For decades, business in Oman has been built on trust, handwritten records, and personal connections. Markets and stores have thrived on face-to-face interactions where every purchase carried a story. Today, this familiar way of trade is being reshaped.

Smartphones, social media, and online platforms are introducing a faster, more connected way of doing business. By 2025, the pace of digital change will only grow, and traditional retailers will need to evolve to remain part of this new era.

It’s all about cherishing the past and embracing the digital tools that help you grow, connect, and thrive

Why Oman Must Invest in Digital Transformation

Increasing smartphone penetration, changing consumer behaviors, and the emergence of e-commerce are all driving Oman’s retail sector toward digital transformation.

Here’s why:

Smartphone usage is nearly universal: Over 95% of Omanis own smartphones, and mobile-first behavior dominates shopping decisions.

Social media is the new storefront: Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp are where customers discover, engage, and buy.

Digital payments are booming: With services like Thawani, OmanNet, and Apple Pay, cashless transactions are becoming the norm.

Government support is strong: Oman Vision 2040 emphasizes economic diversification and digital innovation, with initiatives like Invest Easy and COMEX 2025 fueling transformation.

For traditional retailers, this means opportunity. The tools are available. The market is ready. And the time is now.

Here is How Digital Tools Boosted Omani Retailers

Let’s look at how some local businesses are already thriving by going digital:

 Muttrah Souq Artisans

Once dependent on foot traffic, many artisans now sell their products through Instagram Shops and WhatsApp catalogs. One silver jewelry vendor saw a 40% increase in sales after launching a bilingual Instagram page with reels showcasing the craftsmanship behind each piece.

Halwa Makers in Nizwa

Traditional halwa shops are using TikTok to share behind-the-scenes videos of the cooking process. These short clips—rich in cultural pride—have gone viral, attracting orders from across the GCC.

Local Fashion Brands

Labels like Bilarab and Niswa have embraced influencer marketing, collaborating with Omani content creators to showcase their collections. Their online stores now generate more revenue than their physical outlets.

Tourism Ministry’s #OmanByYou Campaign

Oman’s Ministry of Heritage & Tourism’s #OmanByYou campaign is a creative example worth noting: by leveraging user-generated content from locals and tourists, the initiative showcased authentic experiences of Oman. This social media strategy led to over 65,000 new Instagram followers, 4,500+ posts, and significant cost savings, boosting brand visibility and engagement on a global scale.

These stories prove that digital tools aren’t just for big brands—they’re for every Omani business ready to grow.

What are the challenges slowing Omani retailers’ shift to digital

Despite the success stories, many traditional retailers in Oman still hesitate. Common concerns include:

“I don’t know how to use technology.”

“My customers prefer in-person shopping.”

“It’s too expensive to go online.”

These fears are valid—but they’re also solvable.

Digital transformation doesn’t mean replacing your values. It means enhancing them. You can still greet customers with warmth, showcase your heritage, and build trust—just through new channels.

And with the right partner, going digital is easier and more affordable than you think.

Conclusion:

The future of Omani retail lies in blending tradition with innovation. Digital marketing in Oman isn’t just a trend—it’s a powerful way to reach new customers, tell your story, and grow your business without losing your heritage. Whether you’re an artisan in Muttrah, a halwa maker in Nizwa, or a local fashion brand, the tools to thrive are ready and accessible.

Let Digivents Help You Go Digital

At Digivents, we specialize in helping Omani retailers transition from souq to screen—without losing their identity. We understand the local market, the cultural nuances, and the challenges you face.

Here’s what we offer:

✅ Social media setup and strategy

✅ E-commerce website development

✅ WhatsApp Business campaigns

✅ Influencer partnerships

✅ Arabic and bilingual content creation

✅ Seasonal campaign planning

✅ Training and support for your team

 

🎁 Get a free consultation today and discover how we can boost your online presence. With our strategies, your website ranking and visibility can improve within 6 months.