Latest news with #OPAZ
Observer
a day ago
- Business
- Observer
OPAZ engages with local community via ‘Tajawob' platform
BUSINESS REPORTER MUSCAT, JUNE 2 The Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) engaged with several suggestions, complaints, reports and inquiries submitted via the national platform 'Tajawob' until the end of May. A total of 44 requests were received, including 12 suggestions, 10 complaints, 20 inquiries and 2 reports, reflecting a growing interaction aimed at enhancing public participation tools. Dr Ahmed bin Saif al Mamari, Acting Director of Customer Services Department at OPAZ, confirmed that all requests received via the platform have been given due attention since its launch in late February. Complaints were handled within record timeframes, with the shortest response time recorded at under 10 minutes and the longest at two days. Most inquiries focused on investment procedures, company registration and investor visas. Complaints, meanwhile, were referred to the relevant departments for resolution. He stated that the received suggestions were diverse, including the development of incubators in industrial cities, enhancement of the tourism front in the Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD), and the renaming of certain industrial cities under the Public Establishment for Industrial Estates (Madayn). All suggestions have been referred to the relevant departments within the Authority and the zones it supervises for study and evaluation. Al Mamari also mentioned that some of the submissions received via the platform included innovative proposals, reflecting the level of public engagement with global technological and scientific advancements. One notable suggestion involved utilising the advancements in drone technology for the transport sector, which was referred to a specialised consultancy, while technical experts in the zone provided their input directly to the proposer. The Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones affirmed that the national platform for suggestions, complaints, reports and inquiries, will contribute to strengthening community partnership and effective communication, as well as improving the business environment through continuous engagement, high transparency and prompt responsiveness.
Zawya
27-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman, UAE sign deal to launch Al-Rawdah SEZ
MUSCAT: The Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) has entered into a landmark agreement with Mahdah Development Company—an Omani-Emirati partnership represented by DP World—to develop and operate the first phase of the Al-Rawdah Special Economic Zone in Al Buraimi Governorate. The signing ceremony was held in the presence of His Highness Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham al Said, Minister of Culture, Sports, and Youth, and His Highness Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defense of the United Arab Emirates. Signing on behalf of OPAZ was Eng Ahmed bin Hassan al Dheeb, Vice-Chairman of OPAZ, while Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO of DP World, represented the Emirati side. Eng Ahmed al Dheeb emphasised that the Al-Rawdah Special Economic Zone is a strategic initiative aligned with the goals of Oman Vision 2040. He noted that the project is designed to create employment opportunities, attract cutting-edge technologies, and promote a sustainable, business-friendly environment. The zone's location in Wilayat Mahdah, strategically positioned at the crossroads between Oman and the United Arab Emirates, ensures direct connectivity to Sohar Port and Jebel Ali Port. This geographic advantage is expected to enhance logistics efficiency, reduce operational costs, and improve market access across the Gulf, Asia, and Africa. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem described the project as a new chapter in economic cooperation between Oman and the UAE. He reiterated DP World's commitment to developing a world-class trade and investment hub in partnership with OPAZ and Omani stakeholders. The project, he said, will serve as a platform for sustainable and diversified economic growth while deepening commercial ties between the two countries. Under the 50-year usufruct agreement, Mahdah Development Company will initially develop 14 square kilometers of the zone, with the potential to expand to 25 square kilometers in a second phase, subject to a detailed development plan. The company is tasked with delivering core infrastructure, including road networks, water and sewage systems, and other public utilities. It will also prepare a comprehensive master plan, conduct environmental assessments, and outline zoning layouts for industrial, logistics, commercial, and service sectors. The first phase will focus on attracting investment in key sectors such as manufacturing, logistics and warehousing, pharmaceuticals, plastics, mining, food processing, and safety and security services. This multi-sectoral approach is expected to attract high-value investors and support long-term business viability. To incentivize investment, Al-Rawdah Special Economic Zone will offer a host of benefits, including a 10-year income tax exemption extendable for two additional terms, customs duty exemptions on imports, exports, and stored goods, and streamlined licensing and permitting through a one-stop shop. Foreign investors will be permitted 100% ownership of their enterprises, while strategic projects will benefit from a single-window approval process for establishment and operation. In addition to its economic and trade focus, the zone is positioned to facilitate supply chain development and re-export activities between Oman, the UAE, and broader global markets. It is also expected to enhance lifestyle offerings, promote tourism, and support business diversification within Mahdah and the wider Al Buraimi Governorate. The initiative is seen as a catalyst for job creation and small and medium enterprise (SME) development in the region. The signing of the agreement reinforces Oman's commitment to economic diversification, strengthening strategic partnerships, and attracting quality investments in alignment with the long-term aspirations of Oman Vision 2040. 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Sharjah 24
