SOHAR Port and Freezone

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March 26, 2023

SOHAR PORT AND FREEZONE PRESENTS 2022 HIGHLIGHTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE COMMUNITY

SOHAR Port and Freezone held its Annual Business Reception at The Chedi Muscat where it revealed excellent performance achievements and meaningful contributions to the community over the past year, with an impressive growth of Throughput by 11.3% year on year, reaching 77 million tons. Senior Management also presented SOHAR plans for the coming year and beyond as the complex continues to be a pioneer in Oman’s economic transformation.

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January 24, 2023

SOHAR PORT AND FREEZONE BOOSTS RESILIENCE WITH LAUNCH OF SOHAR EMERGENCY RESPONSE ORGANISATION

To elevate emergency preparedness and response, including firefighting services, for all SOHAR facilities and tenants, SOHAR Port and Freezone has launched Sohar Emergency Response Organisation. A signing ceremony was organized to mark this milestone under the patronage of H.E. Engineer Khamis bin Mohammed Al Shamakhi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology for Transport.

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December 04, 2022

SOHAR PORT AND FREEZONE REGISTERS STRONG SET OF RESULTS AS IT POISES ITSELF FOR 2023

SOHAR Port and Freezone has announced Strong results for the third quarter of 2022 as the Port throughput (export & import) reported an increase by 32% over the same period last year.

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November 02, 2022

SOHAR Improves Supply Chain Efficiency With The Launch Of New Routescanner Platform

SOHAR Port and Freezone has launched its new ‘Routescanner’ platform, an integrated global shipping route planner that will allow shippers and forwarders to view all available shipping routes in a single easy-to-use platform.

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October 25, 2022

SOHAR Host Seafarers Provider Meeting

SOHAR Port and Freezone recently brought together all Port and Marine Service Providers with their seafarers at the service jetty to show the port’s gratitude for their 24/7 support to the Port operations and marine services. In total, seven businesses were represented, from a diverse range of roles including Towage, Linesmen, Supply boats, Diving, duty free shop etc.

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October 13, 2022

In A Historic Visit Of President Of Zanzibar To Asyad Group’s Port And Freezone In Sohar Asyad’s Story Of Logistics Excellence Retold

The President of Zanzibar, His Excellency Dr. Hussain Ali Mwinyi, together with his presidential delegation visited Asyad Group at SOHAR Port and Freezone. During the knowledge-sharing vis-it, Asyad Group showcased its role as Oman’s logistics arm offering competitive advantages and world-class solutions to promote trade and economic activities between the Sultanate of Oman and Zanzibar.

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September 23, 2022

SOHAR INSPIRES THE YOUTH TO GET ACTIVE AT UPCOMING SOHAR HALF MARATHON

Leading the generations of tomorrow, SOHAR Port and Freezone will sponsor 300 students and 20 employees at the upcoming Sohar Half Marathon, taking place on 23 September 2022. Organised by Excellence Performance, the Sohar Half Marathon aims to enrich the youth of the Al Batinah North governorate and promote a healthy and active lifestyle. SOHAR will sponsor 50 students from Grade 7 and 8 to participate in the 3km race, 150 students from Grade 9 and above to take part in the 10km race, and 100 students from colleges and universities in the governorate to enter the Sohar Half Marathon event.

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August 25, 2022

FERTILIZER PRODUCER INVESTS OMR 2.2 MILLION IN SOHAR FREEZONE

SOHAR Freezone has signed a land lease agreement with Integrated Solutions Plant and Land Services (FZC) LLC for 15,000 sqm within the freezone to establish a liquid fertilizer plant. The project represents an investment of OMR 2.2 million and it includes the potential for future expansion which would see the plant produce ammonium sulphate to strengthen Oman’s export sector, especially in Pakistan and Tanzania.

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August 08, 2022

SOHAR Port and Freezone Presents Fifth Webinar with FICCI Focusing on Logistics

SOHAR Port and Freezone hosted the fifth and final webinar in its series with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) and the Federation of Indian Export Organizations (FIEO), called “Trade and Logistics Solutions via SOHAR Port and Freezone to Maximize Your Market Reach”. The series, which commenced in 2021, has covered a range of topics including metals, food, and logistics highlighting the potential avenues for further bi-lateral trade between Oman and India.

