MUSCAT: Eight months after announcing its ambitious $250 million expansion plan in Oman, SNF, the polyacrylamide worldwide market leader, has announced progress in delivering on its commitment to establish Oman as a regional hub for polymer production and research. The company has officially commenced the state-of-the-art initial phase of polymer production, with civil works beginning this month. With more than 20 years of in-country presence in the Sultanate of Oman, this project affirms the company’s focus on sustainability, innovation, and in-country value.
With the construction authorization now secured, the groundwork for SNF’s state-of-the-art initial polymer manufacturing phase has commenced, representing a pivotal milestone in the project's timeline and demonstrates its ability to transition quickly from planning to execution. The facility, designed to produce high-performance anionic polymers, will play a key role in enhancing chemical enhanced oil recovery (EOR) capabilities and meeting the fast-growing needs of regional clients.
The construction phase is expected to progress swiftly, with the plant projected to enable local employment opportunities, generate in-country value, and establish Oman as a key player in the Middle East polymer market.
“This is an extraordinary step forward,” said a senior SNF executive. “We’ve moved from concept to tangible progress on the ground. The support from the Omani government and our local partners has been instrumental in reaching this stage.”
In parallel with the polymer plant construction, SNF’s Regional SNF Technical Centre (RSTC Oman) in Muscat has entered its final stages of development. Finishing work is nearing completion, and the delivery of highly advanced laboratory equipment is well underway. The RSTC is set to open in the first months of 2025, fulfilling its vision of serving as SNF’s GCC R&D hub. The centre will support oil and gas innovation in the region, focusing on polymer research for EOR, specializing in carbonate reservoirs, Water
Shut-Off, and other cutting-edge technologies. The facility will also provide critical technical support throughout the lifecycle of SNF’s projects, ensuring efficiency and sustainability.
In line with its commitment to in-country value, SNF has prioritized local recruitment and talent development. Through collaborations with Omani universities and institutions, SNF is fostering the next generation of experts in oilfield technologies and sustainability practices. “The RSTC is more than just a technical facility,” said the RSTC manager. “It’s a hub for knowledge exchange and skill development, creating long-term value for Oman’s workforce and industry.”
As the polymer plant and RSTC progress on schedule, SNF is poised to achieve several key milestones in 2025. These include the official opening ceremony of the RSTC in the first quarter, which will showcase its advanced facilities and highlight SNF’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. Furthermore, the launch of the first phase of polymer production in Oman will be a landmark event in 2025. This milestone represents SNF’s dedication to delivering cutting-edge solutions that cater to the evolving demands of the oil and gas industry.
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