Latest news with #KhimjiRamdas
Zawya
30-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman's first green ammonia project begins receiving key cargo
MUSCAT - Project cargo has begun arriving at the Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD) for Oman's first green hydrogen and ammonia venture — a landmark initiative set to kickstart the Sultanate of Oman's gigawatt-scale green energy industry. Green Hydrogen and Chemicals Company SAOC (GHC), a wholly owned subsidiary of India-based renewable energy developer ACME Group, is developing the green ammonia plant with an initial capacity of 100,000 tonnes per annum (tpa). The project, estimated at around $750 million, is designed for phased expansion to 1.1 million tpa. Last week, Khimji Ramdas Shipping announced the successful discharge and inland delivery of the first major consignment of project cargo from the Port of Duqm to the plant site. The shipment comprised 14 packages of oversized equipment, including a single unit weighing 120 metric tonnes. This shipment marks the first in a series of heavy cargo deliveries expected at Port of Duqm in the run-up to the plant's scheduled commissioning in Q1 2027. Forthcoming consignments will include solar PV modules, trackers and electrolysers — key components already under contract as part of the project's broader supply chain. Earlier this month, GameChange Solar, a global leader in solar tracking systems, announced a deal to supply its Genius Tracker technology for a 450 MWp solar installation that will generate renewable electricity for the project. The 1P single-row tracker system is engineered to withstand high winds and extreme weather conditions, making it suitable for Al Duqm's coastal environment. Leading Chinese manufacturer Sungrow Hydrogen revealed it had been contracted to supply multiple sets of 1000 Nm³/h alkaline electrolysis systems, along with flexible green hydrogen production solutions. Deliveries are expected to be completed by end-2025. Fellow Chinese company Shuangliang Hydrogen has also secured a contract to supply hydrogen production equipment for the same project, with delivery similarly due by year-end. In parallel, UAE-based DarkOcen Geostar recently completed the fieldwork phase of an offshore geotechnical investigation at SEZAD. The campaign included borehole drilling, Cone Penetration Testing (CPT) and evaluations of pipeline corridors and marine anchor points to support the development of future marine infrastructure for the ammonia plant. The Duqm green ammonia project is one of nine large-scale green hydrogen initiatives planned for development across Oman's Al Wusta and Dhofar governorates over the next decade. These projects collectively represent investments exceeding $40 billion. The timely delivery and execution of the Duqm plant is seen as pivotal to unlocking Oman's broader hydrogen strategy. As part of a long-term offtake agreement signed last year, Norwegian fertiliser giant Yara will lift the full annual output from the first phase — 100,000 tonnes of green ammonia — reinforcing the project's strong commercial foundation. 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
30-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman starts receiving supplies for first green hydrogen project
Project cargo has begun arriving at the Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD) for Oman's first green hydrogen and ammonia venture, the first of the many poised to scale the Sultanate's green energy industry. Green Hydrogen and Chemicals Company SAOC (GHC), a wholly owned subsidiary of India-based renewable energy developer ACME Group, is developing the green ammonia plant with an initial capacity of 100,000 tonnes per annum (tpa). The project, estimated at around $750 million, is designed for phased expansion to 1.1 million tpa, according to officials. Last week, Khimji Ramdas Shipping announced the successful discharge and inland delivery of the first major consignment of project cargo from the Port of Duqm to the plant site. The shipment comprised 14 packages of oversized equipment, including a single unit weighing 120 metric tonnes. This shipment marks the first in a series of heavy cargo deliveries expected at Port of Duqm in the run-up to the plant's scheduled commissioning in the first quarter of 2027. Forthcoming consignments will include solar PV modules, trackers and electrolysers - key components already under contract as part of the project's broader supply chain. (Writing by Nadim Kawach; Editing by Anoop Menon) (
Times of Oman
02-06-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
First fully indoor, multi-range shooting complex opens
