Sohar International: An Economic Powerhouse Reshaping the Global Navigation Map
Sohar International: An Economic Powerhouse Reshaping the Global Navigation Map
Nestled between the western Hajar Mountains and the shores of the Sea of Oman, Sohar International Port in the Sultanate of Oman emerges as one of the region’s most prominent maritime transport engines, contributing to transforming the logistical map and strengthening trade links between East and West.
The port was established in 2002 as a joint venture between the Government of the Sultanate of Oman (50%), Rotterdam Port Company (30%), and a number of local and international investors. It enjoys a vital strategic location at the entrance to the Arabian Gulf, making it a natural gateway for trade movement between Asian, European, and African markets. The port’s director, Reginald Yildirim, says: “Sohar’s unique location shortens sea journey times by days compared to traditional ports, and provides integrated logistical solutions that attract major shipping lines.” Data from the Omani Ministry of Transport and Communications confirms that the port has contributed to attracting industrial investments exceeding $20 billion in the surrounding free zone.
Statistics indicate accelerated growth; its storage capacity has reached 200,000 square meters, and its annual capacity is 1.5 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU). Container traffic has recorded an average annual growth of 15% since 2015, according to reports from the Sohar Special Economic Zone Authority. Its operations have expanded to include the export of cars, metals, and petrochemical materials, benefiting from its advanced infrastructure and connection to a modern railway network.
Geopolitically, the port plays a pivotal role in enhancing Arab economic security, especially with global trade shifts and maritime corridor competition. Logistics expert Dr. Khaled Al-Marzoki explains: “Sohar alleviates pressure on the Strait of Hormuz and provides a strategic alternative, which enhances the flexibility of regional supply chains.” However, it faces competitive challenges with ports like Jebel Ali and DP World, although its focus on competitive costs and integrated services distinguishes it.
In conclusion, Sohar International Port represents a successful model for economic diversification in Oman, transforming geographical location into a competitive advantage that supports the national economy and redraws global trade routes, with a clear contribution to enhancing the logistical security of Gulf Arab states.
صحيفة عكاظ اليوم ، موقع إخباري شامل يهتم بتقديم خدمة صحفية متميزة للقارئ، وهدفنا أن نصل لقرائنا الأعزاء بالخبر الأدق والأسرع والحصري بما يليق بقواعد وقيم الأسرة السعودية، لذلك نقدم لكم مجموعة كبيرة من الأخبار المتنوعة داخل الأقسام التالية، الأخبار العالمية و المحلية، الاقتصاد، تكنولوجيا ، فن، أخبار الرياضة، منوعات و سياحة.