqm (497 ktpa, 2028), POSCO Consortium Duqm (220 ktpa, 2030), Amnah Consortium Duqm (215 ktpa, 2028), Fortescue Future Industries Oman (200 ktpa, 2030), and EDF Oman (178 ktpa, 2030). Backed by international consortia, these projects in areas like Duqm aim for major production and export. Planned infrastructure, like a 400km hydrogen pipeline and an expected $8 billion investment, underscores the scale of commitment.
Oman’s strategic location along key global shipping routes, combined with its strong renewable energy potential and proactive government support via Hydrom and bodies like the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ), is attracting significant international investment. While Oman remains a significant oil producer, controlling about 4.5 billion barrels of proven crude deposits and producing nearly 1 million barrels per day last year, its distinct focus on green hydrogen positions it competitively in the global pursuit of net-zero emissions and sustainable economic diversification.
Oman’s integrated strategy—from mandatory green tech at stations to scaling hydrogen production—sets a powerful precedent. This multi-pronged approach aligns with Vision 2040 and Net Zero 2050 goals, underpinning a vital infrastructure push for economic transformation.