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June 27, 2022

SOHAR PORT AND FREEZONE SUPPORTS OCCI HORIZONS OF ARCHITECTURE FORUM

SOHAR Port and Freezone took part in the ‘Horizons of Architecture’ forum, organized by the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) in Suhar to explore architectural, engineering and construction solutions required for further growth in the governorate. Held at Majan Hall in Suhar from 27-28 June 2022 under the theme ‘Construction – Sustainability, Opportunities and Entrepreneurship’

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June 22, 2022

SOHAR Freezone and Alfardan Holding signs agreement to expand automotive cluster

SOHAR Port and Freezone has signed a land lease agreement with Alfardan Holding LLC for 3.5 hectares within the SOHAR Freezone automotive cluster. The area will primarily serve as a stockyard for both Alfardan Motors LLC and Premium Motors LLC, the authorized dealers of Audi, Volkswagen, Maserati and Ferrari in Oman and part of the Alfardan Group of companies, the official importer for Rolls-Royce, Land Rover, MINI, Aston Martin, BMW, Ferrari, Maserati, Fiat, Abarth and Alfa Romeo in Qatar. Premium Motors Logistic will also begin development on a pre-delivery inspection (PDI) unit on-site at a later stage, ensuring all vehicles delivered to dealerships and customers meet the highest standards.

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June 15, 2022

SOHAR SIGNS EXPANSION AGREEMENT WITH GENERAL CARGO TERMINAL OPERATOR C. STEINWEG OMAN LLC

SOHAR Port and Freezone has signed an agreement with C. Steinweg Oman LLC (CSO) which will see the General Cargo Terminal Operator expand its storage area with 27 hectares (270,000 m2), in order to anticipate further growth, amongst others to facilitate the growing demand for minerals. The expansion agreement represents a further investment in SOHAR Port and Freezone by the C. Steinweg Group and further strengthens SOHAR’s position as the leading export facility for minerals.

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June 13, 2022

Sohar Steel Rolling to construct OMR 7 million plant at SOHAR Freezone

SOHAR Port and Freezone has signed an agreement with Sohar Steel Rolling to lease approximately 40,000 sqm of land for the construction of a steel rod manufacturing unit at the Freezone. With an estimated total investment of OMR 7 million, the project includes the construction of facilities for melting/smelting in the first phase and steel rolling in the second phase. Anticipated to be in operation towards Q3, 2023 the project is expected to create considerable opportunities for business collaborations, while adding to the growing number of leased areas in SOHAR Freezone flourishing metals cluster.

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May 29, 2022

First investment project of information technology at SOHAR Freezone SOHAR Freezone Signs Agreement for Construction of Cloud Data Centre

SOHAR Port and Freezone has signed an agreement with China’s United Projects Achievement (FZC) LLC for the lease of 25000 sqm of land at the Freezone on which a new Cloud Data Centre is to be constructed. The data centre will include a multi-functional server room combined with artificial intelligence, big data, and cloud computing. Anticipated to be in operation towards the end of 2022, Cloud Data Centre will be the first investment project of information technology at SOHAR Freezone.

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May 09, 2022

SOHAR FREEZONE DRIVES GROWTH WITH NEW INCENTIVES FOR TENANTS

SOHAR Freezone has introduced new incentives to help businesses start trading with the world immediately. Until the end of 2022, new and renewing tenants can purchase a General Trade Licenses (GTLs) for one, two or three years at up to 50% of the usual cost. SOHAR is also offering a complete working solution for companies looking to relocate to the complex through its commercial office partner, Corporate Parks, which offers a reduction of between 30% and 45% in office rental rates for up to three years

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April 10, 2022

SOHAR Freezone Welcomes New Project to Emerging Pharmaceuticals Cluster

SOHAR Freezone and Penicillin General Integrated Industrial Company have celebrated the signing of a Land Lease Agreement which will see the creation of a pharma project within the Freezone. Penicillin General Integrated Industrial Company will establish a factory for the manufacture of Penicillin-G and 6-APA, key chemical compounds in the most widely used group of antibiotics. Under the agreement, Penicillin General Integrated Industrial Company will also build an Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) to treat wastewater and reuse it in their process, which will boost sustainability efforts.

