Oman, the Netherlands sign agreements covering diverse fields
Amsterdam: The Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of the Netherlands on Tuesday signed three agreements: the first in the field of liquefied hydrogen, the second a partnership agreement to study the development of infrastructure for transporting hydrogen and carbon dioxide via pipelines, and the third a partnership agreement with Dutch company 'Royal Vopak'.
This took place during the 'state visit' of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The Joint Development Agreement (JDA) for the liquefied hydrogen corridor entails the establishment of the world's first commercial export corridor for liquefied hydrogen, linking the Sultanate of Oman, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and the Federal Republic of Germany. The Sultanate of Oman was represented in the agreement by Hydrom, OQ, and the Port of Duqm.
This agreement is a pivotal step in cementing Oman's position as a global hub for green hydrogen production and export, as well as a strategic partner in enhancing global energy security. Once fully developed, the corridor will serve as a direct export route for liquefied hydrogen compliant with the EU's Renewable Fuels of Non-Biological Origin (RFNBO) standards—from the Port of Duqm to the Port of Amsterdam, and onward to strategic logistics centers in Germany, including the Port of Duisburg, for further distribution to other European markets.
Under the agreement, Hydrogen Oman (Hydrom), as the national coordinator for implementing Oman's green hydrogen strategy, will oversee production alignment with national plans and ensure the project's integration with the sector's infrastructure and overarching strategy.
Meanwhile, OQ Group will develop the liquefied hydrogen terminal and associated facilities, including storage and export infrastructure. The rapid growth of green hydrogen projects in Duqm will enhance the corridor's readiness and its ability to contribute to national targets, leveraging the integrated infrastructure of the Special Economic Zone at Duqm (Sezad) and the port's strategic location.
The Joint Development Agreement aims for maritime transport within this corridor to rely on specialised vessels equipped with advanced technologies developed by ' Ecolog' to ensure highly efficient liquefied hydrogen transportation. On the European side, the corridor will focus on establishing liquefied hydrogen regasification terminals at the Port of Amsterdam, after which industrial sectors in the Netherlands and Germany will be supplied with hydrogen via gas pipelines, rail networks, and waterways.
In a statement, Eng. Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals and Chairman of Hydrom's Board of Directors, said: 'This international cooperation is a strategic step in Oman's journey toward building a green hydrogen-based economy, linking our production capabilities to global markets and reinforcing Oman's readiness to lead the sector.'
He added: 'The significance of this agreement extends beyond paving the way for a green hydrogen export corridor from Oman to Europe—it reaffirms Oman's confident progress in implementing its ambitious green hydrogen strategy. The involvement of eleven companies from three countries across the entire value chain—from hydrogen production and liquefaction to transport, storage, and regasification—demonstrates the trust Hydrom has gained in forming high-impact strategic partnerships, both within Oman and abroad. This will contribute to establishing an integrated national ecosystem and creating sustainable economic and developmental opportunities, whether through sector-related industries, infrastructure development, or the training and employment of local talent.'
For her part, Sophie Hermans, Minister of Climate and Green Growth of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, stated that this agreement marks a key milestone in Oman-Netherlands cooperation in clean energy. She noted that the project will link Omani green hydrogen production to European markets, supporting long-term strategic efforts to diversify energy sources and enhance energy security.
The minister emphasised that Oman's green hydrogen sector is witnessing notable progress under a sound framework, making it one of the most attractive regulatory environments for global investments and partnerships. She mentioned that contracts for green hydrogen projects have been awarded to consortia comprising 22 international companies, which have already begun development work in Oman's Al Wusta and Dhofar governorates.
She added: 'Hydrom continues to advance Oman's green hydrogen strategy and is currently preparing to launch the third round of public auctions for green hydrogen project sites, focusing on mid-scale projects. This aims to align early-stage production with downstream industries and strengthen the integration of Oman's green hydrogen ecosystem, including shared infrastructure, supply chains, and sector-related industries.'
The agreement was signed by representatives from eleven public and private entities from the Sultanate of Oman, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and the Federal Republic of Germany.
Meanwhile, the two additional agreements—the partnership to study hydrogen and carbon dioxide pipeline transport infrastructure and the partnership between OQ and Royal Vopak—represent ambitious steps toward shaping a new future for Oman's energy sector.
As per the partnership agreement between OQ and Royal Vopak, OQ will spearhead the development of Duqm in Oman as a premier integrated hub for hydrocarbons, chemicals, and low-carbon products. This is a significant step for a strategic alliance that aims to unlock future growth opportunities in industrial and energy terminal infrastructure and sustainable energy transition facilities in SEZAD.
Leveraging Vopak's proven expertise to develop and operate large-scale infrastructure projects, this partnership holds high prospects to drive economic growth, attract international customers, create new employment opportunities, and effectively serve all new projects requiring storage solutions in Duqm.
Highlighting the significant impact of this partnership, Ashraf Hamad Al Mamari, Group CEO of OQ, said: 'This partnership is a catalyst for Duqm's emergence as a globally competitive energy hub. By aligning with Vopak's international expertise, we are unlocking a new era of strategic infrastructure investment that strengthens Oman's position in global energy flows, accelerates the energy transition, and delivers long-term value for our economy and future generations.'
