In alignment with Oman's commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion has issued Ministerial Resolution No. 615/2023. This resolution, issued on a Sunday, mandates that all fuel stations in Oman must install electric vehicle (EV) charging points in accordance with the standards established by the Authority for Public Services Regulation (APSR).
This decision reflects Oman's dedication to environmental sustainability, with a primary goal of enhancing services to align with the country's economic standing while elevating the quality of fuel stations to provide comprehensive services to consumers.
Furthermore, the resolution imposes an obligation on fuel marketing companies to ensure that all fuel filling stations offer essential public amenities, including restrooms and other fundamental services. It also requires these facilities to maintain cleanliness during their operational hours.
In cases of non-compliance, the decision outlines a penalty structure. Initial offenders will receive a written warning, followed by an administrative fine of OMR 1,000 for repeated violations. For persistent non-compliance, the fine increases to OMR 3,000.
Notably, the government recently revealed that Oman currently has over 400 electric vehicles (EVs), and efforts are underway to expand the country's charging infrastructure, which currently consists of 100 charging points.
The Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology for Transport has also announced plans to manufacture electric cars within the Special Economic Zone in Duqm.
As of the end of 2022, the number of fuel filling stations across various governorates in the Sultanate of Oman stood at 676. The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion continues its inspection campaigns of these stations to ensure the provision of high-quality services that contribute to showcasing Oman's economic and tourism status across its various governorates.
It's important to note that the regulations for issuing licenses to establish and operate fuel filling stations, as per Ministerial Decision No. 69/2009, emphasize the importance of providing air filling devices, car washing facilities, food stores, and other services. For new fuel filling stations located on highways, these projects must incorporate "integrated stations" that include essential public amenities such as prayer rooms with restrooms for both males and females, a commercial building housing a restaurant or café, a store, public restrooms, and a pharmacy.
Additionally, fuel filling stations should encompass a car wash, an information office, primary mechanical services, parking for both cars and trucks, designated parking for services and activities at the station, and accommodations for disabled individuals.