As we move into 2026, the global construction industry continues to expand steadily, underpinned by rising infrastructure spending, urbanisation, and innovation in sustainable building practice. Worldwide, construction output is forecast to grow moderately, driven by residential and infrastructure demand that rebounds after pandemic‑era slowdowns and supply chain disruptions. In major markets such as the UK, overall construction output is expected to increase by roughly 2.8–4.8 % in 2026, while new housing and infrastructure segments demonstrate stronger growth prospects than in prior years. This global momentum reflects broad confidence in long‑term development needs across both mature and emerging economies.
In Oman, the construction sector is set for continued, stable expansion in 2026, supported by rising investment from both public and private sources. According to national industry reports, the sector is projected to grow at an average annual rate of 4.4 % between 2026 and 2029, reflecting sustained demand in transport, housing and renewable energy infrastructure. Investments in key national priorities such as logistics zones, airports, and environmental initiatives are also expected to bolster sector activity.
Government commitments outlined in Vision 2040 strategically align infrastructure delivery with economic diversification, emphasising sustainable urban growth and transport networks that serve growing population and industrial needs. With total foreign direct investment (FDI) into the country rising by more than 18 % year‑on‑year in 2024, construction prospects are further strengthened as international capital flows support large‑scale projects that enhance competitiveness.
Residential building remains a core driver of construction activity in 2026, as Oman continues to address housing demand with state‑led initiatives that will see tens of thousands of new units delivered by 2030. At the same time, public‑private partnerships are expected to play an increasing role in commercial construction, particularly in tourism, retail and industrial property developments. These partnerships not only enhance capital efficiency but also accelerate project delivery timelines, making ambitious infrastructure programmes more feasible. (
Industry challenges persist, with skilled labour shortages and construction cost pressures noted globally and regionally. However, technological adoption — from digital planning and building information modelling (BIM) to modular construction and offsite manufacturing — offers pathways to enhance productivity and cost management. As sustainability becomes embedded in project planning, 2026 is likely to usher in more energy‑efficient buildings and greener materials, positioning the construction sector as a cornerstone of broader environmental and economic transformation.
Sources:
https://www.ifpinfo.com/omans-commercial-construction-market-to-reach-26-82-billion-by-2030/ (ifpinfo.com)
https://meed.progressivedigitalmedia.com/investment-drives-oman-construction-growth (meed.progressivedigitalmedia.com)
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/oman-construction-industry-report-2025-132900520.html (Yahoo Finance)
https://www.constructionleadershipcouncil.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/202511-Monthly-Construct… (constructionleadershipcouncil.co.uk)



