Investing in Oman can be influenced by various factors, including market demand, economic trends, and regulatory considerations. As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, some types of shops that may be considered relatively safe for investment in Oman include:

1. Grocery Stores:  Essential goods, including groceries, are consistently in demand.

2. Pharmacies:  Health and wellness-related businesses, such as pharmacies, tend to have stable demand.

3. Clothing Retail: Fashion and apparel, especially modest and traditional clothing, are popular in Oman.

4. Electronics and Appliances: With the increasing use of technology, shops selling electronics and appliances may find a stable market.

5. Food and Beverage Outlets: Restaurants, cafes, and eateries catering to local tastes and international cuisine can be successful.

6. Car Accessories and Services: Given the importance of transportation, shops offering car accessories and services may have a steady customer base.

7. Home Furnishings: With ongoing construction and housing projects, shops selling home furnishings and decor may find opportunities.

8. Beauty and Personal Care: Beauty products, cosmetics, and personal care items are in demand.

9. Health and Fitness: Gyms, fitness centers, and shops selling health-related products can attract customers.

10. Children's Products: Shops specializing in children's clothing, toys, and educational products may be well-received.

Before investing, it's crucial to conduct thorough market research, understand local regulations, and consider the specific needs and preferences of the Omani market. Consulting with local business experts and authorities can provide valuable insights into the most viable investment opportunities. Keep in mind that economic conditions and consumer preferences can evolve, so staying informed about market trends is essential.

As of  January 2022, Oman has been actively working on diversifying its economy, and manufacturing is a significant sector. Here are some of the top manufacturing businesses in Oman:

1. Petrochemicals and Chemicals:

   • Oman is known for its petrochemical industry, producing chemicals and plastics.

2. Steel and Metal Products:

   • Steel manufacturing and the production of metal products are prominent in Oman.

3. Construction Materials:

   • Manufacturing of construction materials, including cement and building products, is a key industry.

4. Food and Beverage Processing:

   • Oman has a growing food and beverage processing sector, including dairy and food products.

5. Automotive Assembly:

   • Automotive assembly and manufacturing of parts contribute to the manufacturing landscape.

6. Textiles and Apparel:

   • The textile and apparel industry is developing, with the production of garments and fabrics.

7. Plastics and Packaging:

   • Manufacturing of plastic products and packaging materials is a significant sector.

8. Pharmaceuticals:

   • Oman has pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities producing medicines and healthcare products.

9. Electronics and Electrical Equipment:

   • Production of electronic components and electrical equipment is part of Oman's manufacturing sector.

10. Furniture and Wood Products:

    • Manufacturing of furniture and wood products contributes to the economy.

It's important to note that the economic landscape can change, and new industries may emerge over time. Additionally, the success of manufacturing businesses may depend on factors such as market demand, innovation, and government initiatives. For the most current and detailed information, it's advisable to refer to recent industry reports and updates specific to Oman's manufacturing sector.

Investing in service businesses in Oman can be a promising venture, and opportunities exist across various sectors. Here are some service business ideas that individuals or entrepreneurs may consider for investment in Oman:

1. Consultancy Services:

   • Business Consultancy
   • Management consulting
   • Financial advisory services

2. Information Technology (IT) Services:

   • Software development
   • IT consulting
   • Cybersecurity services

3. Healthcare Services:

   • Medical clinics
   • Telemedicine services
   • Wellness and preventive care services

4. Education and Training:

   • Language schools
   • Professional training and development
   • Educational consulting services

5. Tourism and Hospitality Services:

   • Travel agencies
   • Tour guiding services
   • Hospitality consulting

6. Event Management:

   • Event planning and coordination
   • Exhibition and conference management

7. Real Estate Services:

   • Property management
   • Real estate consultancy
   • Facilities management

8. Financial Services:

   • Accounting and bookkeeping
   • Financial planning services
   • Fintech solutions

9. Marketing and Advertising:

   • Digital marketing agencies
   • Advertising and branding services
   • Market research

10. Logistics and Transportation:

    • Freight and logistics services
    • Transportation and delivery services
    • Customs clearance and brokerage

11. Environmental and Sustainability Services:

    • Environmental consultancy
    • Sustainable business practices consulting
    • Renewable energy services

12. Fitness and Wellness Services:

    • Fitness centers and gyms
    • Wellness Coaching
    • Nutritional consulting

Before investing, it's crucial to conduct thorough market research, understand local regulations, and evaluate the specific needs of the Omani market. Additionally, consulting with local business experts and authorities can provide valuable insights into the viability of different service business opportunities. Keep in mind that economic conditions and consumer preferences can evolve, so staying informed about market trends is essential.