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March 31, 2022

The Board of Directors of SOHAR Port and Freezone welcomes new CEO to SOHAR Port

The Board of Directors of SOHAR Port and Freezone announced the appointment of Emile Hoogsteden as the new Chief Executive Officer of SOHAR Port, a joint venture of the Port of Rotterdam Authority and ASYAD Group. Emile succeeds Mark Geilenkirchen effective 1 July 2022, bringing a solid track record of building and managing robust business strategies in the global logistics’ industry. His stellar background will continue to pave the way for more growth opportunities for the port and tenants at SOHAR.

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March 29, 2022

HYDROGEN RISE AND JINDAL SHADEED IRON & STEEL TO EVALUATE LANDMARK TRIAL OF GREEN HYDROGEN IN THE PRODUCTION OF ENVIRONMENT-FRIENDLY STEEL IN SOHAR

Hydrogen Rise, Jindal Shadeed Iron & Steel and SOHAR Port and Freezone have signed an agreement to evaluate the development of the first green hydrogen plant at Sohar, which will decarbonize the steel production process at Jindal Shadeed´s steel manufacturing plant. Together, the partners will assess the potential to produce steel in a completely sustainable manner to reduce emissions, lower the complex’s carbon footprint and preserve gas reserves for other applications across the country. After conducting techno-economic feasibility studies, the first phase will include the operation of a 35MW electrolyser capacity by mid-2024, paired with a solar renewable energy plant. Following this first phase, an upscaling path to a potential 350 MW electrolysis capacity will be evaluated.

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March 16, 2022

SOHAR Port and Freezone Demonstrates Environmental Efforts during Oman Sustainability Week

SOHAR Port and Freezone took part in Oman Sustainability Week alongside the ASYAD Group to share the success of environmentally conscious practices introduced throughout the complex and prove its commitment to sustainability. As industries move towards cleaner forms of energy, SOHAR has developed strategic programmes to improve health and education, create jobs, reduce inequality and spur economic growth.

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March 15, 2022

OMAN SAIL AND SOHAR PORT AND FREEZONE WRAP UP SOHAR WORKS INITIATIVE

SOHAR Port and Freezone in collaboration with Oman Sail and celebrated the success of SOHAR Works, a graduate development programme run in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour, with a closing ceremony held under the patronage of H.E. Sheikh Saif bin Hamir Al-Malek al Shuhi, Governor of Al Batinah North, at the Sohar Radisson Blu.

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January 30, 2022

SUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY REMAINED AT THE HEART OF SOHAR’S ACTIVITIES IN 2021

SOHAR Port and Freezone continued to make a telling contribution to the community throughout 2021, helping with local initiatives, Cyclone Shaheen recovery and COVID-19 efforts. Despite a turbulent year, SOHAR strengthened its bond with the community through a series of social efforts designed to have a long-term, sustainable benefits for all sectors, maintaining a perfect balance between expanding operations, people and the planet.

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January 26, 2022

SOHAR’S INDIAN WEBINAR SERIES FORGES NEW METAL PARTNERSHIPS

SOHAR Port and Freezone hosted the third webinar in its series with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) with a focus on the growing metals industry. The webinars have increased visibility in the Indian market and highlighted the potential avenues for further trade between SOHAR and Indian businesses by highlighting SOHAR Port and Freezone’s strategic advantages, the opportunities in downstream metal operations and sharing success stories from Indian companies based in and already trading with SOHAR.

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January 02, 2022

SOHAR SIGNS FIRST ANIMAL VACCINE MANUFACTURING FACILITY LAND LEASE AGREEMENT

SOHAR Freezone signed a Land Lease Agreement with the National Veterinary Vaccine Company (NVVCO) to establish its first animal vaccine manufacturing facility at the Freezone.

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December 26, 2021

SOHAR SIGNS MOU TO SUPPLY UTAS SUHAR WITH NEW AI LAB

SOHAR Port and Freezone signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS) in Suhar which will see the development of an AI Lab on campus. Signed by HE. Dr. Saeed bin Hamad Al Rubaie, Vice Chancellor of the University Technology and Applied Sciences and Omar bin Hamood Al Mahrizi, Deputy CEO SOHAR Port and CEO of the Freezone, the agreement will see SOHAR supply the necessary equipment to develop artificial intelligent technology capabilities to benefit the community as well as improve efficiency within the port and freezone. It is expected that the lab will start operations by end of Q1 2022.

