MUSCAT: Transshipment volumes reached 24.38 million metric tonnes during the six-month period, while container handling rose by 40 percent to 545,000 standard containers. General cargo handling doubled to 1.24 million metric tonnes.
The port received around 1,555 vessels during the first half of the year, maintaining stable operational performance across its various activities despite a decline in dry bulk cargo handling.
Investment in existing and expansion projects at Sohar Port and Freezone continued in line with implementation plans, with total investments reaching RO 2.62 billion. The projects are aimed at strengthening infrastructure, expanding the industrial base, improving logistics capabilities and enhancing the competitiveness and long-term sustainability of the integrated system.
Emile Hoogsteden, CEO of Sohar Port, said the results demonstrated the ability of Sohar Port and Freezone to respond to the requirements of regional and international trade and support supply chains through an integrated system linking the port, freezone, industrial activities and logistics sectors.
He said Sohar Port and Freezone continued to invest in infrastructure development, strengthen shipping connectivity and improve operational efficiency to create long-term value for customers, partners and the national economy.
Hoogsteden added that the investments would strengthen the readiness of the integrated system for future growth and expansion and reinforce Oman’s position as a hub connected to global markets.
Meanwhile, Sohar Freezone attracted five new investment agreements during the first half of 2026, with a combined value of RO 226.47 million, as the industrial base continued to expand.
The area of leased warehouses increased by 19 percent to around 37,000 square metres, driven by growing demand for industrial and logistics facilities.
Eng Raed bin Mohammed al Rubaie, CEO of SOHAR Free Zone and Deputy CEO of Sohar Port, said the freezone was focused on creating sustainable economic value through value-added industrial projects and strengthening its position as a destination for quality investment.
He said Sohar Port and Freezone would continue to focus on attracting quality industries to Oman, deepening local and regional value chains and supporting economic growth.
During the first half of 2026, Sohar Port and Freezone also implemented nine social responsibility initiatives benefiting more than 37,450 people across health, community, education and youth programmes.