Oman and DP World Advance Phase 1 of Al-Rawdah Special Economic Zone: Establishing a New Strategic Logistics Gateway

Top leadership from Oman and DP World (Photo: GulfDailyMail)

The Sultanate of Oman and port giant DP World recently held a high-level meeting to review the progress of the Al-Rawdah Special Economic Zone, while simultaneously agreeing on the next steps for the deployment of Phase 1 of this ambitious project.

The meeting took place at the headquarters of the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) in Muscat. It was attended by H.E. Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, Chairman of OPAZ, and Mr. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, alongside senior officials from both parties. Discussions focused on the latest milestones achieved and the upcoming execution roadmap for this strategic initiative.

Planning and Implementation Roadmap

Discussions delved into the details of the execution roadmap for the initial phase of development and operations. Specifically, the area allocated to the developer in this phase spans approximately 14 km².

Aligned with the approved master plan, the zone is designed with high flexibility, allowing for expansion up to 24 km² in the second phase. This reflects a proactive approach to anticipating investor demand and long-term growth objectives. Previously, the project development agreement was officially signed on May 26, 2025.

Geo-Strategic Position in the Regional Supply Chain

Located in the Al Rawdah District of Wilayat Mahdah, Al Buraimi Governorate, the Al-Rawdah Special Economic Zone occupies a strategic position along critical regional trade corridors.

The zone's core competitive advantage lies in its direct access to the Sultanate's major road network, as well as its proximity to major regional logistics hubs, including Sohar Port and Jebel Ali Port in Dubai.

Geographically, the zone is situated approximately 85 km from Al Buraimi and 125 km from Sohar, reinforcing its role as a gateway for trade and industrial cooperation between Oman and the UAE.

Commenting on the project's significance, Mr. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem stated: “The Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone represents a strategic platform for enabling seamless trade, industrial growth, and regional connectivity between Oman and the UAE.”

Commitment and Future Vision

Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to close coordination to ensure the project is delivered on schedule and according to agreed standards, while maintaining development momentum throughout subsequent phases.

The project is expected to attract high-value investments in the fields of logistics, light manufacturing, and industrial services. Furthermore, the zone will play a role in supporting job creation, knowledge transfer, and realizing the economic diversification goals outlined in Oman Vision 2040.

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Source: Phaata.com (According to Container-News)

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