The Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) in Oman is intensifying its efforts to develop the country’s economic zones, free zones, and industrial cities as hubs for specialised industries. The initiative aims to enhance industrial value chains, attract both domestic and foreign investment, and support sustainable economic growth.

Amna bint Nasser al Sharji, Director of Investment Promotion at OPAZ, outlined a strategy that assigns distinct economic and industrial identities to each zone, leveraging their competitive advantages and available resources. This targeted approach is intended to boost industrial output, create long-term employment opportunities for Omani workers, and strengthen Oman’s position in key sectors.

The Salalah Free Zone and Raysut Industrial City are focusing on investment in pharmaceutical, medical, and food security-related industries. Their strategic proximity to the Port of Salalah facilitates global shipping connectivity, improving the import of raw materials and export of finished products.

At the Special Economic Zone in Duqm, OPAZ is prioritising green economy sectors such as green hydrogen, green ammonia, renewable energy, petrochemicals, and heavy industries. Efforts are underway to complete industrial supply chains and enhance Duqm’s role as a regional centre for sustainable manufacturing. Additionally, Duqm is developing fisheries and food-processing industries through the establishment of an integrated cold-chain cluster aimed at improving storage, distribution, and value-added processing for temperature-sensitive products.

In northern Oman, SOHAR Port and Freezone is directing investment towards polysilicon production and solar energy industries. Suhar Industrial City is concentrating on downstream plastics and aluminium manufacturing, utilising its established industrial base and advanced infrastructure.

Khazaen Economic City is emerging as a focal point for pharmaceutical security and food-processing industries. Infrastructure projects such as a central fruit and vegetable market are expected to bolster food security and attract investments in value-added processing.

According to al Sharji, OPAZ remains committed to sectors of growing global importance, including medical and pharmaceutical manufacturing, renewable energy, green minerals, food and fisheries industries, and petrochemicals. These sectors are viewed as critical for advancing Oman’s green economy transition, enhancing food and health security, expanding export capacity, and increasing the industrial sector’s contribution to the national economy.