26-05-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Hamdan bin Mohammed witnesses Al Rawdah Zone agreement signing
High-level attendance at signing ceremony The signing of the agreement, which took place in Muscat, was attended by His Highness Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham Al Said, Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth of Oman. The agreement is part of the flourishing economic cooperation between the two nations. Signatories of the agreement The agreement was signed by Eng. Ahmed bin Hassan Al Dheeb, Deputy Chairman of the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ), and Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, representing Mahadha Development Company, which will develop the new zone. Mahadha Development Company is an Emirati-Omani joint venture in which DP World is the majority partner. Comments from DP World Chairman and CEO Commenting on the occasion, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem said: 'The Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone represents a new chapter in the growing economic relationship between the UAE and the Sultanate of Oman. Through close collaboration with OPAZ and our Omani partners, this new zone will strengthen our deep trade ties while reflecting our shared ambition for sustainable and diversified economic growth.' He added: 'At DP World, we are committed to developing a world-class platform that will create new opportunities for growth, strengthen connectivity and bring long-term economic value to both Oman and the UAE.' Speech by deputy chairman of OPAZ In his speech, Eng. Ahmed bin Hassan Al Dheeb highlighted: "The Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone has been designed to support key development goals, including creating jobs, attracting advanced knowledge and modern technologies, and fostering a business-friendly environment that aligns with the sustainable development objectives of Oman Vision 2040.' He added: 'The zone's strategic location in the Buraimi Governorate - at the crossroads between Oman and the UAE - provides seamless connectivity to both Sohar Port and Jebel Ali Port. This positioning is expected to enhance logistics efficiency, lower costs, and improve market access across Gulf, Asian, and African trade routes.' Project details and expansion plans Phase 1 of the project will cover 14 square kilometres, with expansion plans to reach 25 square kilometres in Phase 2. The zone will benefit from direct connectivity to both Jebel Ali Port in Dubai and Omani ports, enhancing cross-border logistics. Responsibilities of Mahadha Development Company Under the agreement, Mahadha Development Company will be responsible for developing the infrastructure and facilities, preparing the masterplan and environmental studies, and designing the initial layout. The first phase will target a range of economic activities, including manufacturing, logistics, warehousing, pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, plastics, mining, food processing, and security and safety services - all provided through an integrated one-stop-shop service model. Strategic importance of Al Rawdah Project The Al Rawdah project is a strategic initiative that will leverage its geographic location to strengthen supply chains, re-export activity, and logistics connectivity between Oman, the UAE, and international markets. The zone will serve as a key engine of economic diversification aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and Oman Vision 2040. It aims to attract foreign direct investment (FDI), increase industrial output, and create thousands of jobs as the zone scales over the coming decades. Growth in UAE-Oman trade In 2024, non-oil trade between the UAE and Oman reached a record AED56 billion - a 9.8% increase from the previous year - highlighting the deepening economic partnership. The Al Rawdah Zone is expected to accelerate this trend by establishing a modern and advanced ecosystem for trade and manufacturing. DP World's expertise in economic zones DP World brings four decades of expertise in developing and operating economic zones, including the Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), the first free zone in the Middle East and one of the most successful globally. This experience along with its portfolio of 11 economic zones worldwide positions DP World to deliver a future-ready, integrated platform in Oman, supported by OPAZ's national development strategy. Distinguished attendees at the signing ceremony The signing was attended by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai; His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group; and Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority. Also present at the signing were Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs; Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture; His Excellency Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade; Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Application; Maryam bint Ahmed Al Hammadi, Minister of State; Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, Chairman of Dubai Chambers; Abdulla Al Basti, Secretary General of The Executive Council of Dubai; Lieutenant General Talal Belhoul Al Falasi, President of Dubai's State Security Department; and Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General of Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.
