MUSCAT – This growth is in tandem with vital development steps implemented by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology as part of its efforts to enhance port infrastructure and raise their future readiness, in line with the goals of Oman Vision 2040.

According to Muhanna bin Musa bin Baqer, Director General of Ports at the Ministry, the total number of containers handled at Salalah, Sohar, and Duqm ports reached 2,427,195 TEUs between January and June 2025, marking an 11.7percent increase from 2,173,508 TEUs during the same period in 2024. He attributed this growth to the efficiency of logistics operations and the ports’ enhanced capacity to manage rising demand.

He added in a statement to the Oman News Agency that Omani ports also recorded an increase in the number of ships, as the total number of ships received by Omani ports and marine docks outside the ports reached 6,586 ships during the first half of 2025, compared to 5,930 ships during the same period in 2024. This shows a growth rate of 11.1 percent, with several major ports contributing to this growth – most notably Sultan Qaboos Port, Shinas, and Salalah.

In terms of cargo, Omani ports handled 70.1 million tons of goods in the first half of 2025, up from 66.6 million tons in the same period of 2024, reflecting a 5.2 percent year-on-year increase. The number of vehicles received at the ports stood at 50,248, while livestock imports reached 2,694,293 heads, highlighting the diversity and efficiency of the country’s port operations.

The Director General also outlined several key infrastructure projects underway as part of the ministry’s long-term strategic development plans. Among them is the awarding of a consultancy services contract for the design and supervision of the Khor Jarama development project, which aims to boost the site’s readiness and maximize maritime utilization. Another consultancy tender was awarded for the rehabilitation of Shannah and Masirah ports, covering studies and planning for marine infrastructure upgrades including docks, breakwaters, and the port access bridge. The study phase is expected to take eight months.

In addition, the ministry supported a new investment at Shinas Port, where Quadrilateral Marine Solutions and Systems Company, the port’s operator, signed a usufruct agreement to establish a marine fuel processing and storage centre.

These developments, according to the Director General, are part of ongoing efforts to enhance Oman’s competitiveness in the global logistics arena and to strengthen its position as a regional maritime transport hub.