Muscat – The new special economic zones will also contribute to supporting the production and service sectors, the generation of employment opportunities for citizens and the activation of commercial and logistical activities, besides contributing to the realization of the goals of Oman Vision 2040.

His Excellency Eng. Ahmed Hassan Al Dheeb, Deputy Chairman of the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ), said, “The two economic zones are subject to the provisions of the Special Economic Zones and Free Zones Law promulgated by Royal Decree No. 38/2025, which grants OPAZ powers based on comprehensive regulatory and legislative provisions that bolster the investment climate and make it more attractive to local and foreign businesses, thereby promoting the regional and international competitiveness of the Sultanate of Oman.”

His Excellency Al Dheeb told Oman News Agency (ONA) that the step is in pursuance of success stories of existing special economic zones, free zones and industrial cities supervised by OPAZ.

He pointed out that the two new zones will be operated in accordance with the best international practices and provided with integrated infrastructure and quality services that encourage investors to establish their industrial, commercial and service projects.

He added that “The Special Economic Zone in the Governorate of A’Dhahirah” will contribute to inter-regional traffic between the Sultanate of Oman, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and other countries in the region, thanks to the zone’s strategic geographical location—approximately 20 kilometres from the Rub-el-Khali border crossing and approximately 105 kilometres from Ibri Industrial City’s project. The zone will also support the sectors of manufacturing, food industries and logistics, making it a vital centre for developing supply chains, he explained.

He observed that the Special Economic Zone in Al Rawdhah will constitute an important pillar in enhancing economic activities with the United Arab Emirates—gaining impetus from the main road network linking the Port of Sohar and the Port of Jebel Ali in the Emirate of Dubai. He added that the zone’s location is approximately 85 kilometres from the Wilayat of Al Buraimi and 125 kilometres from the Wilayat of Sohar. This economic zone will also contribute to diversifying the economic investments in the fields of trade, services, transport and logistics, besides benefiting local communities and raising the quality of services and infrastructure. The zone will provide a suitable environment for establishing businesses and projects in many economic sectors, including industry, tourism, education, health, import and export in Al Buraimi Governorate, he said.