Muscat: The issuance of two Royal decrees establishing ‘The Special Economic Zone in the Governorate of A’Dhahirah’ (Wilayat of Ibri) and ‘The Special Economic Zone in Al Rawdhah’ (in the Wilayat of Mahadha in the Governorate of Al Buraimi) reflects a national drive towards diversifying the economy and investing in the geographical and economic advantages in the two governorates.
According to Oman News Agency, the new special economic zones will also contribute to supporting the production and service sectors, the generation of employment opportunities for citizens, and the activation of commercial and logistical activities, besides contributing to the realization of the goals of Oman Vision 2040.
Eng. Ahmed Hassan Al Dheeb, Deputy Chairman of the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ), stated that the two economic zones are subject to the provisions of the Special Economic Zones and Free Zones Law promulgated by Royal Decree No. 38/2025. This law grants OPAZ powers based on comprehensive regulatory and legislative provisions that bolster the investment climate and make it more attractive to local and foreign businesses, thereby promoting the regional and international competitiveness of the Sultanate of Oman.
Al Dheeb mentioned that the step is in pursuance of success stories of existing special economic zones, free zones, and industrial cities supervised by OPAZ. He pointed out that the two new zones will be operated in accordance with best international practices and will be provided with integrated infrastructure and quality services that encourage investors to establish their industrial, commercial, and service projects.
He added that ‘The Special Economic Zone in the Governorate of A’Dhahirah’ will contribute to inter-regional traffic between the Sultanate of Oman, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and other countries in the region. This is due to the zone’s strategic geographical location-approximately 20 kilometres from the Rub-el-Khali border crossing and approximately 105 kilometres from Ibri Industrial City’s project. The zone will also support the sectors of manufacturing, food industries, and logistics, making it a vital centre for developing supply chains.
He observed that the Special Economic Zone in Al Rawdhah will constitute an important pillar in enhancing economic activities with the United Arab Emirates. It gains impetus from the main road network linking the Port of Sohar and the Port of Jebel Ali in the Emirate of Dubai. The zone’s location is approximately 85 kilometres from the Wilayat of Al Buraimi and 125 kilometres from the Wilayat of Sohar. This economic zone will also contribute to diversifying the economic investments in fields such as trade, services, transport, and logistics, besides benefiting local communities and raising the quality of services and infrastructure. The zone will provide a suitable environment for establishing businesses and projects in many economic sectors, including industry, tourism, education, health, import, and export in Al Buraimi Governorate, he said.