The Omani government is launching a new set of industrial and investment zones, branded as ‘Integrated Economic Clusters,’ to accelerate its economic diversification strategy. These clusters will complement current economic areas like Special Economic Zones (SEZs), Free Zones, and Industrial Cities, key components of Oman’s non-oil growth efforts.
Five Integrated Economic Clusters are planned for major locations throughout Oman, leveraging benefits such as strategic geographic positioning, local natural resources, proximity to export markets, and access to essential logistics. According to the Oman 2040 Vision Implementation Follow-up Unit, the clusters are proposed for Shaleem, Najd, Al Dakhiliyah, Duqm, and Suhar.
Integrated economic clusters are designed to foster growth through concentrated sectors in shared locations, encouraging resource optimization and competitive synergy among industries. At Shaleem, for instance, a minerals-focused cluster will take advantage of gypsum, limestone, and dolomite deposits to attract downstream industries and also tap into fisheries, tourism, and logistics due to its coastal location.
In Al Dakhiliyah, a cluster will focus on agriculture, tourism, industry, and logistics, forming a benchmark model for cross-sectoral growth. At Duqm, a Cold Chain Economic Cluster will enhance food preservation and distribution, supporting fisheries and agriculture. Dhofar’s Najd area will feature a comprehensive system for agriculture, industry, and logistics, while Suhar will host an aluminum industry cluster to integrate primary production with value-added industries.
