Al Batinah North eyes growth with $30 bn investments

SUHAR: With investments exceeding $30 billion, over 54,600 commercial registrations, and a population nearing 940,500, Al Batinah North Governorate is accelerating efforts to position itself as one of Oman’s strongest engines of economic growth, logistics, industrial expansion and sustainable urban development.
The governorate, home to Sohar Port and Free Zone, continues to attract major global investments, hosting more than 1,900 companies from 49 countries, while maintaining an Omanisation rate of around 94 per cent and generating over 42,000 jobs.
Mohammed bin Sulaiman al Kindi, Governor of Al Batinah North, said the governorate is implementing its 2026–2030 Strategic Plan, aligned with Oman Vision 2040, with priorities focused on economic diversification, digital transformation, service efficiency and quality of life.
Among the key drivers of growth are infrastructure and urban development projects designed to stimulate tourism, attract private investment and improve public spaces across the governorate’s six wilayats.
The Shinas Waterfront Project is expected to revitalise the historic centre of Shinas through a seaside promenade, mangrove park and hospitality investments, while Liwa’s RO 2.1 million entrance development project, now 50 per cent complete, aims to improve roads, green spaces, pedestrian walkways and cycling tracks.
In Suhar, plans are advancing to transform Wadi Salan into an integrated urban destination featuring investment zones, tourism facilities and recreational spaces. Meanwhile, the Majis Waterfront Project, valued at approximately RO 1.75 million, is under construction through a partnership between the governorate and OQ and is expected to be completed by the end of this year.
Economic indicators also reflect growing investor confidence. By the end of 2025, Al Batinah North recorded 54,603 cumulative commercial registrations, including 4,271 new registrations, while completed commercial licences reached 91,368, driven by ongoing reforms to improve the business environment and simplify procedures.
The governorate is also benefiting from strategic national infrastructure projects. The Oman-UAE railway project, currently 45 per cent complete, is expected to enhance trade connectivity and logistics efficiency, linking ports and industrial areas to wider regional markets.
Food security and fisheries are also key priorities. The planned Saham Agricultural City, covering around 92.3 square kilometres, aims to strengthen agricultural production, while the governorate’s fisheries sector continues to expand through 31 investment projects, supported by six fishing ports, eight fish markets and more than 13,200 artisanal fishermen.
Healthcare development remains another pillar of growth, with the opening of Al Suwaiq Referral Hospital, valued at over RO 75 million, alongside new dialysis and addiction rehabilitation facilities. — ONA