The Sultanate of Oman marked a momentous occasion on Monday, commemorating the centenary of oil and gas discovery in the nation. The ceremony, held at the prestigious Royal Opera House Muscat under the patronage of HH Sayyid Shihab bin Tarik Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for Defence Affairs, served as a powerful reflection on a century of energy development and a glimpse into the future of Oman’s diversified energy landscape. This milestone underlines the nation’s journey from initial exploration to becoming a significant player in the global energy market.
A Century of Progress: Oman’s Oil and Gas History
The celebration highlighted the pivotal moments since the signing of the first exploration concession in 1925. It wasn’t simply an acknowledgment of finding hydrocarbons, but a comprehensive review of the transformations that have shaped Oman’s national economy and built a robust infrastructure for the oil and gas industry. From humble beginnings, the sector has evolved into a cornerstone of the Sultanate’s prosperity and sustainable development.
Early Exploration and First Exports
Eng. Salim Nasser Al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals, emphasized the significance of this landmark achievement, calling it a “defining historical milestone.” The journey began officially with the aforementioned concession agreement with the D’Arcy Exploration Company on May 18, 1925. Early exploration culminated in the drilling of the “Dauka-1” well in 1955, a foundational step establishing the potential of Oman’s reserves. The first commercial success came in 1967 with the export of Omani crude from Mina Al Fahl port, initially at a rate of approximately 5,000 barrels per day (bpd).
Growth and Modernization
Today, Oman’s oil production has surged to nearly one million bpd, a testament to accumulated expertise and the continuous development of operational, administrative, and technical capabilities. Eng. Al Aufi pointed to Oman’s political stability as a key factor attracting investment and fostering international partnerships, citing the Duqm Refinery and Petrochemical Industries project—a staggering OMR3.5 billion investment—as a prime example of this collaborative success. The sector now manages 58 concession areas, including 34 operational blocks, with 16 companies actively involved in exploration and production under stringent governance standards. Current estimates put oil reserves at around 4.8 billion barrels, alongside natural gas production of approximately 150 million cubic meters per day, sustained by a vast network of pipelines.
In-Country Value and Workforce Development
The Ministry of Energy and Minerals is deeply committed to maximizing the benefits of the sector for the Omani people. A key initiative in this regard is the focus on In-Country Value (ICV). Over the past decade, total sector expenditure has reached OMR11 billion, with a significant OMR700 million specifically allocated to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the last year alone. The recently launched “Majd” ICV program, with its first accreditation awarded to Abraj Energy Services, further reinforces this dedication.
Empowering Omani Talent
Recognizing that human capital is paramount, Oman has achieved a remarkable 93% Omanisation rate within operating companies, with a workforce nearing 20,000 individuals. Furthermore, the sector demonstrates a strong safety culture, achieving 285.5 million working hours without a Lost Time Injury (LTI) in 2024. Investments in social responsibility initiatives are also substantial, with nearly OMR50 million allocated to community projects over the last five years, both nationally and within concession areas.
Looking Ahead: Energy Transition and Sustainability
While celebrating its rich history in hydrocarbons, Oman is resolutely focused on a future powered by diversification and sustainability. The ministry’s commitment extends to developing renewable energy sources, particularly green hydrogen. Operating companies are actively pursuing several initiatives, including Petroleum Development Oman’s (PDO) “Miraah” solar steam project, and various solar and wind energy projects like “Amin”, “Riyah 1” and “Riyah 2” promising significant renewable capacity.
Sustainable Initiatives in Action
Oman Shell’s initiatives, like the “Qabas” Solar Energy project and the establishment of the country’s first Green Hydrogen station, demonstrate a practical approach to incorporating cleaner energy solutions. These endeavors aim to balance the current energy needs with responsible ecological stewardship, solidifying Oman’s position as a forward-thinking energy nation.
Exhibition Commemorates a Century of Achievement
To further mark the centenary of oil and gas discovery, an exhibition was inaugurated, offering a detailed documentary and visual account of the sector’s evolution over the past 100 years. Open to the public, the exhibition features models, samples, portraits of Oman’s Sultans, and pivotal historical documents, alongside infographic displays and a timeline charting the sector’s significant milestones. This exhibition serves as both a tribute to past achievements and an educational resource for future generations.
In conclusion, the commemoration of the centenary of oil and gas discovery in Oman isn’t merely a look back, but a powerful affirmation of the nation’s journey, resilience, and vision for the future. With a steadfast commitment to economic growth, workforce development, and sustainable energy practices, Oman is poised to navigate the evolving energy landscape and continue its path of progress and prosperity. Explore the exhibition and learn more about this fascinating history and Oman’s exciting energy future.