Oman’s industrial rise gains global recognition

MUSCAT: Oman’s industrial sector is undergoing a rapid and far-reaching transformation, marked by strong progress in legislation, production capacity and investment. Manufacturing has become a central pillar of national economic policy, reshaping the Sultanate of Oman’s industrial identity and reinforcing its position on the global economic map as a competitive and diversified economy.
This industrial momentum is reflected in the launch and operation of several landmark strategic projects across the country. These include the Karwa Motors vehicle manufacturing plant in the Duqm Special Economic Zone, the Sanfira Carbon factory in Dhofar, the Duqm Refinery and the Liwa Plastics Industries Complex. In addition, the completion of the United Solar polysilicon production plant has strengthened supply chain localisation for the solar energy sector, supporting Oman’s ambitions in renewable energy manufacturing.
The industrial expansion has also extended to pharmaceutical security, with the inauguration of the Flex, Dhofar and Menagen pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities. These projects have enhanced domestic production capacity, enabled the transfer of advanced technologies, strengthened local supply chains and created opportunities for skilled Omani talent within high-value industries.
Economic indicators highlight the scale of the sector’s transformation. Industrial output has recorded annual growth of around 7 per cent, while industrial exports exceeded RO 7 billion by the end of 2024. Foreign direct industrial investment reached approximately RO 2.8 billion and employment in the sector rose to more than 57,000 Omani nationals, underlining its growing contribution to economic diversification and job creation.
International recognition has followed these achievements. The United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) has classified Oman among emerging industrial countries, commending its rapid progress in high-tech industries and the development of advanced value chains. UNIDO also cited Oman’s Industrial Strategy 2040 as a strong model for leveraging innovation and localising technology.

Dr Saleh bin Said Masan, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion for Commerce and Industry, said the next phase of industrial development, aligned with the Eleventh Five-Year Plan, will prioritise smart production and the adoption of Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies. He noted that these initiatives are essential to sustaining industrial leadership and positioning manufacturing as a true engine of economic diversification.
Engineer Khalid bin Salim al Qasabi, Director General of Industry at the ministry, reported record growth in industrial licence applications, driven by enabling programmes such as “Itqan” and the “Smart Production Factories” initiative. He also highlighted the activation of new regulatory and planning tools, including the “Industrial Observatory” and the “Tasnee” platform, aimed at organising industrial procurement and boosting local content.
In the downstream industrial landscape, Engineer Saeed bin Mohammed al Masoudi, CEO of Sohar Aluminium, said the company has established a strong foundation for downstream industries by attracting quality investments and achieving record Omanisation rates. These efforts, he noted, have significantly increased local value addition within the national economy.
Engineer Omar bin Ali al Balushi, CEO of Oman Aluminium Rolling Mill Company, described the past five years as a decisive period for Oman's industrial sector, marked by major structural shifts and tangible achievements. He stressed that supportive government policies and sustained institutional backing have driven growth in aluminium production and exports, alongside notable expansion in operational capacity and infrastructure.
Nasser bin Sulaiman al Azri, CEO of Vale Oman, affirmed that Oman offers a highly attractive environment for long-term industrial investment. He noted that the company continues to invest annually in advanced industrial capabilities serving global steel markets and is preparing to expand its regional operations in line with its commitment to sustainable growth. — ONA