MUSCAT, Jan 26, 2026 (GDM) – Senior Omani officials and global logistics giant DP World have aligned on next steps for a flagship economic zone designed to boost trade integration between Oman and the United Arab Emirates, the two sides announced Monday.
Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, Chairman of Oman’s Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ), met with Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO of DP World, in Muscat to review progress on the Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone.
The meeting focused on the implementation roadmap for Phase 1, covering approximately 14 square kilometres allocated for development. The zone’s master plan allows for expansion to 24 square kilometres in a second phase.
“The Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone represents a strategic platform for enabling seamless trade, industrial growth, and regional connectivity between Oman and the UAE,” said Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem in a statement.
Located in Oman’s Al Buraimi Governorate, the zone occupies a strategic position on key regional trade corridors, with direct road access and proximity to major hubs like Sohar Port and Dubai’s Jebel Ali Port.
The project, which saw its development agreement signed in May 2025, aims to attract investment in logistics, light manufacturing and industrial services. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to timely delivery, underscoring the zone’s expected role in job creation and supporting Oman’s long-term economic diversification strategy, Oman Vision 2040.- With inputs from WAM
