Latest news with #AsyadGroup
Observer
a day ago
- Business
- Observer
EZAD: Anchoring investments for a diversified future
Oman's economic landscape is undergoing a profound transformation guided by Vision 2040, the Sultanate of Oman's strategic roadmap towards a diversified, knowledge-driven economy. Central to this vision is the Al Dhahirah Economic Zone (EZAD), a flagship initiative that reflects Oman's commitment to redefining its economic narrative and deepening regional integration within the GCC. EZAD is more than just an economic zone; it is a symbol of visionary policy, geographic advantage, and sustainable development. Situated in the Al Dhahirah Governorate, just 20 kilometers from the Rub Al Khali border crossing with Saudi Arabia, EZAD strategically positions Oman as a gateway to the $1.6 trillion GCC market. This proximity enables seamless overland trade, substantially reducing transportation costs and delivery times for businesses accessing the Saudi market and beyond. The newly established direct Oman-Saudi road has already driven a remarkable 350% increase in bilateral trade between 2022 and 2024, reaching nearly RO 2.18 billion. This momentum underscores the immense potential EZAD holds in enhancing trade flows and industrial collaboration across borders. The Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) plays a pivotal role in steering the development of EZAD. The zone encompasses a total area of 388 km², with OPAZ currently focused on Phase 1A, which spans 7.5 km² as part of the initial urgent development stage. This phase includes essential facilities such as the dry port and a dedicated veterinary quarantine centre. Through a robust regulatory framework and a streamlined 'one-stop shop' service, OPAZ ensures a highly investor-friendly environment. Investors benefit from a suite of competitive incentives including 100% foreign ownership, tax holidays of up to 30 years, duty exemptions on equipment and raw materials, and full repatriation of profits. These advantages firmly position EZAD as a leading investment destination within the Middle East. Aligned with Oman's economic diversification objectives, EZAD is purposefully designed to cultivate sectors beyond hydrocarbons. Key industries targeted include clean and renewable energy, high-precision manufacturing, logistics, and advanced manufacturing that demand sophisticated infrastructure and specialised facilities. EZAD is poised to emerge as a regional logistics hub, featuring a 4 km² dry port managed by Asyad Group on behalf of the Omani government. The first phase of the dry port development covers 1 km² and will include customs facilities, bonded warehouses, and container handling infrastructure. Smart city innovations, such as solar-powered lighting and intelligent traffic management systems, underline the zone's commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency. To support this expansive vision, RO 122 million has been secured for comprehensive infrastructure development, encompassing roads, drainage systems, and connectivity enhancements. Specifically, RO 22.3 million has been allocated for Phase 1, ensuring the foundational infrastructure is in place to catalyse growth and investor confidence. The zone's commitment to empowering local businesses is clear. Contracts stipulate significant subcontracting opportunities for Omani SMEs, with over RO 10 million earmarked for local enterprises. This strategy not only fosters job creation and skill development but also embeds SMEs into regional supply chains, contributing to Oman's broader economic objectives. EZAD exemplifies Oman-Saudi collaboration. A joint executive committee oversees the zone's development, fostering mutual investments, regulatory alignment, and business facilitation. Discussions on establishing a joint Saudi-Omani operating company further solidify this bilateral partnership, reducing investor risks and enhancing regional cooperation. While the zone's primary focus is regional, it actively seeks investments from Asia—particularly China and India—as well as Europe. Oman's stable investment climate, strategic logistics positioning, and connectivity to Gulf and African markets present compelling advantages for international investors. The zone is an ideal base for distribution centres, cold storage facilities, and third-party logistics operations. Diverse investment opportunities await both local and international players. Agro-processing units can leverage Al Dhahirah's agricultural potential, while the veterinary quarantine centre opens pathways in livestock trade. Mining and mineral processing offer prospects to capitalise on Oman's rich natural resources. Financial institutions like Sohar International Bank stand ready to support these ventures through joint ventures and PPP models. To maximise EZAD's potential, strategic enhancements are essential. Improving customs protocols with Saudi Arabia, adopting single-window systems, and integrating digital documentation will streamline cross-border trade. Utility infrastructure, including reliable energy, water, and telecommunications, must be fortified to support industrial activity. OPAZ has also tendered projects for an administrative and commercial complex featuring a hotel, clinic, administration building, business centre and mall. Promotion of EZAD should leverage its unique Oman-Saudi identity. Establishing an annual Al Dhahirah Economic Forum could serve as a dynamic platform to showcase investment opportunities. Additionally, academic and vocational training partnerships will be pivotal in cultivating a skilled workforce tailored to the zone's specialised industries. Facilitating technology transfers and fostering innovation clusters will further elevate EZAD's global competitiveness. In conclusion, the Al Dhahirah Economic Zone stands as a strategic nexus for Oman's economic diversification, regional integration, and global engagement. Its strategic location, investor-friendly policies, comprehensive infrastructure, and deep-rooted Oman-Saudi collaboration make it a beacon of sustainable growth and investment. As Oman advances toward its Vision 2040 goals, EZAD is poised to play a transformative role in shaping a resilient, diversified, and globally competitive economy. Its success will not only benefit Oman but also serve as a testament to the power of visionary leadership, collaborative governance, and shared prosperity. Dr Yousuf Hamed al Balushi The writer is founder and CEO - Smart Investment Gateway, economists, board adviser & business transformation mentor.