Gulf Today
26-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
UAE, Oman begin new chapter in trade, economic cooperation
Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, on Monday witnessed the signing of an agreement to develop and operate the first phase of the Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone, located in the Wilayat of Mahadha, Al Buraimi Governorate, in the Sultanate of Oman. The signing took place during the visit of a high-level UAE delegation to Oman led by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed. The signing of the agreement, which took place in Muscat, was attended by His Highness Sayyid Theyazin Bin Haitham Al Said, Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth of Oman. The agreement is part of the flourishing economic cooperation between the two nations. The agreement was signed by Engineer Ahmed Bin Hassan Al Dheeb, Deputy Chairman of the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ), and Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, representing Mahadha Development Company, which will develop the new zone. Mahadha Development Company is an Emirati-Omani joint venture in which DP World is the majority partner. Commenting on the occasion, Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem said: 'The Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone represents a new chapter in the growing economic relationship between the UAE and the Sultanate of Oman. Through close collaboration with OPAZ and our Omani partners, this new zone will strengthen our deep trade ties while reflecting our shared ambition for sustainable and diversified economic growth.' He added: 'At DP World, we are committed to developing a world-class platform that will create new opportunities for growth, strengthen connectivity and bring long-term economic value to both Oman and the UAE.' In his speech, Engineer Ahmed Bin Hassan Al Dheeb highlighted: 'The Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone has been designed to support key development goals, including creating jobs, attracting advanced knowledge and modern technologies, and fostering a business-friendly environment that aligns with the sustainable development objectives of Oman Vision 2040.' He added: 'The zone's strategic location in the Buraimi Governorate - at the crossroads between Oman and the UAE - provides seamless connectivity to both Sohar Port and Jebel Ali Port. This positioning is expected to enhance logistics efficiency, lower costs, and improve market access across Gulf, Asian, and African trade routes.' Phase 1 of the project will cover 14 square kilometres, with expansion plans to reach 25 square kilometres in Phase 2. The zone will benefit from direct connectivity to both Jebel Ali Port in Dubai and Omani ports, enhancing cross-border logistics. Under the agreement, Mahadha Development Company will be responsible for developing the infrastructure and facilities, preparing the masterplan and environmental studies, and designing the initial layout. The first phase will target a range of economic activities, including manufacturing, logistics, warehousing, pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, plastics, mining, food processing, and security and safety services - all provided through an integrated one-stop-shop service model. The Al Rawdah project is a strategic initiative that will leverage its geographic location to strengthen supply chains, re-export activity, and logistics connectivity between Oman, the UAE, and international markets. The zone will serve as a key engine of economic diversification aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and Oman Vision 2040. It aims to attract foreign direct investment (FDI), increase industrial output, and create thousands of jobs as the zone scales over the coming decades. In 2024, non-oil trade between the UAE and Oman reached a record Dhs56 billion - a 9.8% increase from the previous year - highlighting the deepening economic partnership. The Al Rawdah Zone is expected to accelerate this trend by establishing a modern and advanced ecosystem for trade and manufacturing. DP World brings four decades of expertise in developing and operating economic zones, including the Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), the first free zone in the Middle East and one of the most successful globally. This experience along with its portfolio of 11 economic zones worldwide positions DP World to deliver a future-ready, integrated platform in Oman, supported by OPAZ's national development strategy. The signing was attended by Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai; Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group; and. Sheikha Latifa Bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority. Also present at the signing were Mohammad Bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs; Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture; Dr Thani Bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade; Omar Bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Application. WAM
Muscat Daily
26-05-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Oman, UAE sign deal to develop SEZ in Mahdah
Muscat – Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) and Mahadha Development Company, a joint Omani-Emirati venture led by DP World, have signed an agreement to develop and operate the first phase of Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone in Mahdah, Buraimi. The signing ceremony was held in the presence of H H Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham al Said, Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth, and Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The agreement was signed by Ahmed bin Hassan al Dheeb, Vice-Chairman of OPAZ, and Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO of DP World. According to Dheeb, the special economic zone (SEZ) aims to support job creation, attract advanced technologies and contribute to sustainable development. He noted that its strategic location on the Oman-UAE border provides access to the ports of Suhar and Jebel Ali, improving logistics and market reach across Gulf, Asian and African regions. Sulayem described the project as a 'new chapter' in the economic relations between Oman and the UAE. 'We are committed to developing a world-class platform that will create new opportunities for growth, strengthen connectivity and bring long-term economic value to both our nations.' Under a 50-year usufruct agreement, Mahadha Development Company will initially develop 14sqkm, with the option to expand to 25sqkm. The developer is responsible for infrastructure, public utilities, environmental studies, and master planning covering industrial, commercial and service sectors. The first phase will target key industries including manufacturing, logistics, pharmaceuticals, mining, food processing, plastics and safety services. The SEZ will offer investment incentives including a ten-year income tax exemption, customs duty waivers on imports and exports, and 100% foreign ownership. Strategic projects will benefit from single-window approvals. The project also aims to support tourism, enhance the region's business environment, and create opportunities for small and medium enterprises.
