Al Wusta Governorate is strengthening investment across fisheries, ports, logistics and tourism as part of efforts to develop its blue economy and support Oman’s economic diversification strategy, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources.
The governorate is leveraging its extensive coastline, abundant marine resources and strategic location to build an integrated maritime economy that enhances the value of fish products while creating new investment and employment opportunities.
According to ministry data, Al Wusta remained Oman’s leading fish-producing governorate in 2024, with production reaching around 226,000 tonnes, accounting for 25 per cent of the Sultanate of Oman’s total fish output and valued at more than RO 100 million.
The sector supports more than 4,670 registered fishermen, alongside 2,357 fishing boats and 124 artisanal fishing vessels, underlining its importance to the local economy.
Israa bint Abdullah al Hadi, Fisheries Development Specialist at the ministry, said modern maritime infrastructure has played a key role in expanding the sector.
“The governorate’s maritime assets, including its extensive coastline, rich fish stocks and strategic location, have strengthened the fisheries sector, making it one of the key pillars of the blue economy”, she said.
She highlighted the role of Duqm Commercial Port and Duqm Multipurpose Fishing Port in improving fish landing, processing, storage and marketing, while strengthening logistics services and connecting Omani seafood to regional and international markets.
Al Hadi said integrating investments across fisheries, ports, logistics and tourism creates a connected economic system that maximises the value of marine resources, improves the competitiveness of products and services; and attracts further investment.
The approach also generates direct and indirect employment in fishing, seafood processing, transport, marketing and support services, while contributing to sustainable economic growth.
She added that the blue economy is strengthening local content by encouraging greater use of national products and services; and creating opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises in areas such as boat maintenance, logistics, seafood processing and marine tourism.
The ministry plans to expand fisheries, aquaculture and seafood processing projects while continuing to develop Al Duqm’s maritime and logistics infrastructure.
Future initiatives will also focus on enhancing supply chains, encouraging research and innovation in maritime industries and attracting additional investment linked to the Port of Duqm and the Special Economic Zone at Duqm, reinforcing Al Wusta’s position as one of Oman’s leading blue economy hubs in support of Oman Vision 2040.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
