Hamdan Bin Mohammed Witnesses Signing Of Agreement To Develop Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone In Oman
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, witnessed the signing of an agreement to develop the Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone in Oman. This event took place during a UAE delegation's visit to Oman. The agreement marks a significant step in enhancing economic cooperation between the UAE and Oman.
The agreement was signed by Eng. Ahmed bin Hassan Al Dheeb from OPAZ and Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem of DP World, representing Mahadha Development Company. This joint venture will oversee the development of the zone, with DP World as the majority partner. The project aims to bolster economic ties between the two countries.
Eng. Ahmed bin Hassan Al Dheeb emphasised that the Al Rawdah Zone is designed to support key development goals like job creation and technology attraction. Its strategic location in Buraimi Governorate offers seamless connectivity to Sohar Port and Jebel Ali Port, enhancing logistics efficiency across Gulf, Asian, and African trade routes.
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem stated: "The Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone represents a new chapter in the growing economic relationship between the UAE and the Sultanate of Oman." He highlighted that this collaboration will strengthen trade ties while promoting sustainable growth.
The first phase of the project will cover 14 square kilometres, with plans to expand to 25 square kilometres in Phase 2. Mahadha Development Company will handle infrastructure development, master planning, and environmental studies. The zone will focus on diverse sectors like manufacturing, logistics, pharmaceuticals, and food processing.
The project aims to leverage its geographic location to enhance supply chains and logistics connectivity between Oman, the UAE, and international markets. It aligns with Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and Oman Vision 2040 by attracting foreign investment and boosting industrial output.
Economic Impact and Future Prospects
In 2024, non-oil trade between the UAE and Oman reached AED56 billion, a 9.8% increase from the previous year. The Al Rawdah Zone is expected to accelerate this trend by establishing an advanced ecosystem for trade and manufacturing.
DP World brings extensive experience in developing economic zones globally, including Jafza in Dubai. This expertise positions DP World to deliver a future-ready platform in Oman supported by OPAZ’s national strategy.
The signing ceremony was attended by several dignitaries including H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum; H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi; Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi; Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi; Omar bin Sultan Al Olama; Maryam bint Ahmed Al Hammadi; Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori; Abdulla Al Basti; Lieutenant General Talal Belhoul Al Falasi; and Helal Saeed Al Marri.
With inputs from WAM
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