Gulf & Energy Economies

A European Second Base for Oman Residents: Why the Netherlands Works

Updated: 6 October 2026 Holdwise editorial team Oman Second base Gulf

Oman has adopted a personal income tax that starts on 1 January 2028. This gives families from Oman a fixed date to plan a second base in Europe. If you set up the structure now, you have more options than when you set it up in a hurry. The Netherlands offers such a structure and a way of life close to nature. At Holdwise, we keep this answer up to date. You find the steps further down this page.

Why start now

If you start now, you can take your time for every choice. You design the holding company on its merits, buy property for its long-term value and plan the family calendar around the school terms. See a Dutch holding for your Gulf group and incorporation from Oman. Dividends to Oman are paid under the tax treaty. See dividend tax between the Gulf and the Netherlands.

Adding a European base to your Gulf business? See how Gulf owners set up a Dutch holding, with the treaty rates and the bank file.

What you can do with the base

You can trade in the EU through the port of Rotterdam (see selling goods into Europe). You can hold property (see Dutch real estate through a BV). When the family wants to, it can relocate to the Netherlands completely. See relocating your family from Oman.

A similar pace of life

Life in Oman and in the Netherlands has a similar pace. People in both countries are punctual and relaxed, and nature is close. Families from Oman who visit often make up their minds quickly. You can own the company from abroad or live here full-time. See owning a Dutch BV while living abroad and the substance requirements.

Is your group setting up a Dutch entity? See setting up a Dutch subsidiary for what you need, how long it takes and what the parent company must sign.

Setting it up

You set up the company, usually within one week once all documents are complete. You open the bank account with a prepared file. At the same time, you make the school shortlist. See the 90-day checklist.

Free advice

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We help entrepreneurs and international companies with their company in the Netherlands and Europe. Tell us where you stand or what you are planning. You get free advice on your next step.

Part of Doing Business in the Netherlands, the complete 2026 guide.

Frequently asked questions

Why act before the final rules for 2028 are known? +

A structure set up now costs less than one set up in a hurry later. You can adjust a structure you set up today to the rules that apply from 2028. If you wait until the deadline, you have less time and fewer choices.

Does the base require relocating the family? +

The family can stay at home, and you can own the company from abroad. Where the company is managed decides where it pays tax. If all decisions are taken abroad, the company can become taxable there. Plan board meetings and important decisions in the Netherlands. The family can relocate when the schools and the seasons suit.

What is the minimum meaningful setup? +

One holding BV with basic services. When you start an activity, you add a separate BV for it. The cost is a four-figure amount per year. You can add more companies later. Each company has its own business address, under a contract that you sign yourself.

Sources Belastingdienst · KVK · wetten.overheid.nl Last updated: 6 October 2026