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December 21, 2021

SOHAR SUCCESSFULLY CONDUCTS EMERGENCY RESPONSE EXCERCISE TO INCREASE PREPAREDNESS

SOHAR Port and Freezone in coordination with the Civil Defence and Ambulance (PACDA) conducted its annual emergency response field exercise. Held in collaboration with Safety Region Rotterdam, the Port’s strategic partner for safety management, and SOHAR’s Health, Safety, Security and Environment (HSSE), the teams simulated a life-like emergency scenario at the Hutchison Ports terminal. Emergency response teams from companies in the Port including OQ, Vale, SIUCI, OMC and Jindal Shadeed participated to ensure that they know how to respond quickly and effectively to any crisis or incident and are able to work together using the mutual aid system. The various scenarios comprised of a fire combined with a release of hazardous materials. Both were successfully handled by the specialized teams and in fact demonstrated a high level of readiness.

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December 13, 2021

SOHAR PORT AND FREEZONE MAINTAINS MOMENTUM DURING CHALLENGING PERIOD FOR GLOBAL MARKETS

SOHAR Port and Freezone continued to make solid progress in the first nine months of 2021 despite a global downturn in trade and supply chain disruption.

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October 26, 2021

SOHAR Port to Present Next Steps on Marine Service Growth to Shipping Agents

SOHAR Port recently held its Annual Shipping Agents Meeting to provide progress updates to more than 40 regional and international partners and discuss innovative ways to attract business to the Port. During the meeting, the Port also conducted a signing ceremony for Ship Chandling licenses with three new partners: Seven Seas Ship Chandlers LLC, Al Diyafah Supplies & Services Co. LLC, and Mars Marine Services. The three companies will provide general ship supplies, spare parts to the shipping lines.

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September 29, 2021

SOHAR PORT & FREEZONE PARTNERS WITH OMAN CRICKET TO SPONSOR ICC T-20 WORLD CUP TOUR

SOHAR Port and Freezone has joined hands with Oman Cricket to sponsor the forthcoming ICC Men’s T-20 World Cup, taking place in Oman and the UAE between 17 October and 14 November 2021. His Excellency Abdulsalam Al Murshidi, Minister of Oman Investment Authority, His Excellency Basil Bid Ahmed Al Rawas, Undersecretary of Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth attended the signing ceremony in preparation to kick-off the first global event to be held in Oman.

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August 31, 2021

SOHAR’S INDIAN WEBINAR LEADS TO NEW AVENUES OF INVESTMENT

SOHAR Port and Freezone recently held the second webinar in its series with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) designed to increase visibility in the Indian market and highlight trade opportunities between SOHAR and Indian businesses. Conducted online, the webinar explored opportunities in SOHAR’s rapidly growing food cluster, an industry that has already yielded mutual benefits for Indian exporters and Omani distributors. It also featured three local success stories from Sohar Flour Mills, Oman Oilseeds Crushing Company SAOC and Al-Hosn Logistics and Warehousing Services.

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August 29, 2021

SOHAR PORT SIGNS BUNKERING AGREEMENT WITH HORMUZ MARINE

SOHAR Port and Freezone and Hormuz Marine have signed a bunkering agreement which will see the launch of bunkering services at Sohar Port. The agreement comes in response to the growing need for offshore refueling, allowing vessels to bunker efficiently and speed up global shipping times at the port.

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August 15, 2021

SOHAR PORT AND FREEZONE CONTINUES STEADY GROWTH TO BOOST ITSELF AS AN INTERNATIONAL LOGISTICS HUB

Building on its positive momentum, SOHAR Port and Freezone has announced encouraging results for the second quarter of 2021. Among them, it reported that the Port’s handling of goods in and out of the Sultanate (throughput) increased by 14% over the same period in 2020 and Ship-to-Ship (STS) cargo increased by an impressive 168%.

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July 13, 2021

SOHAR LOOKS TO EXPLORE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE INDIAN MARKET

SOHAR Port and Freezone, in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), has launched a series of five online webinars to explore opportunities between SOHAR and the Indian market. In the following months, four more webinars will be conducted targeting the various key industries such as Food, Automotive, Plastics and Metals.

