The Government of the Sultanate of Oman has embarked on an ambitious plan to strengthen its economy and secure a prosperous existence for its people. A key part of this plan is the diversification of the national economy from oil to non-oil resources. In considering options for diversification the policy makers were able to draw upon the heritage of Oman as a maritime trading nation. Therefore the establishment of new Port facilities is seen as an essential requirement to enable the Sultanate’s vast natural resources to be developed in sustainable ways, while protecting its distinctive forms of heritage, culture and natural environment.
The Sultanate of Oman has a long and proud maritime history. Seafarers and traders have navigated its coastline for centuries. Deep water is generally found within five miles of the shoreline. Few offshore dangers exist, and where they do they are well charted. A preliminary study has already identified the potential for a number of economic and commercial activities, notably heavy industry, oil refining, petrochemical processing, minerals, small and medium scale manufacturing, logistics, warehousing, fisheries, and so on.
In 2001 the Government of the Sultanate of Oman selected Duqm in the Al Wusta region as the location for a new shipyard and port complex. The Port of Duqm will be one of the major ports in Oman due to its strategic geographical location, situated midway between Muscat and Salalah, on the Arabian Sea. This makes it an attractive destination for commercial shipping en route between Asian, European and Middle Eastern ports. The project is a catalyst for development locally and regionally within the Al Wusta region. The Port and Shipyard will boost the Omani economy in terms of diversification and creation of job opportunities for Omani citizens.