The Oman American Business Center (OABC) introduced 36 U.S. franchises to Omani investors and entrepreneurs at a two-day event at the Crowne Plaza Muscat, Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC), between April 7-8.

Delegates presented brands new to Oman, and connected with attendees during one-on-one meetings on the second day of the event. Opportunities presented included fast casual dining establishments, restaurant experiences, kids’ education, entertainment, fitness, technology, health and more.

Asha Enterprises and Clyde & Co. sponsored the event. Asha Enterprises had experts present to connect with potential franchisees to discuss specific costs and requirements for fit-out and interior design. Joycia Young, Partner at Clyde & Co Dubai, presented legal steps to opening a franchise, as a top franchise law expert in the region.

Joel Stewart, Founder of Integrity Commerical and Omar Al Haza’a, CEO and Founder of Franchise Arabia, partnered with the OABC to invite US companies to the event. “The Oman-US Free Trade Agreement and the positive economic outlook for the Sultanate make this country a key market and country of interest for the brands I represent,” said Stewart.

“I’m very grateful to the OABC for facilitating the first event of its kind in Oman — I was surprised by the new concepts and opportunities presented, and I see a lot of potential for a number of them to succeed in Oman,” says MaanAlasfoor, OABC Member and Business Development Manager at Global Reliance Line.

“As the official affiliate of the US Chamber of Commerce in Oman, we are always looking for new ways to connect Omani and US businesses and to highlight opportunities that could facilitate commercial development between both nations,” says Rebecca Olson, Executive Director at the OABC. “We look forward to hosting similar events in the future.”

From Times in Oman.

Find Clyde & Co. presentation here, more pictures here.