Dick Richelle, CEO of Royal Vopak, welcomed this partnership, saying: 'Vopak is excited to collaborate with OQ Group on this strategic partnership in Duqm. Our combined strengths in infrastructure development will be instrumental in creating a leading energy and chemical hub serving multiple industrial customers concurrently. We are excited to support Oman's Vision 2040.'
This strategic partnership is set to boost confidence and international interest, attract world-class expertise and financing, align strategic goals and investments, and provide access and networking opportunities to global talent.
The agreements were signed on behalf of the Sultanate of Oman by Ashraf Hamad Al Mamari, Group CEO of OQ, and Mansour bin Ali Al Abdali, CEO of OQ Gas Networks, while the Dutch side was represented by Dick Richelle, CEO of Royal Vopak.
© Muscat Media Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Arabian Post
13 hours ago
- Arabian Post
Willem Blijdorp: Building a Global Business Empire
Willem Blijdorp initially set his sights on a career in tourism. From 1970 to 1975, he studied at the Hotel Management School in Maastricht, the Netherlands. However, upon graduation, he chose an unexpected path. He decided to become the organizer of the now-legendary 'Butterfahrten'. This marked the beginning of an entrepreneurial journey that continues to this day. The Butterfahrt Concept During a business trip to Germany, Blijdorp was struck by how popular Butterfahrten were among Dutch tourists. These day trips involved boarding a ship that quickly sailed beyond national waters. Once in international territory, passengers could shop duty-free to their heart's content. ADVERTISEMENT Sensing a unique opportunity, Blijdorp introduced the concept to the Dutch market in 1975. Operating out of Eemshaven, he launched daily Butterfahrten for Dutch tourists. Blijdorp's success lay in offering more than just tax-free shopping. His cruises delivered a memorable experience, blending commerce with entertainment. Passengers were encouraged to shop, but they also enjoyed a full day of games, music, quizzes, and small lotteries. This unique combination of retail and entertainment struck a chord with the Dutch public. In 1976, Blijdorp began working part-time for shipping company Kamstra, whose mini-cruises were booming. That same year, he received a full-time offer from Marriott Hotels in the United States. Simultaneously, Kamstra also offered him a permanent role. Although he originally intended to pursue a career in the hotel industry, he took the leap into entrepreneurship. On the condition that he could acquire shares in the company, he accepted Kamstra's offer and came on board full-time. Blijdorp's talent for business soon became evident. He built strong relationships with German suppliers, securing exclusive deals available only to Butterfahrt passengers. These arrangements not only kept customers coming back but also laid the groundwork for his later venture: B&S. The Rise of B&S In 1985 Blijdorp founded B&S, a company focused on the distribution of duty-free products. What began as a clever cruise concept soon transformed into a serious business. While the European unification brought significant economic advantages, it also marked the end of duty-free sales within the EU. As a result, the Butterfahrten ceased in 1999. Nevertheless, B&S remained focused on the duty-free market, which meant that B&S continued to grow. What began as modest boat trips from Eemshaven evolved into a global tax-free distribution empire. The experience, relationships, and business acumen developed during the Butterfahrten years became the foundation of B&S's growth into a market leader. Expanding the Business Today, he is also an active investor with a particular interest in startups and social ventures. He is involved in companies such as Mercatum Medical Care – a medical wholesaler, SocialDatabase – a data-driven marketing platform, and Advion -a distributor of cleaning and sanitary addition, he is committed to social initiatives like the Papageno House, a residence that supports children with autism. He also contributes to international projects that provide clean water and sanitation in underserved communities, such as those in Ghana. Also published on Medium. Notice an issue? Arabian Post strives to deliver the most accurate and reliable information to its readers. If you believe you have identified an error or inconsistency in this article, please don't hesitate to contact our editorial team at editor[at]thearabianpost[dot]com. We are committed to promptly addressing any concerns and ensuring the highest level of journalistic integrity.