As of the last update, some professions that are frequently sought after in Oman include:

1. Oil and Gas Industry Professionals: Engineers, technicians, and skilled workers in the oil and gas sector are in demand due to Oman's significant hydrocarbon industry.

2. Healthcare Professionals: Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals are consistently sought after to meet the country's healthcare needs.

3. Information Technology (IT) Specialists: With the growing emphasis on technology, there is a demand for IT professionals and experts in areas like software development, cybersecurity, and network administration.

4. Engineering Professionals: Civil, electrical, and mechanical engineers are needed for various infrastructure and construction projects.

5. Teaching and Education Professionals: Qualified educators, particularly those with expertise in STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), are in demand.

6. Finance and Accounting Professionals: Accountants, financial analysts, and professionals with expertise in finance and accounting are sought after in the business sector.

7. Hospitality and Tourism Professionals: With Oman's focus on developing its tourism industry, there is a demand for professionals in hospitality, tourism management, and related fields.

8. Skilled Tradespeople: Skilled workers in trades such as welding, plumbing, and construction are often needed for ongoing infrastructure projects.

Keep in mind that labor market demands can evolve, and it's advisable to check the most recent job market reports and updates for the latest information on in-demand professions in Oman.

January 2022, the most sellable products in the Omani market can vary based on consumer demand, economic trends, and other factors. However, some products that tend to have consistent demand in Oman include:

1. Food and Beverages: Including staple foods, fresh produce, snacks, and beverages.

2. Electronics and Gadgets: Such as smartphones, laptops, and other consumer electronics.

3. Clothing and Apparel: Including both traditional and modern clothing.

4. Home and Kitchen Appliances: Such as kitchenware, home decor, and appliances.

5. Health and Beauty Products: Including cosmetics, skincare, and personal care items.

6. Automotive Products: Such as spare parts, accessories, and vehicles.

7. Construction Materials: Given the ongoing construction projects in Oman, there is a demand for construction materials.

8. Medical and Pharmaceutical Products: Including medicines and healthcare products.

It's important to conduct thorough market research to identify specific product niches and opportunities. Additionally, the popularity of products may change over time, so staying updated on market trends is essential. For the most current and detailed information, consulting local market reports and industry analyses is recommended.

Aso of January 2022, providing specific average profit margins for various business sectors in Oman can be challenging due to the dynamic nature of industries, changing economic conditions, and individual company performance. Profit margins can vary widely based on factors such as the type of business, industry competition, operational efficiency, and market demand.

Rough estimates and can vary:

• Oil and Gas Average Profit Margin Range: 10% - 20%

• Tourism and Hospitality Average Profit Margin Range: 5% - 15%

• Manufacturing (including petrochemicals) Average Profit Margin Range: 5% - 15%

• Construction and Real Estate Average Profit Margin Range: 8% - 20%

• Services (including finance, IT, and consulting) Average Profit Margin Range: 10% - 25%

• Agriculture and Fisheries Average Profit Margin Range: 10% - 20%

• Mining and Minerals Average Profit Margin Range: 10% - 25%

• Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals Average Profit Margin Range: 15% - 25%

• Education and Training Average Profit Margin Range: 10% - 20%

• Retail and Consumer Goods Average Profit Margin Range: 3% - 10%

• Restaurants Average Profit Margin Range: 5% - 15%

• Grocery Stores Average Profit Margin Range: 3% - 10%

Please note that these figures are general estimates and actual profit margins may vary based on specific business circumstances and market dynamics.

Oman's major imports and exports in a table:

Import Category Approximate Percentage of Total Imports:

1. Machinery and Equipment 20% - 25%, 
2. Transportation Equipment 15% - 20%, 
3. Chemicals and Chemical Products 10% - 15%, 
4. Mineral Fuels and Oils 10% - 15%, 
5. Electrical Machinery and Equipment 5% - 10%, 
6. Metals (Iron and Steel) 5% - 10%,  
7. Plastics and Plastic Products 5% - 10%, 
8. Textiles and Apparel 5% - 10%

Export Category Approximate Percentage of Total Exports:

1. Oil and Gas Products 80% - 85%, 
2. Minerals (Copper, etc.) 5% - 10%, 
3. Fish and Seafood 3% - 5%, 
4. Dates 1% - 3%, Chemicals and Petrochemicals 1% - 3%, 
5. Textiles and Apparel 1% - 2%, 
6. Metals (e.g., Aluminum) 1% - 2%

Please note that these percentages are approximate and can vary based on market conditions, economic factors, and changes in Oman's trade composition. For the most accurate and current information, it is advisable to refer to the latest trade statistics or official reports from Omani authorities.