Muscat: A state-of-the-art indoor shooting complex — touted as the first-of-its kind not just in Oman but across the wider region —has officially opened its doors in Muscat, ushering in a new era for recreational and professional marksmanship in the Sultanate. Named Action Point, the facility offers a rare and highly specialised combination of 25-metre, 50-metre, and 100-metre shooting ranges along with a fully indoor shotgun skeet and trap range — an extraordinary setup made even more remarkable by the fact that all ranges are fully air-conditioned and housed under one roof. This unique private complex is located at the Active Oman Centre (Oman Automobile Association) and promises to cater to first-time shooters, seasoned enthusiasts, and tactical professionals in an environment that is immersive, safe and technologically advanced. The facility was inaugurated recently under the patronage of His Highness Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham Al Said, Minister of Culture, Sports, and Youth. Developed and delivered by the Special Projects Division of Khimji Ramdas (KR) in partnership with Cubic Technologies Singapore PTE LTD — a global name in advanced defence training systems —Action Point marks a significant milestone for shooting sports and security training infrastructure in Oman. 'This is more than just a facility — it's an experience that combines adrenaline, precision, and professionalism,' said Col (Retd) Nasser bin Ali Al Amri, General Manager of Action Point. 'Through our collaboration with Khimji Ramdas and Cubic Defence, we've brought international-level shooting disciplines to Oman with the highest standards of safety and supervision. Our aim is to nurture responsible firearms sportsmanship and create an atmosphere where people feel both inspired and secure.' The sprawling complex includes two 25-metre pistol ranges equipped with retrievable targets for 9mm handguns, two 50-metre tactical ranges featuring advanced Location of Miss and Hit (LOMAH) systems, and a 100-metre rifle range tailored for 5.56mm calibre firearms. But what truly elevates Action Point to a class of its own is its fully indoor shotgun skeet and trap range — an exceedingly rare feature even by global standards. An air gun range is also under development, further expanding the facility's appeal to a broad spectrum of users. In terms of technology, each range is equipped with smart bullet traps that safely direct fired projectiles into specialised collection channels. Complementing these are electronic target systems that offer real-time feedback, enabling more accurate assessment and training. A specially engineered air purification system ensures that dust and gases generated during live firing are swiftly removed, maintaining a safe and clean indoor environment. The facility has been thoughtfully designed to cater to a diverse clientele. From beginners trying their hand at shooting for the first time to competitive marksmen training for international tournaments, Action Point offers tailored packages and supervised sessions. It also supports the tactical training needs of private security personnel and government agencies, ensuring wide-ranging utility. Every visitor is given a thorough safety briefing upon arrival and is continuously supervised by qualified instructors, reflecting the facility's unwavering focus on professionalism and best practices. Omani talent has been a central part of the project's success. In coordination with the Ministry of Labour, Action Point recruited and trained Omani jobseekers — men and women alike — who underwent intensive instruction from global experts. This localisation strategy has not only created jobs but also developed a skilled cadre of personnel capable of managing and operating a high-spec, internationally aligned shooting facility. Speaking at a recent media tour of the facilities, Varun Pankaj Khimji, Director of Khimji Ramdas LLC, said, 'We are proud to support Action Point's mission of enhancing responsible firearms sporting in the region. This project reflects our commitment to delivering turnkey, high-performance solutions that support national training infrastructure and innovation. The facility is another example of the vision and capability of our Special Projects Division.' Rajneesh Armugham, General Manager – Special Projects at Khimji Ramdas, said: 'We are proud to have delivered this sophisticated training facility that not only meets international safety and operational standards but also showcases our division's capability in managing complex, defence-aligned infrastructure projects. Our collaboration with Cubic Defence has brought cutting-edge technology into Oman, and we're confident Action Point will become a go-to destination for hobbyists, competition shooters, and private security agencies alike.' The KR Special Projects Division will also continue to support the facility over the next two years through a comprehensive technical support and maintenance contract, ensuring operational continuity and sustained quality through a dedicated in-house team. Open to individuals aged 16 and above, Action Point welcomes private enthusiasts, corporate teams, educational institutions, and government organisations with tailored offerings. The facility is expected to host regional tournaments in the near future, positioning Oman as a hub for competitive shooting and sport. With its exceptional mix of features, world-class equipment, and climate-controlled indoor design, Action Point is not just a first for Oman — it's a regional trailblazer in modern recreational shooting. The facility is open daily from 8:00am to 10:00pm, Sunday to Saturday.