Al Etihad
19 hours ago
- Al Etihad
Trump and Musk to speak on Friday after alliance descends into public feud
6 June 2025 15:02 WASHINGTON (REUTERS)Donald Trump's aides scheduled a call between the US president and Elon Musk for Friday after a huge public spat.A White House official said the two men would speak on Friday. The official did not give a time for the call, which could ease the feuding after an extraordinary day of hostilities - largely conducted over social media - that marked a stark end to a close in Musk's Tesla closed down over 14% on Thursday, losing about $150 billion in market value in the largest single-day decline in value in its history. In pre-market European trading on Friday they pared some of those losses, rising 5% after the news that the two men were scheduled to speak. Politico first reported the planned had bankrolled a large part of Trump's presidential campaign and was then brought as one of the president's most visible advisers, heading up a sweeping and controversial effort to downsize the federal workforce and slash verbal punches erupted on Thursday after Trump criticised Musk in the Oval Office and the pair then traded barbs on their social media platforms: Trump's Truth Social and Musk's falling-out had begun brewing days ago when Musk, who left his role as head of the Department of Government Efficiency a week ago, denounced Trump's sweeping tax-cut and spending president initially stayed quiet while Musk campaigned to torpedo the bill, saying it would add too much to the nation's $36.2 trillion in broke his silence on Thursday, telling reporters he was "very disappointed" in Musk."Look, Elon and I had a great relationship. I don't know if we will anymore," Trump said. As Trump spoke, Musk responded on X. "Without me, Trump would have lost the election," wrote Musk, who spent nearly $300 million backing Trump and other Republicans in last year's another post, Musk asserted that Trump's signature import tariffs would push the US into a recession later this year."The easiest way to save money in our Budget, Billions and Billions of Dollars, is to terminate Elon's Governmental Subsidies and Contracts," Trump after the closing bell, Musk replied, "Yes," to a post on X saying Trump should be impeached, something that would be highly unlikely given Trump's Republicans hold majorities in both chambers of businesses also include rocket company and government contractor SpaceX and its satellite unit whose space business plays a critical role in the US government's space program, said that as a result of Trump's threats he would begin decommissioning SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft. Dragon is the only US spacecraft capable of sending astronauts to the International Space on Thursday, Musk backed off the another sign of a possible detente to come, Musk subsequently wrote: "You're not wrong," in response to billionaire investor Bill Ackman saying Trump and Musk should make peace. Punching Back Trump and Musk are both political fighters with a penchant for using social media to attack their perceived enemies, and many observers had predicted a hit at the heart of Trump's agenda earlier this week when he targeted what Trump has named his "big, beautiful bill", calling it a "disgusting abomination" that would deepen the federal attacks amplified a rift within the Republican Party that could threaten the bill's prospects in the analysts say Trump's bill could add $2.4 trillion to $5 trillion to the nation's $36.2 trillion in debt. A prolonged feud between the pair could make it harder for Republicans to keep control of Congress in next year's midterm elections if it leads to a loss of Musk's campaign spending or erodes support for Trump in Silicon Valley."Elon really was a significant portion of the ground game this last cycle," said a Republican strategist with ties to Musk and the Trump administration who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity."If he sits out the midterms, that worries me."On Tuesday, Musk posted that "in November next year, we fire all politicians who betrayed the American people." Musk had already said he planned to curtail his political spending in the future. Musk's increasing focus on politics provoked widespread protests at Tesla sites, driving down sales while investors fretted that Musk's attention was too divided.
Tourism Breaking News
a day ago
- Tourism Breaking News
Etihad expands its European network with flights to Prague and Warsaw
Post Views: 59 Etihad Airways celebrated the launch of flights to two new destinations in Central Europe – Prague and Warsaw. The UAE's national airline operated its inaugural flight to the enchanting Czech capital Prague, one of 16 new destinations the airline will add this year. Next the airline touched down in Warsaw for the first time, adding the vibrant Polish capital to its expanding European network. 'Our new Prague and Warsaw services open doors to countless possibilities,' said Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer at Etihad Airways. 'These new routes create a bridge between two remarkable regions, connecting travellers from the Middle East to the heart of Central Europe, while offering seamless connections via Abu Dhabi to destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, the Indian Subcontinent and Australia.' Often called the 'City of a Hundred Spires', Prague captivates visitors with its stunning Gothic architecture, centuries-old squares, and lively cultural scene. The Czech capital's historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases architectural treasures spanning eight centuries, while its modern districts pulse with innovative cuisine, art, and design. Beyond the city, the surrounding region offers picturesque landscapes, from historic castles to renowned spa towns. In Poland, the modern city of Warsaw captivates with its distinctive contrasts – elegant architecture and contemporary skylines, traditional markets and inspired dining scenes, historic parks and cutting-edge cultural venues. This diversity is complemented by Poland's enticing array of experiences, from medieval cities to pristine forests and mountain ranges. Visitors to the UAE from Czechia and Poland, can enjoy Abu Dhabi's distinctive blend of tradition and modern luxury. The UAE capital offers everything from the serenity of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the artistic masterpieces of the Louvre Abu Dhabi. The city serves as an ideal gateway to desert adventures, championship golf courses, and the entertainment district of Yas Island with its world-class theme parks and Yas Marina Circuit. Prague and Warsaw join Etihad's expanding European network at an exciting time. The airline is set to welcome 16 new destinations throughout 2025, including Atlanta (July), Taipei (September), and key Asian cities such as Hong Kong, Hanoi, and Krabi in the fourth quarter. Operating on the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, the services feature 28 Business Studios and 262 Economy Smart seats. Each Business Studio transforms into a fully-flat bed and offers direct aisle access, while Economy Smart seats provide enhanced comfort for all guests. The aircraft offers the latest in-flight entertainment technology and thoughtfully crafted comfort in both cabins. To celebrate Etihad's expanding network, the airline has launched a competition, The Extraordinary Challenge, daring guests to compete in a race to visit 15 of the airline's new destinations, including Prague and Warsaw, to win five million Etihad Guest miles. Any new or existing Etihad Guest member can register to compete and has 12 months to complete the challenge, the first three members to visit all 15 destinations will be awarded. First place will win five million Etihad Guest miles, Second place will win three million miles, and Third place will win one million miles.
