MUSCAT: Oman's fisheries sector has continued its steady growth, recording a 7.5% increase from January to September 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. As one of the key sectors under the Tenth Five-Year Plan (2021-2025), fisheries play a critical role in economic diversification, food security and employment creation. The government aims to accelerate its annual growth to 10% and enhance its contribution to GDP by 2%, reinforcing Oman's position as a sustainable and competitive player in the global fisheries industry.
According to Dr Salem al Sheikh, spokesperson for the Ministry of Economy, the sector’s GDP contribution at constant prices reached RO 274.4 million, accounting for 1% of Oman's total GDP, which stood at RO 28.1 billion during the first three quarters of 2024. At current prices, the fisheries sector contributed RO 294 million, reflecting a 7.4% growth rate compared to the same period in 2023, when the total GDP stood at RO 30.64 billion. This sustained expansion has been driven by increased production, rising exports and significant government investments in infrastructure and sustainability initiatives.
Oman has achieved self-sufficiency in fish production, meeting domestic demand while boosting exports. Several major projects have contributed to this growth, including the fishing port and fish canning complex at Al Duqm, which serves as an industrial hub within the Special Economic Zone and the Al Khuwayma shrimp farm in Al Sharqiyah South Governorate, a key aquaculture project.
Additionally, efforts are underway to develop and modernise fishing ports across the country, enhancing their role in supporting marine-based economic activities. The Ministry of Economy is implementing several initiatives aimed at improving the fisheries business environment, increasing the sector’s economic value and attracting investment opportunities.
As part of the Tenth Five-Year Plan, the government has allocated RO 1.6 billion for 224 development projects covering fisheries, ports, water resources, dams and environmental protection.
Among these, the National Environmental Monitoring System has been introduced to track air, water and marine pollution, as well as greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, new programmes are being rolled out to support sustainable fisheries management, including initiatives to strengthen cooperation between fishermen and regulatory bodies, improve fishing boat and equipment subsidies and encourage more Omanis to enter the industry by enhancing working conditions and economic returns.
Research and innovation also play a crucial role in ensuring the sector’s long-term sustainability. The multi-purpose research vessel programme supports marine resource management by analysing fish populations and environmental changes, while fisheries research centres are being established in Musandam, Al Wusta and Muscat Governorates to promote biodiversity, aquaculture productivity and modern fishing technologies. These efforts aim to enhance Oman’s competitiveness in global food security markets while ensuring the sustainability of marine ecosystems.
Significant investments are also being made in port expansion projects to support the fisheries, tourism and logistics sectors. The Masirah Multi-Purpose Port, a key project awarded in 2024, is expected to increase fish production and stimulate new economic activities. In Musandam Governorate, Dibba Port has reached an 80% completion rate, positioning it as Oman’s second-largest multi-purpose port after Duqm. Other ports, including Lima, Kumzar, Raysut and Shannah, are being developed to enhance marine industries and create new business and job opportunities.
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