Transport, storage sector adds RO 2.3bn to economy

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, June 23, 2026

Oman’s transport and storage sector contributed 2.3 billion Omani rials to the national economy in 2025, accounting for 3.6 percent of GDP, driven by increased cargo volumes, expanded port operations, and infrastructure investments. This growth supports Oman Vision 2040 goals by enhancing trade flow, creating over 7,000 jobs, and advancing sustainability initiatives like electric vehicle charging stations.

Oman’s transport and storage sector contributed 2.3 billion Omani rials (RO) to the national economy in 2025, representing 3.6 percent of the country’s gross domestic product, according to the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology’s Annual Report 2025. The sector’s growth was driven by increased cargo volumes, expanded port operations, and sustained infrastructure investments, reinforcing its role in Oman’s broader economic diversification efforts.

In 2025, Omani commercial ports handled over 143 million tonnes of cargo, with container traffic surging by 22 percent compared to the previous year. This growth reflects enhanced trade flows and higher utilisation of maritime infrastructure, aligned with Oman Vision 2040 targets that aim to establish logistics as the second-largest contributor to GDP by 2040. The strategic development of ports, roads, and transport networks is central to this vision.

Road infrastructure development remained a priority in 2025, with 357.4 kilometres of new roads completed and opened, bringing the Sultanate’s total asphalt road network to 16,680 kilometres. Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology Eng Said bin Hamoud al Maawali described the year as a milestone defined by ongoing infrastructure modernization and improved national connectivity.

Maritime sector activities also expanded, with authorities issuing 2,405 navigation permits to foreign vessels and granting 1,548 maritime activity licenses throughout the year. Additionally, 1,928 seafarers’ certificates were issued, and 781 ships and maritime units were registered under the Omani flag, indicating growth in both domestic and international maritime operations.

The ministry undertook regulatory enhancements, including the introduction of the Maritime Labour Regulations under Ministerial Decision No 313/2025 and amendments to regulations concerning fuel supply to ships in Omani ports. Efforts to strengthen international maritime cooperation also progressed, with Oman signing agreements and memoranda of understanding with countries such as Morocco, Türkiye, and Cyprus. These agreements focused on maritime transport, port collaboration, logistics infrastructure, and mutual recognition of seafarers’ certificates.

Investment continued to flow into the logistics sector, with total capital reaching approximately RO 3.4 billion between 2021 and 2025. During this period, 17 logistics agreements exceeding RO 100 million were signed, supporting the sector’s expansion and job creation efforts. More than 7,000 new jobs were generated through logistics initiatives, and Omanisation within the transport and logistics sector rose to 21.6 percent in 2025.

Sustainability measures also advanced, highlighted by the installation of over 160 electric vehicle charging stations across multiple governorates. These initiatives align with national objectives to promote low-carbon transport solutions and reduce environmental impacts.

With rising cargo volumes, enhanced road connectivity, and strengthened maritime activity, Oman’s transport and storage sector continues to play a crucial role in facilitating trade, promoting industrial growth, and supporting the Sultanate’s ongoing economic diversification strategy.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.