Trade Arabia
02-06-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Khimji Ramdas Special Projects delivers world-class indoor shooting range
The Special Projects Division of Khimji Ramdas has completed and handed over a state-of-the-art Indoor Shooting Range 'Action Point', a one-of-its-kind world-class sporting facility designed to elevate Oman's standing in shooting sports and tactical training. Action Point's indoor shooting range in Muscat has been developed in collaboration with Cubic Technologies Singapore, a global leader in defence training systems. The shooting range is fully equipped facility that delivers an unparalleled live-fire experience. Located at the Active Oman Centre (Oman Automobile Association), it features six specialised shooting ranges: Two 25-m pistol ranges with retrievable targets for 9mm pistols; one 50-m tactical range featuring LOMAH (Location of Miss and Hit) target systems; one 100-m rifle range with retrievable targets for 5.56mm caliber rifles; a globally unique indoor shotgun (skeet/trap) range; an air gun range (currently under development). All ranges are equipped with smart bullet traps that safely collect projectiles into designated channels, advanced electronic target systems for real-time feedback, and air purification systems that ensure a healthy and safe environment by removing dust and gases generated by shooting. The facility is designed to cater to a wide spectrum of users - ranging from first-time visitors and hobby shooters to competitive marksmen, private security agencies, and government entities. The experience begins with a comprehensive safety briefing at a dedicated reception and briefing area, followed by closely monitored sessions where each visitor is accompanied by a qualified instructor who ensures safety and provides technical guidance throughout, a statement said. Col (Retd) Nasser bin Ali Al Amri, General Manager - Action Point, stated: 'Action Point was envisioned as more than just a facility - it is an experience that combines adrenaline, precision, and professionalism. Our partnership with Khimji Ramdas and Cubic Defence has enabled us to bring international-level shooting disciplines to Oman, while maintaining the highest standards of safety and supervision. We aim to nurture responsible firearms sportsmanship in an environment that inspires confidence and excellence. 'To ensure operational excellence, the training staff at Action Point was selected from national talents of both genders, in coordination with the Ministry of Labor, from among job seekers. They received intensive coaching from a global leader specialized in training instructors for indoor ranges, ensuring they deliver high levels of professional and technical performance.' Varun Pankaj Khimji, Director - Khimji Ramdas, said: 'This project reflects our commitment to delivering turnkey, high-performance solutions that support national training infrastructure and innovation. Partnering with Cubic Technologies has enabled us to incorporate some of the most advanced technologies in the world into this facility. The collaboration brought in proprietary training systems that allow for real-time feedback, multi-user engagement, and immersive training environments. These systems are widely used by military and law enforcement agencies globally, ensuring the facility adheres to best-in-class standards.' He added: 'We are proud to support Action Point's mission of enhancing responsible firearms sporting in the region. This project represents another milestone for Khimji Ramdas' Special Projects Division, which continues to spearhead strategic infrastructure and defense-related developments across Oman and the wider region.'
Entrepreneur
09-05-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Carrying The Baton Forward: How Kanan Khimji Balances Innovation With Tradition as a Fourth-Generation Leader of the 155-Year-Old Khimji Ramdas Group in Oman
Khimji sits at the helm of not just one of the nation's biggest conglomerates but also over 150 years of the family-run business' legacy. But the weight of such a rare responsibility has only spurred her on to push the company towards greater milestones. Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. You're reading Entrepreneur Middle East, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. In 1870, decades before the nations of Oman and India as we know them today were formed (with the latter still in the early years of British occupation), during one of the many journeys made from their seaside hometown Mandvi in Gujarat, father-and-son merchants Ramdas Thackersay and Khimji Ramdas landed at the Port of Oman. The destination wasn't new to them- they'd often visited the coastal area of Muscat during their trade expeditions, which also included the East African trading hub Zanzibar (which, at the time, was ruled by the Sultan of Oman). However, that particular year, instead of making their way back to Mandvi, the duo decided to stay back at the Port of Oman- a decision that would eventually lead to the creation of the Khimji Ramdas Group, a family-run wholesale business house that completes 155 years of operations this year. Today, as the Group's fourth-generation Director, Kanan Khimji has taken on the mantle of carrying its legacy forward. "The values of integrity, entrepreneurship, and community that are inherent in both Indian and Omani culture have had a profound influence