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July 08, 2021

CONTINUING TO ENJOY STEADY GROWTH\ SOHAR PORT & FREEZONE IS TRANSFORMING THE SULTANATE’S CAPACITY FOR WORLDWIDE TRADE

SOHAR Port and Freezone has announced impressive results for the first quarter of 2021, recording growth in all categories of cargo in Q1 2021 over the same period last year. As the rapidly growing complex continues to transform the Sultanate’s burgeoning maritime and logistics industries, it reported that throughput increased by 21% over the same period in 2020, dry bulk volume grew by 25% to almost 9 million tons, breakbulk handling grew by 7% to 426,783 and liquid bulk increased by 7% to just over 4 million tons. The number of handled containers increased by 1.8% to 197,000 TEU. In addition, the port also recorded spectacular growth of 200% increase in Ship-to-Ship (STS) cargo given its strategic location and its reputation for delivering unmatched quality of service with quick turnaround times with our ever growing STS Customer base. “The year-on-year throughput growth at SOHAR Port and Freezone has transformed the Sultanate’s capacity for worldwide trade. The first quarter results for 2021 show that there is very strong demand for raw materials for industry and consumer goods, fuelled by the recovery of economies around the world. Our robust business continuity strategy and advantageous position at the crossroads of global trade routes has helped us to manage increased levels of cargo traffic and ensure a seamless and uninterrupted flow of operations to support the national economy,” said Mark Geilenkirchen, Chief Executive Officer of SOHAR Port. Omar Mahmood Al Mahrizi, CEO of SOHAR Freezone, Deputy CEO of SOHAR Port, added, “SOHAR is positioned as a logistics gateway and is integral to bringing in the requisite goods to clients within the freezone and industries in the region relying on a steady flow of materials. Further expansion of the port will increase Oman’s role as an international trade hub allowing us to attract more leading global partners and establish ourselves as the ideal location for business outside the Gulf.”

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June 20, 2021

SOHAR Port and Freezone Ink Strategic MoU with Brazilian Port of Pecém

SOHAR Port and Freezone have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Port of Pecém in Cear?, one of Brazil’s top ten major ports. The agreement will allow the entities to collaboratively advance their global maritime and logistics operations, enacting a number of shared objectives including the exploration of joint business opportunities, the exchange of knowledge and best practices, and developing technologies for green hydrogen and other renewables, in cooperation with its shareholders, Port of Rotterdam and ASYAD. As one of the world’s fastest-growing ports, the tie-up reinforces SOHAR growth strategy while strengthening its position as a key logistics hub in the region and beyond.

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May 23, 2021

SOHAR Continues to Attract Foreign Investment Despite Turbulent Market Conditions

Despite the current challenging market conditions resulting from the pandemic and fluctuating oil prices, SOHAR Port and Freezone reported an increase in cargo volume and overall performance in 2020. The port recorded a 1% increase in the number of containers that reached the port, whilst breakbulk increased by 18.2%, liquid bulk by 5.9% and dry bulk by 1.5%. In addition, the port also recorded 100% growth in Ship-to-Ship (STS) cargo given its strategic location and its reputation for delivering unmatched quality of service with quick turnaround times.

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May 17, 2021

Vale - Key Partner of SOHAR Port and Freezone - Celebrates Tenth Anniversary of Operations in Oman

Vale, one of the world’s largest mining companies, situated at SOHAR Port and Freezone, is celebrating this month, its tenth year in operation in Oman. Vale launched the initial stages of its industrial complex at SOHAR in April 2011, marking a high point in an era of big-ticket industrial investments.

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April 08, 2021

Inauguration of the regional molecular PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) laboratory in the North Al Batinah Governorate

Under the patronage of His Excellency Dr Ahmed Al Saeedi, Minister of Health, the Ministry of Health saw the inauguration of the regional molecular PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) laboratory in the North Al Batinah Governorate on 8th April. The PCR laboratory is a joint CSR project, in coordination with existing tenants at SOHAR Port, who will collectively support the development of the project. The tenants include OQ, Oiltanking Terminals, Sohar Power Company, C. Steinweg Oman, Majis Industrial Services and Sohar International Urea and Chemical Industries.

