Oman video game market report size, share, growth drivers, trends, opportunities & forecast 2025–2030

Oman Video Game Market Overview

• The Oman Video Game Market is valued at USD 15 million, based on a five-year historical analysis. This growth is primarily driven by increasing smartphone penetration (over 80% of the population), rapid expansion of 5G and broadband infrastructure, and a young, digitally engaged demographic. The market has seen notable growth in mobile gaming, which now accounts for the majority of revenue, alongside a steady rise in console and PC gaming, reflecting evolving consumer preferences toward interactive entertainment experiences .
• Key players in this market include Muscat, Salalah, and Sohar, which dominate due to their larger populations and superior access to technology and gaming infrastructure. Muscat, as the capital, serves as a hub for gaming events and communities, while Salalah and Sohar have seen a rise in gaming cafes and local tournaments, fostering a vibrant gaming culture .
• The regulatory framework for the gaming sector is supported by the “Executive Regulations of the Foreign Capital Investment Law, 2020” issued by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion. This regulation provides tax incentives and streamlined licensing for technology and digital entertainment companies, including game developers, and supports eSports initiatives through government-backed programs and funding .

Oman Video Game Market Segmentation

By Game Type:The market is segmented into various game types, including Action, Adventure, Role-Playing Games (RPG), Simulation, Sports, Puzzle, Strategy, Casual, and Others. Action games remain the dominant segment, driven by fast-paced gameplay and broad appeal, particularly among younger players. The surge in mobile gaming has significantly contributed to the popularity of Casual and Puzzle games, which are easily accessible and cater to a wide demographic .

By Platform:The market is also segmented by platform, including Mobile Gaming, PC Gaming, Console Gaming, Cloud Gaming, Browser Gaming, and Others. Mobile Gaming is the leading segment, accounting for over half of the market share, fueled by widespread smartphone adoption and affordable data plans. The convenience of mobile gaming makes it the preferred choice, especially among the younger population. PC and console gaming remain important, with PC gaming showing particular strength in downloaded/box games, while cloud and browser gaming are emerging segments .

Oman Video Game Market Competitive Landscape

The Oman Video Game Market is characterized by a dynamic mix of regional and international players. Leading participants such as PhazeRo, Innovation Factory, Quirky Games, Oman eSports Federation, Omani Game Developers Association, Game On Oman, Muscat eSports League, Digital Oasis, Pixelated Tech, Oman Gaming Hub, Al Noor Games, Oman Interactive Entertainment, Game Changer Oman, Ubisoft Middle East, Sony Interactive Entertainment Middle East contribute to innovation, geographic expansion, and service delivery in this space.

Oman Video Game Market Industry Analysis

Growth Drivers

• Increasing Smartphone Penetration:As of future, Oman has an estimated smartphone penetration rate of 95%, with approximately 4.7 million smartphone users. This widespread access to mobile devices facilitates gaming, as mobile games account for over 50% of the gaming market. The availability of affordable smartphones, with prices averaging around OMR 50, has made gaming accessible to a broader audience, particularly among the youth, who represent a significant portion of the gaming demographic.
• Rising Disposable Income:The average disposable income in Oman is projected to reach OMR 1,100 in future, reflecting a 5% increase from the previous year. This rise in disposable income allows consumers to spend more on entertainment, including video games. As gaming becomes a popular leisure activity, the increase in spending power is expected to drive demand for both mobile and console games, contributing to market growth and diversification.
• Growing Interest in eSports:The eSports sector in Oman is experiencing rapid growth, with an estimated 200,000 active eSports participants in future. This interest is fueled by local tournaments and international competitions, which attract significant viewership. The Omani government has recognized eSports as a legitimate sport, leading to increased investment in infrastructure and events. This trend is expected to enhance community engagement and stimulate the overall gaming market, particularly among younger audiences.

Market Challenges

• Limited Local Game Development:Oman currently has only a handful of local game development studios, with fewer than 10 active companies in the sector. This limitation restricts the availability of culturally relevant content and hinders the growth of a robust gaming ecosystem. The lack of local talent and investment in game development further exacerbates this challenge, making it difficult for Omani developers to compete with established international studios.
• Cultural Restrictions on Content:The Omani government enforces strict regulations on video game content, which can limit the types of games that can be developed and distributed. Content that is deemed inappropriate or offensive is often banned, affecting both local and international publishers. This regulatory environment can stifle creativity and innovation within the gaming industry, making it challenging for developers to create engaging and diverse gaming experiences that resonate with local audiences.

Oman Video Game Market Future Outlook

The Oman video game market is poised for significant transformation, driven by technological advancements and changing consumer preferences. The rise of cloud gaming and augmented reality (AR) technologies is expected to enhance user experiences, while subscription-based models will likely gain traction among gamers. Additionally, the increasing popularity of social gaming platforms will foster community engagement, creating new opportunities for developers and publishers. As the market evolves, collaboration between local studios and international partners will be crucial for sustainable growth.

Market Opportunities

• Development of Local Gaming Studios:There is a significant opportunity for the establishment of local gaming studios in Oman, which can create culturally relevant content. With government support and a growing interest in gaming, local studios can tap into the regional market, potentially generating revenues exceeding OMR 1 million annually. This development can also foster job creation and skill development within the local workforce.
• Partnerships with Educational Institutions:Collaborating with educational institutions to integrate game design and development into curricula presents a unique opportunity. It is estimated that over 5,000 students could benefit from such programs, enhancing their skills and preparing them for careers in the gaming industry. This initiative can also stimulate innovation and creativity, contributing to the growth of the local gaming ecosystem.