on the ethos of Khimji Ramdas," Khimji says. "Our ancestors came to the shores of Oman in the 19th century as traders, and it was here they found not only opportunity, but also a sense of belonging. Oman has not just been our place of business - it has been our home. Over the decades, Oman has played a central role in shaping our family's identity. We've been fortunate to witness and contribute to the nation's incredible transformation. The values of humility, respect for heritage, and forward-thinking stewardship that define Omani society have guided us in both business and life. The trust and goodwill of the nation have been the bedrock of our success." A portrait of Khimji Ramdas, who, along with his father Ramdas Thackersay, sailed to the shore of the Port of Oman in 1870 and set up the Khimji Ramdas Group. Source: Khimji Ramdas Group To say that Khimji Ramdas Group has cemented itself as a centerpiece in Oman's growth as a nation wouldn't be an overstatement. Across four distinct sectors (or "Clusters", as the Khimji family refers to them) -lifestyle, consumer products, projects and logistics, and infrastructure- the Group operates 40 business verticals, 150 retail outlets, and 400 global and local brands. Among the hundreds of brands within its portfolio include: Netherlands-based SPAR International, one of the largest supermarket chains in the world which has more than 13,623 outlets in 48 countries; premium luxury and lifestyle name brands such as Swarovski, Chopard, Cartier, and Rolex (with the official Khimji's Watches store being recognized as an Official Rolex Retailer); office furniture, Qatar-based telecom and ICT services provider Ooredoo; Muscat-based events and catering company Helping Hands; health and wellness brand Kaya Skin Clinic (which has 23 branches across Oman, UAE and Saudi Arabia); Godrej & Khimji Middle East, a joint venture between Khimji Ramdas and Mumbai-based Indian conglomerate Godrej Group; and Middle East Fuji Khimji's LLC, joint venture between marine logistics firm Fuji Trading Japan and Khimji Ramdas. Other brands the Group operates cater towards end-to-end building and construction-related services and supply, shipping, defense, logistics, as well as travel solutions. Additionally, the group has shipping, commodities, and tourism operations in the UAE, and a prominent presence in India through strategic partnerships with Procter & Gamble, Rolex, Kellogg's, and Britannia. "In terms of scale, our operations reach millions of consumers annually through our retail and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) channels alone," Khimji adds. "We serve both the B2C and B2B segments and are increasingly expanding into digital platforms to enhance customer accessibility and engagement. We've seen consistent growth across several divisions- particularly in our Consumer Products, and Projects and Logistics Clusters. Our target markets remain anchored in Oman and the wider GCC, with select operations extending to India and other international markets through brand partnerships and exports. Our FMCG distribution and Retail businesses remain among our most significant contributors in terms of revenue, thanks to longstanding relationships with global principals and a deep understanding of regional consumer behavior. Meanwhile, our Infrastructure and Projects verticals are key drivers of strategic growth aligned with national development goals." In addition to her role as the Director of KRGroup, Khimji serves on the school management committee at Indian School Wadi Kabir International, and also supports educational initiatives in Oman and abroad, with a focus on expanding access to learning opportunities, particularly for young women and underserved communities. Source: Khimji Ramdas Group Indeed, in honoring the Group's birthplace, Khimji Ramdas Group's vision has eventually also become aligned with Oman's Vision 2040- its government's national roadmap for the economic and social development of the Sultanate of Oman from 2021 to 2040. "The journey of Khimji Ramdas is, in many ways, a reflection of Oman's own growth story," Khimji notes. "From being part of the early days of commerce to actively supporting national development initiatives, our trajectory has paralleled the country's rise as a diversified and knowledge-based economy. Supporting Vision 2040 is thus a key priority! Whether through employment and upskilling of Omani talent, investments in technology and logistics, or sustainability-driven initiatives, we are aligning our strategic goals with the national agenda. Our projects and logistics cluster plays a particularly prominent role in furthering Vision 2040, as it supports infrastructure development, logistics efficiency, and global trade integration. Additionally, our consumer products and retail arms foster youth engagement, entrepreneurship, and digital commerce, which are core pillars of the Vision." But while it may be easy to be awed by the mammoth scale of the Group's operations and reach, it is also equally necessary to realize that at any given point in time over the past 150+ years, the responsibility of being at the forefront of the business has always been on one person's shoulders. It is here, however, that the advantages of a family-run business come to the limelight- for starters, one needn't look too far for inspiration and guidance. "Watching the generations before me lead with calm conviction