As set out in a formal announcement, On October 29, 2026, Saleh Alrawahi, Head of Mission of the Sultanate of Oman to Australia, participated in the International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC) in Sydney. Oman was represented by a dedicated pavilion organized by the Ministry of Energy and Minerals, with the participation of Omani private sector companies. The statement does not mention the specific outcomes of the conference, nor does it detail the composition of the Omani companies involved. This is an unofficial English version of an Arabic report. To view the official Arabic text, click here.
Context
Alrawahi’s attendance at IMARC represents an ongoing effort by the Omani government to diversify its economy beyond hydrocarbons. The Ministry of Energy and Minerals’ establishment of a dedicated pavilion signifies a deliberate strategy to attract international investment and expertise within the nation’s burgeoning mineral sector. The inclusion of Omani private sector companies highlights a push to leverage domestic capabilities alongside foreign partnerships. The statement does not address the current state of Oman’s mineral reserves or the scale of planned mining projects. It also does not mention any specific investment targets or collaborative agreements anticipated from the conference.
Previous statements by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs demonstrate a sustained focus on diplomatic engagement with Australia. In October 2026, the Ministry hosted a reception for Ambassadors and heads of missions accredited to Hungary (Source: https://www.fm.gov.om/en/59572/). Prior to this, in October 2026, Alrawahi met with Hassan Moussa, Chief Executive Officer of Arab Council Australia (Source: https://www.fm.gov.om/en/61002/). These engagements underscore a prioritized approach to building bilateral relations, particularly within the context of regional economic development and strategic partnerships. The statement does not mention any specific discussions held during Alrawahi’s time at IMARC.
What to Watch
Should the visit yield positive feedback on Oman’s mineral sector investment opportunities, the Ministry of Energy and Minerals will likely pursue further bilateral discussions with Australian companies and government agencies. If the engagement proves fruitful, the statement does not mention any anticipated follow-up meetings or formal agreements. The Ministry’s continued participation in international mining conferences, as demonstrated by Alrawahi’s presence at IMARC, suggests a long-term strategy of proactive engagement. The statement does not address the potential impact of increased Australian investment on Oman’s regulatory framework or environmental sustainability standards.
