Saturday 06 / June / 2026
Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman is continuing to assess the potential of geological, or natural, hydrogen as part of ongoing efforts to explore emerging energy resources, while emphasizing that the sector remains in the research and preliminary evaluation stage.
The Ministry of Energy and Minerals said Oman possesses unique geological characteristics, particularly the Omani ophiolite formations, including the Samail ophiolite, which is regarded as one of the largest and most significant geological formations of its kind in the world. These formations have attracted growing scientific interest due to their potential association with naturally occurring hydrogen resources.
Geological hydrogen has emerged as a promising area of global research as countries and energy companies seek new sustainable and low-carbon energy sources to support the energy transition.
The ministry stressed that all hydrogen-related activities in Oman are governed by clear regulatory and technical frameworks designed to ensure operational safety, data reliability and the protection of national resources. It noted that any future move from research and exploration to development or investment activities would depend on the outcomes of approved studies and comprehensive technical and scientific evaluations.
According to the ministry, the geological hydrogen sector in Oman has not progressed beyond research and preliminary technical assessment. No operational or commercial licenses have been granted to any entity for the production of natural hydrogen in the Sultanate.
The ministry explained that many scientific questions related to the occurrence of natural hydrogen, including its formation, migration and accumulation within rocks and geological structures, remain under investigation worldwide. Scientific models in this field continue to evolve, with varying assumptions, methodologies and findings, reflecting the early stage of development of this emerging exploration sector.
It added that growing interest in geological hydrogen should not be interpreted as evidence of immediately available development or investment opportunities. Before any conclusions can be reached regarding commercial viability or economic potential, extensive data collection programmes, specialized geological and geochemical studies, and detailed technical assessments must be completed and evaluated according to internationally recognized scientific standards.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to a science-based approach in assessing emerging energy resources, noting that future decisions regarding geological hydrogen will be guided by verified research findings, technical feasibility studies and the long-term interests of the Sultanate’s energy sector.
As global attention increasingly turns toward alternative and low-carbon energy solutions, Oman continues to monitor developments in geological hydrogen while leveraging its distinctive geological formations to expand scientific understanding and evaluate potential opportunities for future sustainable energy development.
