It has long been recognized that the increasing economic and social prosperity of the Sultanate of Oman can only be secured through the reduction of the Country's reliance on oil revenues by growing and diversifying the private sector. This is by no means a straight forward task as many nations have struggled to encourage an entrepreneurial spirit among their populations. This article shall highlight the benefit of encouraging and facilitating new business start-ups while also looking at the different factors that motivate entrepreneurs. The authors conclude by examining the barriers faced by entrepreneurs and the steps that can be taken by governments to facilitate an environment conducive to business start up and growth.

It has long been recognized that the increasing economic and social prosperity of the Sultanate of Oman can only be secured through the reduction of the Country's reliance on oil revenues by growing and diversifying the private sector. This is by no means a straight forward task as many nations have...