The Ministry of Energy and Minerals in Oman recently held a forum in Dhofar Governorate to discuss investment opportunities, current and future projects, and ways to enhance community partnerships with local companies. The forum was inaugurated by HH Sayyid Marwan Turki Al Said, Governor of Dhofar, and covered topics such as oil, gas, renewable energy, and green hydrogen. The goal of the forum was to explore ways to optimize the use of mineral resources in Oman and address the challenges facing the energy and minerals sectors.
During his speech at the forum, Mohsin Hamad Al Hadhrami, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Energy and Minerals, emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to developing the energy and minerals sector in a way that ensures the optimal use of natural resources and promotes health, safety, and environmental responsibility. He highlighted the achievements of the oil and gas sectors, noting that daily oil production averaged 1.05 million barrels, and gas production increased by 4 percent to 142.5 million cubic meters per day. The minerals sector also experienced growth, particularly in Dhofar Governorate, with over 13 million tons of limestone produced and 11 million tons of gypsum exported in 2023.
The forum featured three visual presentations that focused on major projects and developments in vital sectors. Eng. Saud Khamis Al Mahrouqi, Director General of Minerals, delivered a detailed presentation on efforts to enhance the exploitation of mineral resources in Oman. He highlighted Dhofar Governorate’s abundance of limestone and gypsum, noting that gypsum exports alone reached 11 million tons in 2023, up from 9 million tons in 2022. This growth positions Oman as a key global supplier of raw materials.
The event provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss ways to further develop the energy and minerals sectors and promote sustainable practices in Oman. By fostering partnerships with local companies and exploring investment opportunities, the Ministry of Energy and Minerals aims to drive economic growth, create job opportunities, and contribute to the country’s overall development. The forum’s discussions on renewable energy and green hydrogen also underscore the government’s commitment to transitioning towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.
One of the key outcomes of the forum was the recognition of the importance of leveraging Oman’s abundant mineral resources to drive economic diversification and enhance the country’s competitiveness in global markets. By promoting responsible mining practices and supporting the growth of the minerals sector, Oman can capitalize on its natural resources to create value-added products and drive innovation in various industries. The forum also highlighted the significance of community engagement and local participation in supporting the sustainable development of the energy and minerals sectors.
In conclusion, the forum organized by the Ministry of Energy and Minerals in Dhofar Governorate provided a valuable platform for stakeholders to discuss investment opportunities, current projects, and ways to enhance community partnerships. With a focus on optimizing the use of mineral resources and addressing challenges in the energy and minerals sectors, the event underscored Oman’s commitment to sustainable development and economic growth. By fostering collaboration with local companies and exploring opportunities in renewable energy and green hydrogen, Oman aims to further enhance its position as a key player in the global energy and minerals market.
