Shipping Arabia, November 11, 2026 – Oman’s Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) has launched a workshop to improve Port of Duqm operations and attract new shipping services. The initiative also aims to increase cargo volumes, reduce operational delays and strengthen the port’s links with industrial and commercial investment.
OPAZ organized the workshop in cooperation with the Industrial Innovation Academy. Taking place in Muscat until November 15, it brings together more than 100 participants from 21 government and private-sector organizations.
The program covers nine development tracks under three main areas: service projects, investment projects and general enablers. Participants will examine operational, investment and regulatory challenges before developing implementation plans with defined responsibilities, deadlines and performance indicators.
Improving Port of Duqm Operations and Shipping Connectivity
The service projects component focuses on improving the efficiency of Port of Duqm operations. Participants will examine how to simplify port procedures, resolve overlapping institutional responsibilities and strengthen cooperation between logistics service providers.
Key objectives include increasing cargo handling productivity and reducing both vessel turnaround times and cargo dwell times. The discussions will also address improvements to logistics operations.
In addition, the workshop will explore opportunities to attract new shipping lines and establish direct maritime services. These efforts form part of a wider initiative to increase trade through Duqm and improve coordination between the port and the surrounding economy.
Linking Port Growth with Industrial and Commercial Investment
The investment discussions cover targeted investment projects, projects located within the Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD) and projects involving leased sites.
Participants will identify priority investment sectors and review the zone’s master plan. They will also assess projects according to their development stages and examine obstacles affecting implementation and operations.
Through this process, OPAZ aims to accelerate investment and increase the contribution of industrial and commercial projects to port activity. The initiative seeks to strengthen the relationship between economic development within the zone and cargo volumes moving through the port.
Infrastructure, Investment Incentives and Governance
Infrastructure, incentives, governance and marketing account for the workshop’s four remaining development tracks.
The infrastructure discussions will assess development requirements and existing operational capacity. Meanwhile, participants will examine potential incentives to attract investors and increase maritime traffic.
The governance component will focus on clarifying institutional responsibilities and improving decision-making processes. Participants will also review monitoring arrangements and explore ways to strengthen Duqm’s competitive position in regional and international markets.
From Operational Assessment to Implementation
During the opening session, Dr. Ayman bin Abdullah al Fadhili, Chief Executive Officer of the Industrial Innovation Academy, presented an assessment of existing conditions, challenges and opportunities.
His presentation identified potential solutions and preliminary initiatives for participants to evaluate and develop throughout the workshop.
Qais bin Mohammed al Yousef, Chairman of OPAZ, attended the launch alongside members of the authority’s board and chief executives of special economic zones and free zones.
The workshop is expected to conclude with a portfolio of development projects and initiatives. Implementation schedules, key performance indicators and monitoring mechanisms will support the resulting plans to improve port operations, accelerate investment and strengthen Duqm’s maritime connectivity.
Source: Oman Observer