Interview: Said bin Hamood bin Said Al Maawali
How is the National Logistics Strategy 2040 progressing in terms of positioning the country as a key logistics centre for the region?
SAID BIN HAMOOD BIN SAID AL MAAWALI: The sultanate of Oman’s long-term strategy for the transport sector is currently ahead of schedule. The aim is for the sector to contribute around 10% to the economy by 2040, and we are already approaching 7%. While this indicates progress, there is room for improvement. Our focus moving forwards includes enhancing second and third-party trade through better logistics integration across all air, sea and land entry points. We have focused on synchronising infrastructure to ensure seamless collaboration between seaports, airports and land borders. Historically, these assets operated in isolation, but regulatory measures and updated concession contracts include performance indicators that encourage cooperation.
Additionally, the sultanate of Oman is leveraging its maritime legacy to expand shipping-related activities and services. We recently introduced a dual maritime law that ranks among the 10 most shipowner-friendly in the world, attracting significant maritime traffic. Investment has also been directed towards mining-specific ports and smaller port facilities, enabling local trade and niche industrial activities. Technology is another major driver, with initiatives such as the port community system and land transport optimisation software already under way to improve operational efficiency.
Which steps is the government taking to enhance Oman’s road and rail connectivity, both within the country and across the wider GCC region?
AL MAAWALI: Road and rail connectivity remain integral to Oman Vision 2040. Internally, significant investment has been made to improve land transport, including systems to monitor and optimise road logistics. For instance, we have implemented land transport optimisation software to enhance goods transfer across borders and reduce inefficiencies for truck operators.
Regionally, the opening of a new land border with Saudi Arabia has been a turning point, significantly enhancing cross-border trade. Additionally, plans for GCC-wide rail connectivity are being considered to strengthen Oman’s position as a logistics centre.
In what ways are green transport solutions being integrated into infrastructure development?
AL MAAWALI: The transport sector accounts for 19% of Oman’s carbon emissions, with a net-zero emissions target by 2050. The sultanate of Oman has launched green initiatives to achieve this, including establishing electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure. We now have EV charging stations connecting the north to Muscat, with plans to reach a total of 350 charging points by 2027.
Hydrogen is another key focus. The first hydrogen refuelling station is now operational, marking a major milestone in Oman’s green mobility journey. We are also aiming for a fleet of hydrogen-powered airport taxis and a corridor exclusively for hydrogen trucks to be active by mid-2025. Ports are also transitioning towards sustainability, with plans to implement offshore power solutions and green bunkering facilities.
Where do you identify opportunities to further expand the aviation network?
AL MAAWALI: Oman’s aviation industry has made significant strides in recent years, and regional partnerships are central to expanding the aviation network. While we have established connections in Europe and South-east Asia, we are actively pursuing partnerships in underrepresented markets such as Africa and China. These efforts aim to increase Oman’s international reach and solidify its position as a regional aviation hub.
Additionally, we are leveraging our advanced maintenance, repair and overhaul facility to attract international operators. Plans are under way to auction this centre globally, aiming to further develop capabilities for aircraft repurposing and advanced certification.
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