Duqm showcased as emerging hub for global business inflow

Duqm: The first Duqm Economic Forum on Tuesday highlighted the economic scene in the Sultanate of Oman and the future prospects for the Special Economic Zone in Duqm (SEZAD).

The second day of the forum included two discussion sessions. The first one highlighted SEZAD’s potentials as a centre for economy, business and industry. It also showcased the zone’s role as a main hub for global business inflow. The second session focused on the role of transformation to green energy in the production of petrochemicals and related industries. It also highlighted investment opportunities related to Duqm Refinery and Ras Murkaz oil storage terminal.

Eng. Ahmed Hassan Al Dheeb, Deputy Chairman of the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) said that the forum showcased the rich opportunities of Duqm Refinery project and the Raz Markaz Crude Oil Storage Terminal - the largest oil storage in the Middle East – as the petrochemicals industry moves forward with its new business models.

He added, “Our two Duqm Dialogues showed clearly the innovative spirit and inspirational ambition of Oman’s young entrepreneurs.” Al Dheeb further said that that the forum demonstrated how Duqm is leading change in green industry.

It has provided a window on the rich possibilities of SEZAD, its exceptional appeal as an investment destination and its outstanding competitive offer, which is based on sustainable growth and a bold innovative spirit, Al Dheeb said.

On his turn, Eng. Khamis Mohammed Al Shamakhi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology for Transport said that SEZAD is an enabler towards achieving the Sultanate of Oman’s approaches, such as the Logistics Strategy, reaching net zero emissions by 2050, and Oman Vision 2040, as well as developing hydrogen and green energy projects.

He added that global changes require working on making supply chains more resilient and flexible amid any possible disruptions.

His Highness Sayyid Dr. Adham Turki Al Said pointed out that the forum reflects the economic development in SEZAD.

He explained that the forum brought together many experts, investors, CEOs and investment companies who are interested in investing in the zone. Such forums, he added, contribute to increasing the tourism and business movement.