Omani Brands Use Franchising to Accelerate Local and International Expansion

Omani Brands Use Franchising to Accelerate Local and International Expansion

Nomad Inn and Seven Fries highlight how Omani businesses are using franchising to expand locally and internationally with OCCI support.

Omani businesses are increasingly turning to the franchise business model to expand their operations, strengthen their market presence and reach international markets. Two examples, Nomad Inn and Seven Fries, illustrate how local brands are using franchising to develop their businesses with support from the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI).

Nomad Inn Builds Its Franchise Network Across Oman

Founded by Asaad bin Saud Al Akhzami, Nomad Inn is one of the Omani brands benefiting from the OCCI's Franchise Programme. According to its founder, the initiative helped the company transform its operational expertise into structured procedures and systems, strengthening its readiness for expansion through franchising.

The hospitality brand has already signed three franchise agreements in Oman: two in the Wilayat of Sur and one in the Wilayat of Nizwa. Its ambition is to reach 15 hotels and resorts under the Nomad Inn name and eventually expand into international markets.

This development illustrates how franchising can help local hospitality businesses replicate their operating models, establish a wider presence across the country and prepare for growth beyond their domestic market.

Seven Fries Expands Its Omani Concept into the United States

Another example is Seven Fries, an Omani food brand whose international development demonstrates the potential of franchise partnerships. Syed Iqbal, representing Shaheen Group, highlighted the brand's expansion into the United States through a master franchise agreement with Al Saleh Ideal Projects.

The partnership illustrates how an Omani business can use a master franchise structure to enter a foreign market and work with a local partner to develop its operations. It also demonstrates the importance of appropriate expansion tools and strategic partnerships in supporting the international growth of local brands.

OCCI Supports the Development of Franchise-Ready Businesses

Both examples were highlighted during the launch of the fifth edition of the OCCI Franchise Programme on June 21, 2026. The new edition aims to support 26 Omani brands by helping them develop franchise-ready business models and improve their ability to expand into regional and international markets.

Implementation of the programme is scheduled to begin in September 2026 and continue for eight months. Its objectives include strengthening the competitiveness of local companies, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and creating new investment opportunities.

The initiative is also aligned with Oman Vision 2040, which places economic diversification, private-sector development and sustainable business growth among its priorities.

Franchising as a Route to International Growth

The experiences of Nomad Inn and Seven Fries highlight two complementary approaches to franchise development. While Nomad Inn is building its presence within Oman before pursuing international opportunities, Seven Fries demonstrates how a local brand can access a major overseas market through a master franchise partnership.

For Omani entrepreneurs and investors, these examples underline the role of franchise development, structured operating systems and reliable business partnerships in creating scalable companies. With institutional support from the OCCI, local brands are being encouraged to turn successful business concepts into franchise networks capable of reaching new markets.

Middle East Franchise Editorial Team