Why tile manufacturers and exporters targeting the Omani market must meet Oman's quality and safety requirements.
The Sultanate of Oman has strengthened its regulatory framework to ensure that construction and building materials entering the country meet strict national quality and safety requirements.
To support this, Oman introduced the Omani Quality Mark (OQM), which serves as the country’s official certification for product compliance. OQM has become a mandatory certification for selected product categories including ceramic tiles under the oversight of the Directorate General for Standards and Metrology (DGSM).
What this means for exporters
If you are exporting ceramic tiles to Oman, understanding and complying with OQM requirements is essential for smooth market entry and to avoid costly rejections.
Ceramic tiles play a significant role in residential, commercial, and industrial construction. Ensuring that these materials meet national standards is critical for preventing low‑quality or non‑compliant tiles from entering the market, ultimately protecting both consumers and the country’s infrastructure landscape.
What Is the Omani Quality Mark (OQM)?
The Zubair CorporationThe Omani Quality Mark is an official certification granted by DGSM to products that demonstrate full compliance with Omani and international standards. For regulated categories such as ceramic tiles, obtaining the OQM is mandatory.
Obtaining the mark confirms that the product has passed:
- Laboratory performance testing
- Factory inspection and evaluation
- Quality management system review
- Ongoing surveillance to maintain compliance
Once certified, manufacturers can affix the OQM logo on their ceramic tile products and packaging according to DGSM guidelines.
The OQM Certification Process for Ceramic Tiles
To start the certification process, an exporter must first fill out a Request for Certification (RFC) document and submit it to Cotecna. After that, exporters and manufacturers must follow a structured conformity assessment process to obtain the mark:
1. Application Submission
Applicants provide documentation to Cotecna including product specifications, technical sheets, QMS certificates, and production details.
2. Product Testing
Ceramic tiles undergo testing in an accredited laboratory to verify conformity with applicable standards (e.g., water absorption, mechanical strength, slip resistance, chemical resistance).
3. Factory Inspection
DGSM‑approved inspectors assess the production facility, confirming consistent process control and adherence to quality procedures.
4. Technical File Evaluation
All documents including test reports, manufacturing controls, and labeling requirements are reviewed by Cotecna to ensure alignment with regulatory expectations.
5. Mark Issuance
Once all requirements are met, the Omani Quality Mark is issued by DGSM, allowing the product to legally enter the Omani market.
6. Surveillance and Renewal
Certified products undergo periodic audits and market monitoring. OQM is typically valid for three years, subject to ongoing conformity.
Why Ceramic Tile Exporters Need the OQM?
Without the Omani Quality Mark:
- Ceramic tiles may be rejected at customs
- Shipments risk delays, storage costs, or re-exportation
- Importers may face penalties for non-compliance
With the OQM:
- Products meet Oman’s performance and safety benchmarks
- Importers and contractors gain confidence in product quality
- Manufacturers enjoy smoother customs clearance and fewer regulatory risks
- Brands strengthen credibility in the Omani market
As a trusted global conformity assessment provider, Cotecna helps exporters navigate Oman’s regulatory landscape by offering end‑to‑end support including Document Review, Laboratory Testing Coordination, Factory Inspection Support, Technical File Evaluation & Guidance, and Certification Support.
With Cotecna’s support, exporters can navigate OQM requirements confidently and ensure that their ceramic tiles are fully compliant, certified, and ready for the Omani market. With increasing regulatory scrutiny in Oman, obtaining the OQM is not just required it’s a competitive advantage.
To begin your OQM certification journey, contact our team today.
About Cotecna
For over 50 years, we have been supporting agriculture, food and pharma, minerals and metals, and consumer products supply chains all over the world. We provide testing, inspection, and certification services to help our clients navigate evolving regulations, ensure product compliance, and support their sustainability journey.