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April 04, 2021

SOHAR – One of the First Ports in the World to Implement State-of-the-Art “Light on-Demand” Technology within its Complex

Aligned with its vision to support sustainable and innovative initiatives, SOHAR Port and Freezone is one of the first ports in the world to have installed a “Light on-Demand” system. The implementation of this project, the first-of-its-kind in the region, positions SOHAR as pioneers in the sector. Apart from promoting a low carbon footprint, the LED luminaires have successfully reduced energy consumption by 80%.

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March 22, 2021

SOHAR Port Signs Development Agreement with MISCO

SOHAR Port and Freezone has signed a land development agreement with Moon Iron & Steel Company SAOC (MISCO). The signing took place between Mr. Mark Geilenkirchen, CEO of SOHAR Port and Mr. Sasikumar Moorkanat, Managing Director & CEO of MISCO. The overall project will see the construction of 700m quay wall for an upcoming facility in the eastern area at SOHAR Port, set to begin at the end of December, 2021.

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February 24, 2021

SOHAR Reveals its CSR Report for 2020

SOHAR Port and Freezone published its Corporate Social Responsibility report for the year 2020, which outlines the company’s activities to support society and the environment, in accordance with its sustainable strategy plan.

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February 17, 2021

SOHAR and Hutchison Ports to Jointly Conduct a Study for SOHAR Port Expansion

In line with implementing the Sultanate’s aspirations to increase revenue from the logistic sector, in accordance with the objectives of ‘Oman Vision 2040’, SOHAR Port and Freezone signed a Development Agreement with Hutchison Ports Sohar.

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February 14, 2021

OMAN POST ASYAD EXPRESS TO OPEN A SERVICE CENTRE FOR ECOMMERCE SERVICES AT SOHAR PORT AND FREEZONE

As part of building e-commerce capabilities, Oman Post ASYAD Express, a member of ASYAD Group, has signed an SLA (Service Level Agreement) with SOHAR Port and Freezone, the up-and-coming gateway to the GCC region, to open the company’s first service center for postal and e-commerce services.

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January 26, 2021

SOHAR Signs Agreement for a Development of Ceramic Tiles Manufacturing Facility

SOHAR Port and Freezone entered into an agreement with Eagle Ceramics FZC LLC on January 26. The signing took place at the office of the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ), under the patronage of HE Eng. Ahmed Hassan Alawi Al Dheeb, Deputy Chairman of OPAZ.

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January 12, 2021

SOHAR Signs MoU with Ministry of Health to equip PCR Laboratory

SOHAR Port and Freezone entered into an agreement with the Ministry of Health, together with the support of six SOHAR tenants, for equipping a regional molecular PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) laboratory in the North Al Batinah Governorate. The laboratory is set to be operational by Q1 2021.

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December 02, 2020

World-class logistics services to be availed in SOHAR Freezone through partnership between Matrix Prime Logistics and Aramex Logistics LLC

Matrix Prime Logistics (FZC) LLC, a warehousing and logistics service provider established at SOHAR Freezone, signed an agreement with Aramex Logistics LLC ; a global leader in providing transportation and logistics solutions, according to which Aramex will act as the tenant’s service provider and handle relevant logistics operations.

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November 29, 2020

SOHAR Port and Freezone Launches SOHAR Works Programme in Partnership with Oman Sail

SOHAR Port and Freezone, in collaboration with its tenants, kicked-off the SOHAR Works Graduate Development Programme through Zoom on November 29. Launched under the patronage of Dr Mahad Said Ali Ba’owain, Minister of Labour, the programme stems from the commitment of SOHAR to support the development of a strong Omani workforce, provide relevant training and increase the generation of job opportunities.

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November 18, 2020

SOHAR Port and Freezone Playing a Pivotal Role in Achieving the Objectives of the Oman Vision 2040 and the Sultanate’s Logistics Strategy

SOHAR Port and Freezone is renowned as one of the largest industrial and logistic projects in the Sultanate. Since the establishment of the Port sixteen years ago, and the establishment of the adjacent Freezone ten years ago, SOHAR has attracted a total of over OMR 10.4 billion (USD 27 billion) worth of investment, valued as of mid-2020. This was a positive reflection of the company’s contribution towards achieving the Sultanate’s development goals and economic diversification efforts within the industrial and logistics sectors. These sectors are considered vital for the growth of the national economy, in addition to its pioneering role in generating more local job opportunities.