Zawya
2 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Oman: Asyad Express' reverse logistics platform to drive e-commerce
MUSCAT: Asyad Express, part of Asyad Group, has launched a strategic, technology driven 'Reverse Logistics Platform' that redefines how businesses in Oman and the GCC manage product returns, exchanges, and refunds. The service is designed to give e-commerce businesses a competitive edge by turning complexity into simplicity, helping them streamline returns while reinforcing trust at every touchpoint. Addressing the increasing demand from retailers and digital-first brands for agile, transparent, and consumer-centric return processes, Asyad Express' new offering delivers a seamless 'end to end' reverse logistics experience. With comprehensive GCC-wide coverage, this service encompasses convenient doorstep pickup, quality checks, and efficient reintegration of returned goods into inventory, all supported by complete visibility and tracking throughout the entire lifecycle. Engineered for effortless integration into current e-commerce and retail workflows, Asyad Express's reverse logistics solution supports businesses of all sizes, from SMEs to large enterprises. This enables businesses to adopt more flexible return policies, significantly shorten turnaround times, and ultimately boost customer satisfaction. This launch underscores Asyad Express' commitment to e-commerce logistics excellence in the region, offering a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the diverse customer needs. With a strong focus on express delivery, e-commerce solutions, and warehousing, Asyad Express utilises an extensive global network to efficiently process, package, and ship thousands of deliveries across 220 destinations and territories. This is complemented by a variety of convenient customer-centric services and the ability to ensure rapid deliveries, and in-house customs clearance for international shipments.
Observer
2 days ago
- Business
- Observer
Asyad Express' reverse logistics platform to drive e-commerce
MUSCAT: Asyad Express, part of Asyad Group, has launched a strategic, technology driven 'Reverse Logistics Platform' that redefines how businesses in Oman and the GCC manage product returns, exchanges, and refunds. The service is designed to give e-commerce businesses a competitive edge by turning complexity into simplicity, helping them streamline returns while reinforcing trust at every touchpoint. Addressing the increasing demand from retailers and digital-first brands for agile, transparent, and consumer-centric return processes, Asyad Express' new offering delivers a seamless 'end to end' reverse logistics experience. With comprehensive GCC-wide coverage, this service encompasses convenient doorstep pickup, quality checks, and efficient reintegration of returned goods into inventory, all supported by complete visibility and tracking throughout the entire lifecycle. Engineered for effortless integration into current e-commerce and retail workflows, Asyad Express's reverse logistics solution supports businesses of all sizes, from SMEs to large enterprises. This enables businesses to adopt more flexible return policies, significantly shorten turnaround times, and ultimately boost customer satisfaction. This launch underscores Asyad Express' commitment to e-commerce logistics excellence in the region, offering a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the diverse customer needs. With a strong focus on express delivery, e-commerce solutions, and warehousing, Asyad Express utilises an extensive global network to efficiently process, package, and ship thousands of deliveries across 220 destinations and territories. This is complemented by a variety of convenient customer-centric services and the ability to ensure rapid deliveries, and in-house customs clearance for international shipments.
Observer
2 days ago
- Business
- Observer
Asyad Express launches reverse logistics platform
Muscat - Asyad Express, part of Asyad Group, has launched a strategic, technology-driven 'Reverse Logistics Platform' that redefines how businesses in Oman and the GCC manage product returns, exchanges, and refunds. The service is designed to give e-commerce businesses a competitive edge by turning complexity into simplicity, helping them streamline returns while reinforcing trust at every touchpoint. Addressing the increasing demand from retailers and digital-first brands for agile, transparent, and consumer-centric return processes, Asyad Express's new offering delivers a seamless 'end-to-end' reverse logistics experience. With comprehensive GCC-wide coverage, this service encompasses convenient doorstep pickup, quality checks, and efficient reintegration of returned goods into inventory, all supported by complete visibility and tracking throughout the entire lifecycle. Engineered for effortless integration into current e-commerce and retail workflows, Asyad Express's reverse logistics solution supports businesses of all sizes, from SMEs to large enterprises. This enables businesses to adopt more flexible return policies, significantly shorten turnaround times, and ultimately boost customer satisfaction. With a strong focus on express delivery, e-commerce solutions, and warehousing, Asyad Express utilizes an extensive global network to efficiently process, package, and ship thousands of deliveries across 220 destinations and territories. This is complemented by a variety of convenient customer-centric services and the ability to ensure rapid deliveries and in-house customs clearance for international shipments.
Times of Oman
14-07-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
Oman Post launches its Khareef Parcel Service
Muscat: Oman Post, the national postal operator, launched its Khareef Parcel Service campaign 'Travel Light, Enjoy the Sights'. This service offers individuals a convenient and cost-effective parcel delivery solution between Dhofar and other governorates across Oman, enabling a more seamless and stress-free travel experience. Through Oman Post's reliable Parcel Service, customers can ship items such as luggage, clothing, cooking essentials, and camping gear to Dhofar, and send back parcels that include local favorites like frankincense, souvenirs, and personal belongings. The service accommodates shipments of up to 30 kilograms per parcel, with highly competitive rates starting from OMR1.500. In addition to supporting personal travel needs, the campaign provides an opportunity for SMEs to expand their reach and capitalise on the increased business activity during the Khareef season. By leveraging Oman Post's extensive logistics network, customers and SMEs can ship their products efficiently and cost-effectively, responding to seasonal demand in the Governorate. All parcels are shipped securely with end-to-end tracking, and proof of delivery is available upon request, offering customers peace of mind and ensuring transparency throughout the process. Oman Post, part of Asyad Group, remains committed to delivering customer-focused, integrated postal and logistics solutions that meet the evolving needs of individuals and businesses across Oman. It also underscores Oman Post's role in supporting national economic growth and enabling innovation in line with Oman Vision 2040.
