Duqm Economist Magazine releases 41st edition

The Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) has released the 41st edition of Duqm Economist Magazine in both Arabic and English. The issue covers a range of topics, reports and economic interviews, alongside analytical articles highlighting key developments in Oman’s investment and economic landscape.

The edition also reviewed statistics issued by OPAZ, which revealed that cumulative investments in special economic zones, free zones and industrial cities had risen to OMR 22 billion by the end of the first half of 2025, with an additional OMR 1 billion invested during the same period. The data indicated that total employment in these zones reached 79,202 workers, including 30,289 Omanis, reflecting an Omanisation rate of 38%.

The figures further showed that the number of Omani women investors in existing enterprises within these zones reached 754, in addition to 143 expatriate women investors residing in the Sultanate of Oman, bringing the total to 897. This underscores the growing presence of Omani women and their vital role in supporting development and enhancing economic participation.

The magazine’s editorial, titled ‘OPAZ strengthens investment footprint on global economic map,’ also highlighted OPAZ’s recognition for the 2nd consecutive year as the Best Service Outlet in Muscat Governorate for 2024.

Speaking exclusively to the Duqm Economist, H.E. Abdulsalam bin Mohammed Al Murshidi, Chairman of the Oman Investment Authority (OIA), affirmed that the Authority follows the methodology of the ‘Omani Dimension’ in its overseas investments, having attracted foreign direct investment (FDI) worth OMR 3.348 billion during 2024.

For his part, H.E. Sheikh Khalifa bin Ali Al Harthy, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs, stated that the Ministry continues its efforts through its international missions to facilitate investments and strengthen economic partnerships.

The issue also included extensive reports, among them one on the quality of life in the economic zones, free zones and industrial cities, as well as a comprehensive feature on the incentives, exemptions, and facilities available to projects operating in these zones. It further carried a special follow-up on the developments in the economic zone in Al Dhahirah Governorate and its accelerating readiness for investment.

Speaking to the Duqm Economist, Eng. Abdullah Al Wahaibi, CEO of Tatweer Duqm, revealed that the company’s asset portfolio had reached OMR 1.2 billion with the implementation of more than 46 projects over the past five years.

Meanwhile, Dr. Ayman Al Fudhaili, CEO of the Industrial Innovation Academy, explained that the academy had enhanced the readiness of more than 40 start-ups and is working towards establishing new industrial incubators.

As for the economic zones and free zones, Salalah Free Zone recorded cumulative investments of OMR 4.9 billion, with a growth rate of 6.5% by June of this year, while Sohar Free Zone registered investments worth OMR 1.318 billion distributed across 77 investment projects. The volume of goods passing through Al Mazunah Free Zone rose to 137,000 tonnes in the first half of this year, an increase of 20%. Khazaen Economic City also attracted investments exceeding OMR 276.5 million through 19 agreements during the same period.

The issue highlighted a success story of Middle East United Pipe Services, which invested OMR 3.9 million with plans for an additional expansion worth OMR 3 million. It also featured a report on Duqm Quarries, which seeks to diversify its revenue sources and strengthen its industrial partnerships, in addition to covering the efforts of Sohar Aluminium to boost energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions as part of its commitment to environmental sustainability.

The magazine included several economic articles, most notably by Awadh bin Said Baquwair titled ‘Economic diversification and investment promotion,’ an article by economic consultant Dania Arkoubi titled ‘Can AI power itself?‘; a piece by Mahmoud bin Said Al Aufi, Omani journalist, titled “Omani women are true economic partners,’ and an editorial by Saleh bin Nabhan Al Mamari, Editor-in-Chief,  titled ‘Omani Dimension methodology reflects OIA investment vision.”

The issue also covered Asyad Shipping’s expansion plans to grow its global fleet with investments ranging between $2.3-2.7 billion, targeting new sectors including ethylene and ammonia transport alongside crude oil and gas, while continuing to expand operations in more than 60 countries. It further revealed an economic report titled ‘GCC $1.5 trillion economies powered by non-oil sector.’

The magazine additionally spotlighted a variety of topics and updates, including official delegation visits to Jordan and London, the OPAZ’s participation in COMEX 2025 and Pharmconex in Cairo, as well as recent investment agreements and memoranda of understanding, along with efforts to localise projects in the industrial cities.