Duqm – A delegation from the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) visited the Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD), where they met on Monday with H E Dr Ali bin Masoud al Sunaidy, Chairman of the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ), in the presence of Eng Ahmed bin Ali Akaak, CEO of SEZAD, and several officials from the Authority.

During the meeting, the aspects of cooperation and the strengthening of the partnership between the SFD and OPAZ were discussed. The mutual interests between OPAZ and SFD in investment fields and opportunities within SEZAD and other areas under the authority’s supervision were also reviewed.

The efforts made by OPAZ to implement several infrastructure projects aimed at enabling local and foreign investment in the region were highlighted, showcasing their contribution to attracting numerous local and foreign projects and increasing interest in investment in Duqm. For its part, the SFD delegation praised the growth seen in Duqm over the past years since their last visit and expressed their interest in enhancing cooperation with the authority.

Spanning three days, the visit offers an opportunity to review the progress of projects financed by the SFD in SEZAD, with a strong focus on the area’s recent developments. The delegation will also explore the region’s plans for future projects and how to integrate various elements to ensure economic sustainability and contribute to achieving Oman Vision 2040.

The delegation visited several projects, both ongoing and completed, including the Ras Markaz project and the Fisheries and Food Industries Complex, which are currently flagship projects in Duqm.

Abdulmajeed bin Abdullah al Ansari, General Manager of the Support Services Sector at OPAZ, said, “OPAZ and SFD are striving to enhance cooperation in all fields by exploring financing opportunities for several promising projects in the Special Economic Zone at Duqm. This visit by the delegation from the Saudi Fund for Development aims to strengthen this partnership and review the progress of the funded projects.”

Ansari noted that the SFD has made pioneering contributions to financing several major projects in the Sultanate of Oman, including funding for the construction of key roads and the infrastructure of the fishing port in the region.

OPAZ, through the relevant entities, continues to develop a strategic relationship with the SFD, exploring opportunities that will enhance benefits for companies in both countries from the infrastructure projects implemented by the Authority in SEZAD.

The Special Economic Zone at Duqm is an extraordinary industrial hub, a center of innovation, and a gateway to global trade. With a well-established track record of success, SEZAD is already playing a leading role in Oman’s new Renaissance as it brings to life the rich possibilities of Oman Vision 2040 by opening up the vast potential of the green economy and accelerating industry towards the opportunities of a tech-driven future.