Transport & Logistics
From The Report: Oman 2015
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Oman continues to capitalise on its geographical position, increasingly establishing itself as a major trans-shipment centre for traffic between Europe, Africa and Asia with ongoing development and expansion plans at various ports in the sultanate, particularly at Duqm where a new port and dry-dock are being developed. Coordinating this maritime-based growth with land and air-side growth is also under way, with the 2011-15 five-year development plan earmarking $15.5bn for the national rail project; $6.2bn for airport expansion; and $3.1bn for road network development. Plans to connect the national railway project with the GCC-wide rail network will boost integration in the region, while airport and road expansions will solidify Oman’s growing reputation as a logistics hub and encourage the sultanate’s growing tourism sector. This chapter contains interviews with Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Salim al Futaisi, Minister for Transport & Communications; and Paul Gregorowitsch, CEO, Oman Air.

Articles from this Chapter

Overview

Sector investments will contribute to economic diversification plans
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With the sultanate’s grid of air, land and sea connections unrecognisable in comparison to what it was just a generation ago, Oman’s transport infrastructure has seen some spectacular growth in recent years. The country is not resting on its laurels, either. Ambitious plans to boost airports, construct new maritime terminals, create a faster, better road network and to play a major part in the region’s forthcoming new railway system will all help transform Oman – and the wider Middle East.…

Analysis

Upgrade of aviation infrastructure is under way
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A major wave of airport building and expansion is taking place, which is set to transform Oman’s international air transport profile. This is also a key pillar of its plans to diversify the economy away from hydrocarbons, giving a lift to everything from tourism to trade. Movers & Shakers The key body behind the airport expansion drive is the state-owned Oman Airports Management Company (OAMC). It is responsible for the management and operation of civilian airports, including their physical…

Interview

Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Salim Al Futaisi, Minister of Transport and Communications: Interview
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Interview:Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Salim Al Futaisi Considering Oman’s infrastructural needs, which projects require the most attention for the sultanate to reach its development goals? AHMED BIN MOHAMMED BIN SALIM AL FUTAISI: In light of the vision put forth to transform the transport sector into one that contributes heavily to GDP, all of our projects are equally important because they are so closely connected. If Oman wants to position itself as an advanced logistics centre recognised…

Analysis

Logistics sector set to benefit from improved connections
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The period ahead could well be a watershed moment for the logistics sector in Oman, as a series of recent developments in infrastructure and geopolitics begin to coalesce. These moves come alongside improvements in the efficiency of the local sector, pushing the sultanate closer still to its broader goal of becoming an international logistics centre. Sector Upgrades As detailed elsewhere in this chapter, Oman is in the midst of a major construction drive in its ports, airports, roadways and…

Interview

Paul Gregorowitsch, CEO, Oman Air: Interview
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Interview:Paul Gregorowitsch What criteria do you consider a priority when strategically positioning Oman Air to capitalise on the evolving aviation industry regionally? PAUL GREGOROWITSCH: Considering the aviation industry in the GCC, we must always expand our fleet and route portfolio. Planning and expanding routes is strategically important for all Gulf carriers, including Oman Air. We are planning to take advantage of the sultanate’s strategic central location and offer flights and…