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August 17, 2020

SOHAR Port and Freezone Announces Q2 Results

The implementation of its business continuity plan has seen SOHAR Port and Freezone maintain its operations and deliver high-quality services to its tenants and vessels that travel via its complex, despite the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on global markets. Q2 saw an increase of 112% in STS throughput, compared to the values of Q2 in 2019. This has resulted in a growth of STS operations by 16% and anchorage calls by 4%, a rise that is the result of SOHAR’s strategic location as gateway between the East and West and a myriad of direct connections to ports around the world.

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July 07, 2020

SOHAR Port and Freezone Launches Tasheel

In line with the directives of the Omani Government, SOHAR Port and Freezone continues to digitalise its services in order to offer its tenants with high-quality services as well as ease of doing business. In this regard, an easy-to-use online permit management platform, “Tasheel” was officially launched on July 7 by HE Dr Mohammed bin Nasser

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May 21, 2020

SOHAR Witnesses Surge in Cargo Throughput for Q1

Despite the current situation surrounding the prevalence of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), SOHAR Port and Freezone has reported an increase in cargo volume and a significant performance for the first quarter of 2020. Break bulk rose to 18% and liquid bulk to 2%, as compared to statistics of Q1 2019

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May 19, 2020

SOHAR Signs Agreement to Establish SERO

Despite the current unprecedented situation due to the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, the management team at SOHAR Port and Freezone affirms that business continues to operate as usual, while implementing the highest preventive measures at SOHAR facilities in line with directives of the Supreme Committee.

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April 26, 2020

SOHAR Port and Freezone Strengthens Efforts to Supply Local Market

The management team at SOHAR Port and Freezone affirms the continuation of its business operations, despite the current health crisis surrounding the outbreak of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

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April 19, 2020

STRATEGICALLY LOCATED OMANI PORT JOINS SEA-LNG

SOHAR joins SEA-LNG to promote its investment in LNG bunkering facilities and the use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a marine fuel. SEA-LNG is the leading multi-sector industry coalition, created to accelerate the widespread adoption of LNG. MARSA LNG, a venture comprised of TOTAL S.A. and OQ, is developing a state of the art LNG liquefaction plant and bunkering facility in SOHAR Port.

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March 04, 2020

SOHAR Port and Freezone Brings in USD 27 Billion Dollars of Investment

SOHAR conducted its annual Business Reception at The Chedi Muscat on Tuesday, March 3. During the event, SOHAR also looked back over its achievements in the past year while also shedding light on future plans that will take place in the upcoming year. The event was conducted

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February 22, 2020

SOHAR Kicks-Off the Kids Race at the Al Mouj Muscat Marathon

Continuing in its firm commitment to implement initiatives that embrace health and wellness, SOHAR Port and Freezone, in collaboration with Oman Sail and the Directorate General of Education in North Batinah region brought 876 children and 18 families to take part in the Kid’s Run at the Al Mouj Muscat Marathon.

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February 19, 2020

SOHAR Signs License Agreement with Albwardy Damen

In line with its commitment to provide high-quality vessel services, SOHAR entered into an agreement with Albwardy Damen on February 12. The signing took place SOHAR Port and Freezone Head Office, with Mark Geilenkirchen, CEO of SOHAR Port representing SOHAR and Mr. Ibrahim Mohamed Al Shidi, representing Albwardy Damen. The agreement will see the installation of a 40-foot workshop container at a service jetty in the Port and will be Albwardy Damen’s fourth operational location in the Middle East.

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February 18, 2020

SOHAR Conducts “SOHAR Freezone Links”

SOHAR Port and Freezone conducted yesterday- Monday, February 17, 2020- its Freezone gathering, titled, “SOHAR Freezone Links”, aimed to strengthen existing relationships between investors and partners in the Freezone, as well as reviewing the latest updates and regulations that assist them in performing their businesses.

