Oman’s new sultan will hasten decentralisation

Significance

This marks the first significant change of policy following the death in January of former Sultan Qaboos, after half a century in power. Qaboos’s Oman began as a highly centralised state but in recent decades, changing political and economic imperatives have driven a distinctive decentralisation process.

Impacts

• Services will move closer to the public through more powerful governorates and e-government systems.
• Significant training and technocratic support will be required as ministries devolve further responsibilities to front-line delivery teams.
• More stakes will be sold in key industries and utilities, with Dhofar Electricity Company and OmanTel likely early prospects.