and a service-first mindset has taught me the value of patience, empathy, and active listening," Khimji says. "Their ability to evolve without losing sight of our values helped me identify the balance I must strike between tradition and innovation. I have immense admiration for my father, uncles, and cousins, who have grown the business while ensuring it remains a pillar of trust within the community. Their foresight and integrity continue to inspire me every day. One lesson that continues to resonate through generations is: "Stay grounded, no matter how high you rise." This sense of humility, along with a deep respect for people at all levels of the organization, has been central to our family's leadership philosophy." A Khimji Ramdas General Stores branch during the brand's early days in Khimji Ramdas Group But this isn't Khimji's first rodeo when it comes to working at the Group- since 2014, she has led its consumer products cluster, expanding its retail presence and strengthening brand partnerships. In fact, it was this particular role that first brought out Khimji's business acumen and foresightedness. "Retail expansion decisions are driven by consumer insights, market potential, and brand alignment with our values- we therefore look for partners who share our commitment to quality, sustainability, and long-term growth," she explains. "We also focus on understanding evolving customer preferences to keep our portfolio relevant and aspirational. During my tenure, I've contributed to the onboarding of several prestigious international brands and the expansion of our premium retail footprint, particularly in the luxury and lifestyle sectors. One initiative I'm particularly proud of is our expansion into digital retail and the successful integration of omnichannel experiences for some of our flagship brands. These steps are helping us future-proof the business while staying close to our consumers." Describing her leadership style as "collaborative and adaptive," Khimji adds that taking up the baton as Director -the Group's first female one at that- has been an opportunity she has relished so far. "Carrying forward a 150-year-old legacy is both a responsibility and a privilege," she continues. "There is a sense of respect and duty that comes with being part of a business built over generations through resilience, foresight, and a commitment to values. Naturally, there are moments of pressure -especially when you are mindful of the reputation and trust the Khimji Ramdas name carries in the region- but I see it more as a challenge to be embraced than a burden to bear. I believe in empowering teams, encouraging innovation, and aligning tradition with modernity. And so, while I draw strength from the legacy that precedes me, I also remain firmly committed to shaping a future that is progressive, inclusive, and sustainable." Now, Khimji's clarity in thought can, to a certain extent, be attributed to the culture ingrained within the Group. "The resilience and adaptability of our family business lie in our openness to change, structured succession planning, and respect for both heritage and innovation," Khimji explains. "We've built governance frameworks that support both family involvement and professional management, which has enabled us to evolve without disruption. As the first female leader, I've been supported by a culture that values merit, inclusivity, and progressive thinking. Our family has always believed in empowering individuals based on capability rather than convention, and that has been instrumental in sustaining our success across generations." Kanan Khimji is the Director of Khimji Ramdas Group. Source: Khimji Ramdas Group But if this company culture were to be visualized as a sturdy wall, then there have been two immovable bricks that have ensured its longevity: innovation and diversification. "Innovation to me is about solving real-world problems more effectively, and diversification is about building resilience through relevance- both concepts are non-negotiable factors at Khimji Ramdas," the Director explains. "Both are necessary to remain competitive and impactful in today's economy. At our Group, we encourage a culture of experimentation while staying rooted in our values. Innovation doesn't mean discarding tradition; it means enhancing it with better tools, smarter systems, and newer perspectives. We constantly ask ourselves how we can serve our customers and partners better - and the answers often lie at the intersection of technology, tradition, and trust." But even as the Group's 155-year-old value system drive Khimji's goals for the future forward, it is also equally influenced by her own unique vision for what the Group could become. "The future of Khimji Ramdas lies in building a more digitally empowered, environmentally responsible, and globally connected business," Khimji declares. "We are investing in sustainability, digitization, and talent development to ensure we remain a future-ready organization. I hope to leave behind a legacy of transformation - one that honors our history while laying strong foundations for the next generation. Ultimately, I want our teams, our partners, and the communities we serve to feel that we've not only grown together but grown responsibly. That, for me, would be the greatest success." Related: Timeless Craft: How Sustainability-Driven Goals Have Shaped 90 years of Khansaheb Group's Journey in the UAE