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December 12, 2019

SOHAR Receives ISO 55001 Certification in Asset Management

SOHAR Port and Freezone has recently been awarded the International Certificate of Asset Management System (ISO 55001) from Lloyd’s Register Group. The certification positions SOHAR as a forerunner in the sector, making it the first port in the Middle East to receive the accolade.

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December 09, 2019

SOHAR Signs Second Plot Lease Agreement with Matrix Prime Logistics (FZC)

SOHAR Port and Freezone signed an agreement with Matrix Prime Logistics (FZC) on December 3, for the development of Phase 2 of the warehousing project, which commenced its operations in 2018.

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November 05, 2019

SOHAR Port and Freezone Hosts 15th Anniversary Celebration

SOHAR Port and Freezone celebrated its 15th Anniversary in a glittering ceremony at the Kempinski Hotel Muscat, on November 4, 2019.

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October 29, 2019

SOHAR Signs Agreement for the Creation of a Quartz Manufacturing Plant

SOHAR Port and Freezone signed a Land Lease Agreement for the establishing a quartz manufacturing plant on October 24 with Madhav Surfaces LLC, a joint venture between Al Khanjar Commercial Agencies LLC, a subsidiary of Khimji Ramdas LLC, and Madhav Ashok Ventures Private Limited (MAVPL) based in India.

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October 27, 2019

SOHAR Signs Agreement with Gulf Alloys and Metals (FZC) LLC

SOHAR Port and Freezone has entered into an agreement with Gulf Alloys and Metals for the creation of a low carbon ferrochrome alloy production facility at SOHAR Freezone.

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October 10, 2019

SOHAR Conducts Ground Breaking of RFX Parks Development

Phase one construction has begun and with plans of subsequent phases in the pipeline Muscat, October 10, 2019: SOHAR Port and Freezone, in collaboration with RFX Industrial Parks LLC, recently held a ground breaking ceremony to launch the Phase 1 onsite construction of the RFX Industrial Parks project. It will provide integrated services in the supply chain through strategic 3PL or 4PL partnerships. This represents a qualitative leap in the field of logistic services offered in the SOHAR Port and Freezone.

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October 08, 2019

SOHAR Hosts Official Pilot Boat Inauguration Ceremony

SOHAR Port and Freezone, recently held its official pilot boat inauguration ceremony on October 7 at the SOHAR administration building.

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September 22, 2019

SOHAR Signs Agreement for the Establishment of a Unique Cement Facility

SOHAR Port and Freezone signed land lease agreement for the establishment of a cement block products facility on October 20th.

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July 23, 2019

SOHAR Initiates Greening Project to Enhance Environmental Conservation

Muscat, July **, 2019: In line with its principle of promoting and incorporating sustainable initiatives in the surrounding community, SOHAR Port and Freezone recently entered into a Service Level Agreement (SLA) with Sohar University and Qualies (the Organization for Quality and Innovation Strategies). The collaboration will see a tree planting initiative that will further the principle of ecological protection and management, alongside ensuring all the operations of SOHAR are in compliance with Omans sustainability objectives.

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July 15, 2019

SOHAR Holds Annual Herring Reception

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July 14, 2019

My Summer My Education

We are extremely proud to announce the completion of the 8th edition of our Annual Summer School Programme. The Summer School Programme

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May 01, 2019

A Regional First: SOHAR Port and Freezone Launches SOHAR Navigate

Muscat, May 1st, 2019: SOHAR Port and Freezone recently launched SOHAR Navigate, a unique online route planner, which provides information on available connections to hinterland destinations. The platform is the first of its kind in the region and will comprise of sea schedules connecting to 550 ports worldwide.

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February 21, 2019

SOHAR Conducts Official Launch of the AQMN Project

In line with its commitment to implement the directives of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Af fairs (MECA), which include enhancing environmental monitoring in and around the port and promoting effective environmental management, SOHAR Port and Freezone officially launched the Air Quality Monitoring Network (AQMN) Project. The ceremony took place on Wednesday, February 20, under the auspices of H.E Mohammed bin Salim al Tobi, Minister of Environment and Climate Affairs and in the presence of HE Dr. Mohammed bin Nasser Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Board of SOHAR Port and Freezone, Sheikh Mohana bin Saif Al Lamki, Governor of North Al Batinah and members of the Shura Council. Also in attendance were various representatives from the public sector as well as several SOHAR tenants.

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