The Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) in Oman has partnered with Mahdah Development Company, a joint Omani-Emirati venture led by DP World, to develop the first phase of the Al-Rawdah Special Economic Zone (SEZ). The agreement was officially signed by Ahmed bin Hassan Al Dheeb, Vice Chairman of OPAZ, and Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO of DP World.
Al-Rawdah Special Economic Zone
Located in Buraimi Governorate, near the Oman–UAE border, the zone is strategically positioned with direct trade routes to Sohar Port in Oman and Jebel Ali Port in the UAE. This location is expected to serve as a vital regional logistics and trade hub.
The initial stage of development will cover 14 square kilometers, with the possibility of expanding to 25 square kilometers in a future phase. The agreement spans a 50-year period, ensuring long-term development and operational stability.
The zone will focus on attracting investment in key sectors including manufacturing, logistics and warehousing, pharmaceuticals, medical industries, plastics, mining, food processing, and security and safety services. These sectors have been selected to drive economic diversification and technological advancement in line with Oman Vision 2040.
OPAZ Vice Chairman Ahmed bin Hassan Al Dheeb noted that the zone is aligned with Oman Vision 2040, aiming to support sustainable development, create employment, and attract modern technology and knowledge-based industries.
DP World’s Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem emphasized that the initiative represents a deepening of Oman-UAE economic collaboration and is designed to drive long-term growth and connectivity between the two nations.