Oman is accelerating its industrial growth by taking significant steps in the sector. The Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) is leading efforts to establish new industrial cities, working in collaboration with the Public Establishment for Industrial Estates (Madayn) to invest in key projects such as Mahas Industrial City (Musandam), Al Mudhaibi Industrial City, and Thamrait Industrial City (Dhofar). These expansions play a crucial role in attracting foreign direct investment, creating employment opportunities for Omani youth, and enhancing the country’s production capacity.
Oman’s industrial policies prioritize key sectors such as metals, mining, and construction. The Duqm Special Economic Zone (SEZAD) has emerged as a major hub, hosting large-scale projects like the Duqm Refinery and crude oil storage facilities. Meanwhile, the Sohar Free Zone focuses on mining, ceramics, and construction materials manufacturing, while the Salalah Free Zone attracts investments in pharmaceuticals and petrochemicals. As of the end of 2024, 183 industrial licenses have been issued, with 68% linked to industrial cities, highlighting these zones as key drivers of economic diversification.
Oman’s Industrial Strategy 2040 outlines ambitious plans to modernize the sector. The strategy aims to triple the manufacturing sector’s contribution to GDP by 2024, increase industrial exports to 25 billion Omani rials by 2040, and attract a total of 40 billion Omani rials in industrial investments. A key focus is on leveraging advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence to enhance efficiency and promote sustainability. The plan covers 30 priority sectors, ranging from natural resource-based industries to high-tech manufacturing.
By expanding industrial zones and investing in strategic sectors, Oman seeks to establish itself as a competitive hub for regional and international investors. Growth in the metals, mining, and construction industries will not only strengthen Oman’s role in the Gulf’s industrial supply chain but also support long-term economic sustainability and diversification.
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