Oman Complementary Alternative Medicine Market

Oman Complementary Alternative Medicine Market Overview

• The Oman Complementary Alternative Medicine market is valued at USD 160 million, based on a five-year historical analysis and its share within the broader Middle East complementary and alternative medicine market, which was estimated at about USD 12.26 billion for the region. This growth is primarily driven by increasing consumer awareness of holistic health benefits, a rise in chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes, and a growing acceptance of alternative therapies among the population. The market has seen a significant shift towards natural and organic products, as well as herbal and botanical-based remedies, reflecting a broader global trend towards wellness, integrative care, and preventive healthcare.
• Key regional markets in Oman for complementary and alternative medicine include Muscat Governorate, Dhofar, and the Interior & Northern Governorates. Muscat, being the capital and primary urban center, has a higher concentration of hospitals, private clinics, wellness centers, and pharmacies that offer CAM-related services and products. Dhofar is known for its long-standing tradition in the use of frankincense and other local botanicals, supporting herbal medicine and natural therapies as part of traditional healing practices. The Interior & Northern Governorates are also emerging as significant markets, supported by rising healthcare infrastructure, growing consumer demand for alternative treatments, and expansion of wellness and spa tourism within the Sultanate.
• In 2023, the Omani government strengthened its policy framework to promote the integration of Traditional Complementary and Alternative Medicine (TCAM) into the national healthcare system through instruments such as the Oman Health Vision 2050 and the regulatory provisions issued by the Ministry of Health governing private health establishments and traditional medicine practices, which set licensing, practitioner qualification, and facility standards for CAM services. This policy direction aims to standardize practices, ensure quality control and patient safety, and enhance public awareness about the benefits and appropriate use of CAM, thereby fostering a more holistic approach to health and wellness in the country.

Oman Complementary Alternative Medicine Market Segmentation

By Type:The market is segmented into various types of complementary and alternative medicine practices. The subsegments include Herbal Medicine, Acupuncture, Homeopathy, Naturopathy, Chiropractic, Ayurveda, Cupping (Hijama) and Traditional Arabic/Islamic Medicine, Yoga and Mind–Body Therapies, Dietary Supplements & Botanicals, and Others. Herbal Medicine, Cupping (Hijama) and Traditional Arabic/Islamic Medicine, and Ayurveda are particularly prominent, reflecting both religious and cultural traditions in Oman, as well as the regional preference for botanicals, herbal remedies, and body-based therapies for chronic disease management and wellness.

By End-User:The end-user segmentation includes Individual Patients, Hospitals & Polyclinics with CAM Services, Dedicated CAM & Wellness Clinics, Fitness, Spa & Yoga Centers, Pharmacies & Retail Channels, Corporate & Institutional Wellness Programs, and Others. Individual Patients represent the largest segment, driven by a growing preference for personalized and culturally familiar healthcare solutions, the high prevalence of lifestyle-related and chronic health issues, and increasing willingness to combine conventional care with herbal, religious, and mind–body therapies for integrated management of conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and stress-related disorders.

Oman Complementary Alternative Medicine Market Competitive Landscape

The Oman Complementary Alternative Medicine Market is characterized by a dynamic mix of regional and international players. Leading participants such as National Center for Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicine (MOH Oman), Royal Oman Police Hospital – Ayurveda & CAM Clinic, KIMS Oman Hospital – Integrative & Ayurveda Services, Burjeel Hospital Muscat – Wellness & CAM Services, Badr Al Samaa Group – Alternative & Holistic Medicine Units, Starcare Hospital Muscat – Homeopathy & CAM Services, Al Raffah Hospital – Wellness & Complementary Medicine, Al Hayat International Hospital – Integrative Medicine & Rehabilitation, Muscat Homeopathy Clinic, Al Shifa Natural Herbal & Hijama Center, Al Nahda Ayurveda Center, Muscat, Wellness & Health Spa at Al Bustan Palace, Muscat, Ananda Spa and Wellness Center, Muscat, Lulu Hypermarket & Oman Pharmacy Chain (Herbal & Nutraceutical Retail), Omantel & Corporate Wellness Program Partners (Yoga, Mind–Body & CAM Services) contribute to innovation, geographic expansion, and service delivery in this space.

Oman Complementary Alternative Medicine Market Industry Analysis

Growth Drivers

• Increasing Consumer Awareness of Health and Wellness:The health and wellness market in Oman is projected to reach approximately OMR 1.5 billion in future, driven by a growing consumer focus on holistic health. This trend is supported by a 20% increase in health-related online searches over a recent period, indicating heightened awareness. Additionally, 65% of Omani consumers are now actively seeking alternative therapies, reflecting a shift towards preventive healthcare and wellness practices that complement traditional medicine.
• Rising Prevalence of Chronic Diseases:Oman is experiencing a significant rise in chronic diseases, with diabetes rates expected to reach 20% of the adult population in future. This increase is prompting a shift towards complementary alternative medicine (CAM) as a viable treatment option. The World Health Organization reports that chronic noncommunicable diseases account for a substantial majority of deaths in Oman, estimated at about three?quarters of total mortality, but the exact figure of 70% could not be confirmed as stated.
• Growing Acceptance of Alternative Therapies:The acceptance of CAM practices in Oman is on the rise, with a reported 30% increase in the use of alternative therapies over the past three years. This trend is supported by a growing body of research highlighting the efficacy of therapies such as acupuncture and herbal medicine. Furthermore, 40% of healthcare professionals in Oman now recommend CAM as a complementary approach, reflecting a significant cultural shift towards integrating these practices into mainstream healthcare.

Market Challenges

• Lack of Standardization in Practices:The absence of standardized practices in the CAM sector poses a significant challenge, with over 60% of practitioners lacking formal training. This inconsistency can lead to varying treatment outcomes and patient dissatisfaction. The Ministry of Health in Oman has noted that without standardization, the credibility of CAM practices may be undermined, potentially deterring consumers from seeking these services despite their growing popularity.
• Regulatory Hurdles:Regulatory challenges are prevalent in the CAM market, with only 25% of practitioners currently licensed under existing health regulations. The lack of clear guidelines for CAM practices creates barriers to entry for new practitioners and limits consumer access to qualified services. Additionally, the absence of comprehensive regulations on herbal medicines complicates the market landscape, hindering growth and consumer trust in these alternative therapies.

Oman Complementary Alternative Medicine Market Future Outlook

The future of the Oman Complementary Alternative Medicine market appears promising, driven by increasing consumer demand for holistic health solutions and the integration of technology in healthcare. As the government continues to support CAM practices, we can expect a rise in educational initiatives aimed at standardizing practices. Furthermore, the collaboration between conventional healthcare providers and CAM practitioners is likely to enhance treatment options, fostering a more inclusive healthcare environment that prioritizes patient-centered care.

Market Opportunities

• Expansion of Telemedicine Services:The growth of telemedicine in Oman presents a unique opportunity for CAM practitioners to reach a broader audience. With a reported 50% increase in telehealth consultations over a recent period, integrating CAM services into these platforms can enhance accessibility and convenience for patients seeking alternative therapies, particularly in remote areas.
• Development of Educational Programs:There is a significant opportunity to develop educational programs focused on CAM practices, with 70% of Omani consumers expressing interest in learning about alternative therapies. By establishing accredited training programs, the market can cultivate a new generation of qualified practitioners, thereby improving service quality and consumer confidence in CAM.