Muscat – Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) signed seven agreements and memoranda of understanding on Sunday to initiate operational activities in Economic Zone at Dhahirah (EZAD) marking a key step in the zone’s development.

Signed by Dr Ali bin Masoud al Sunaidy, Chairman of OPAZ, and contracting companies, the agreements include a RO22.3mn construction contract for main roads and a surface water drainage system. The 24-month contract was awarded to an Omani-Saudi consortium.

OPAZ also signed a strategic MoU with Sohar International Bank to provide financial solutions for investors. The agreement includes preferential offers for businesses, capital structuring services and access to OPAZ’s investor platform.

Two service level agreements were signed with Al Watanyiah United Engineering (Oman) and Dar al Riyadh (Saudi Arabia), engaging them to prepare architectural, structural and infrastructure designs for investor projects in EZAD, provide technical advice and feasibility studies, and assist with approvals.

Additionally, three MoUs were signed with Sohar International Bank, Poly Products and Naseem Ibra Company, expressing investment interest in the zone.

Yahya bin Khamis al Zadjali, Planning Advisor to Chairman of OPAZ, said the zone is intended to serve as an integrated industrial and logistics hub, connecting GCC markets and enhancing trade between Oman and Saudi Arabia.

“In cooperation with the Economic Cities and Special Zones Authority of Saudi Arabia, OPAZ has completed the master plan for EZAD,” Zadjali said. The first phase of development covers 20sqkm, including an urgent implementation area of 7.5sqkm within the total allocated 388sqkm.

Zadjali added that the long-term vision for the zone is to become a centre for advanced industrial sectors, with particular focus on clean energy as a core driver of development. “It will also serve as a logistics hub featuring an inland port and include a residential area designed with focus on environmental sustainability and community well-being, offering modern living amenities and essential services for both residents and workers.”

The RO22.3mn road and drainage contract includes construction of 17km of roads, solar street lighting, storm water channels and a 6.3km diversion channel for wadi protection. The scope of work includes box culverts, road reconstruction and safety infrastructure such as roundabouts and signage. 

The agreement mandates that at least RO1.23mn of the works be awarded to SMEs and requires an Omanisation rate of at least 30%, including in technical roles, to promote local workforce development.