Sohar Port and Freezone delivered sustained operational performance during the first half of 2026, recording total cargo throughput of 52mn metric tonnes, a 52% increase compared with the same period last year.

The strong first-half performance reflects Sohar Port and Freezone’s ability to respond to the requirements of regional and international trade through its integrated maritime, logistics and industrial ecosystem.

Sohar Port maintained solid performance across its diversified cargo portfolio during the period. Ship-to-ship cargo handling reached 24.38mn metric tonnes, reflecting continued demand for the port’s maritime services.

Container throughput increased by 40% to 545,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), primarily driven by higher transshipment activity, while breakbulk cargo nearly doubled to 1.24mn metric tonnes.

Although dry bulk volumes moderated during the period, the port handled 1,555 vessel calls, demonstrating operational resilience and reinforcing its role as a strategic gateway for regional and international trade.

Investment momentum continues

Execution of existing and expansion projects progressed across Sohar Port and Freezone during the first half of 2026, representing a combined investment value of RO2.62bn.

These investments are supporting the expansion of infrastructure and industrial capacity while strengthening Sohar Port and Freezone’s logistics ecosystem and long-term competitiveness.

In a press statement, Emile Hoogsteden, CEO of Sohar Port, said the first-half 2026 results reflect Sohar Port and Freezone’s ability to provide a platform for trade, industry and investment in the international trading environment.

He said, “The first half of 2026 demonstrates the adaptability of Sohar’s integrated port and freezone model and the strength of our long-term strategy. As trade continues to evolve, we remain committed to investing in world-class infrastructure, strengthening maritime connectivity, and enhancing operational excellence to ensure Sohar Port and Freezone continues to create long-term value for customers, partners, and the wider economy.”

These investments, Hoogsteden added, ensure Sohar Port and Freezone remains well positioned for future growth while reinforcing Oman’s position as a logistics and industrial hub.

Sohar Port and Freezone is one of the world’s fastest-growing integrated industrial and logistics hubs, strategically positioned to connect businesses to global markets and facilitate trade across diverse sectors.

With more than 20 years of operations, Sohar Port and Freezone has become a primary gateway for Oman’s import and export activities, contributing 2.6% to the nation’s GDP and creating around 42,000 direct and indirect jobs.

Sohar Freezone attracts over RO226mn in new investments

Sohar Freezone maintained its investment momentum during the first half of 2026, further strengthening its position as a strategic destination for industrial investment and regional trade.

Five new investment contracts, valued at RO226.47mn, were signed during the first half of 2026, reinforcing Sohar Freezone’s attractiveness to investors.

Leased warehouse space reached approximately 37,000 square metres, up 19% year-on-year, reflecting continued demand for industrial and logistics facilities within Sohar Freezone.

Dr Raid Al Rubaiey, CEO of Sohar Freezone and Deputy CEO of Sohar Port, said Sohar Freezone continues to strengthen its position as a preferred destination for high-value industrial investment.

He said, “Our ambition extends beyond attracting investment; it is about creating lasting economic value through high-quality industrial development. We remain focused on attracting industries that build on Oman’s industrial base, deepen local and regional value chains, and contribute to sustainable economic growth.

“By continuously enhancing our investment environment, we are reinforcing Sohar Port and Freezone’s role as a catalyst for industrial development and economic diversification in line with Oman Vision 2040.”