The Oslo region is a fast-growing knowledge region southeast in Norway, at the centre of the Scandinavian countries. More that one million people live in the Oslo region, which consists of Oslo, the capital of Norway, and the surrounding county of Akershus. Including the counties of Østfold, Vestfold and Buskerud, the greater Oslo region has close to two million inhabitants. 

Access to advanced knowledge

Almost half of Norway's R&D activity is located in the Oslo region. The region provides access to the most highly educated labour force in Europe – a key advantage for innovative businesses operating in the region.

There are many business sectors flourishing in the Oslo region. Advanced technology and expertise are found within fields such as finance, shipping and maritime services, information and communication technologies, energy and environmental technologies, life sciences and creative industries.

Open and international 

The Oslo region is one of the most prosperous regions in Europe and serves as the engine of an open, robust and knowledge-intensive Norwegian economy. It is easy to set up a business in Norway and Norwegians are generally seen as open-minded with a high proficiency in English. 

As the capital region and dominant business centre, Oslo is the natural gateway to the Norwegian market and a preferred location for head offices and international companies. Norway is not a member of the European Union, but through the European Economic Area (EEA) Agreement all businesses set up in Norway have access to the European Union’s internal market, regulated by EU law.

The Oslo region is Norway's most important transport hub, with all the main rail, road, ferry and air routes converging in the capital region. Three international airports, with Oslo Airport at Gardermoen as the main one, connect the region to the rest of Norway and the world.  

Unique lifestyle attractions

Norway stands out as a modern welfare society with a high quality of life, and tops the United Nations' Human Development Index. The Oslo region offers a unique blend of vibrant city life and scenic natural surroundings.

Oslo is in the process of great growth and is packed with cultural offerings in music, cuisine, design and art. Justly famous for its clean air, stable climate and spectacular scenery, the region is a haven for all outdoor pursuits, including a wide range of sports.