MUSCAT: Omani ports have shown significant growth in the first half of 2025, reflecting the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology’s ongoing efforts to enhance port infrastructure and readiness in line with Oman Vision 2040. According to Muhanna bin Musa bin Baqer, Director General of Ports, the total container throughput at Salalah, Sohar, and Duqm ports reached 2,427,195 TEUs, marking an 11.7 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024. This rise is attributed to improved logistics efficiency and the ports’ capacity to handle increasing demand, reinforcing Oman’s strategic position in regional maritime trade.
The number of ships visiting Omani ports also grew, with 6,586 vessels recorded during the first half of 2025, up from 5,930 in the same period last year, reflecting an 11.1 percent increase. Key ports contributing to this growth include Sultan Qaboos Port, Shinas, and Salalah. This expansion in maritime traffic underscores the enhanced operational capabilities of Oman’s ports and their growing importance in international shipping networks, facilitating smoother import and export flows.
Cargo handling at Omani ports reached 70.1 million tons in the first half of 2025, up from 66.6 million tons in 2024, representing a 5.2 percent year-on-year growth. Vehicle arrivals totaled 50,248 units, while livestock imports reached 2,694,293 heads. These figures highlight the diverse range of goods managed efficiently by the country’s port system, reflecting the success of targeted infrastructure investments and the continuous improvement of operational standards to meet increasing global and regional trade demands.
Several major infrastructure projects are underway as part of Oman’s long-term strategic development plans. The Ministry awarded consultancy contracts for the Khor Jarama development project, aiming to enhance maritime utilization, and for the rehabilitation of Shannah and Masirah ports, focusing on dock, breakwater, and port access improvements. Additionally, new investment initiatives at Shinas Port, including a marine fuel processing and storage centre by Quadrilateral Marine Solutions and Systems Company, demonstrate a commitment to expanding specialized port facilities. These efforts collectively strengthen Oman’s competitiveness in the global logistics sector and support its position as a regional maritime hub.
