The Port of Duqm, an ambitious industrial and maritime hub of the Sultanate of Oman, launched its first phase of commercial operations, marking a key milestone in the Port's history.
"The launch of the first phase of its commercial operations in the 300-metre length of the commercial quay marks a milestone towards supporting the commercial activities of the region while contributing to the national economy", Reggy Vermeulen, Commercial Director, Port of Duqm said, adding, "This is the first step towards the complete usage of the Port". With its geographic location and size, Port of Duqm offers huge potential in handling heavy equipment to and from the country that can spur not just the Al Wusta Governorate's growth but that of the country as a whole, according to Reggy.
"Port of Duqm offers great potential in terms of economic growth as it can handle, along with others, heavy equipment that is crucial for the oil and gas industry". Fuelling the growth trajectory of the region, Oman Air has, in November, launched its charter flight services to Ja'aluni at the extended ROP air strip, thus reducing the travelling time by one fifth. This three times a week service, while substantially reducing the travel time by at least five times, is expected to spur the region's economic, social and touristic growth.
"With this Oman Air service, Duqm has become closer to the capital city of Oman and has been a great landmark", Reggy further said. "The new air service shows that the State is truly committed to the development of Duqm. We receive investors from across the globe and this new step will, no doubt, add confidence in investing in this country." Duqm area which has immense natural limestone deposits, vast uninhabited land, and the least population according to the last census, is all set to grow by leaps and bounds once the ongoing projects are realized.
The first commercial quay is more than 3,200 meters in length out of which 300 meters is ready for commercial use from tomorrow. All the marine work is so far completed and the remaining works are currently on.
The Port of Duqm, in the years to come, is all poised to be a busy port with dry docks and ship repair facilities and an industrial free zone with tremendous possibilities. With all its highly ambitious plans, the development of the Port also marks a blueprint for Oman's bright future, which will see the development of an international airport, oil refinery, and power plants.
Oman Daily Observer
9 March
