
MUSCAT: Oman’s Directorate General of Customs is redefining government efficiency with its one-stop electronic permit system, issuing over 140,000 permits in 2025 - some in as little as 16 seconds - a milestone in speeding up trade and service delivery for businesses and citizens alike.
The achievement was highlighted during this year’s World Customs Day, themed “Customs protects society through vigilance and commitment”, showcasing how digital integration across government entities is transforming Oman’s logistics and regulatory environment.
Brigadier Said bin Khamis Al Ghaithi, Director General of Customs, said the one-stop station is part of the broader Bayan platform, which connects customs with multiple government agencies to allow complete electronic processing of permits, risk management, and post-clearance audits.
Brig. Al Ghaithi said that the one-stop shop ensures that compliance does not slow down trade, while maintaining strict controls to prevent prohibited goods from entering the country. He added that digital transformation is no longer optional - it is a strategic enabler of both security and economic growth.
In addition to the one-stop permits, the Directorate processed over 1.29 million customs declarations in 2025, demonstrating that high-volume efficiency and tight control can coexist. The use of artificial intelligence in customs valuation and risk management has allowed officers to detect more than 1,000 cases of smuggling or prohibited imports, marking a 10% increase over 2024.
The one-stop initiative also supports Oman’s broader economic diversification goals by reducing administrative friction for businesses, attracting investment, and speeding the flow of goods across borders.
The Directorate is also focused on building national talent capable of managing advanced digital systems, alongside public awareness campaigns and a 24-hour toll-free call centre (80080022) to assist traders and passengers.