The Special Economic Zone at Duqm (Sezad) in Oman has seen a significant increase in economic activity and investment interest in the region. In the first half of this year, 247 licenses for economic activities were issued, along with a total of 355 licenses in public services, 68 commercial registrations, 55 building permits, 87 environmental licenses, and over 900 work and investor permits. Khalid Al Khusaibi, Head of the Registration and Licensing Department, stated that the Sezad is focused on facilitating investment procedures and supporting investors in starting their investment activities by implementing electronic transformation in services provided to investors.
The Sezad aims to make investing in the region easier by offering electronic services through the OMAP platform, allowing investors to specify their economic activity, select land for investment, and pay fees electronically. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with a Riyada card receive a 50% discount on service fees to encourage investment. The strategic location of the Zone on the Arabian Sea, overlooking the Indian Ocean, provides an advantage due to its proximity to international shipping lanes and essential infrastructure for investment growth, including the Port of Duqm, Duqm Airport, and other facilities.
The Sezad, overseen by the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (Opaz), offers a variety of investment opportunities ranging from light industrial projects, SME services, and medium-sized industries to tourism investment, real estate development, renewable energy projects, green industries, and green hydrogen production. With its diverse economic activities, the Sezad has attracted investors from Oman and abroad to invest in the region. The management of the Zone provides support to investors at every stage of the investment process, making it a desirable destination for businesses looking to expand their operations.
By issuing licenses for economic activities and providing necessary support to investors, the Sezad aims to boost investment and economic growth in the region. The Zone’s adoption of electronic services has streamlined investment procedures, making it easier for investors to start their activities and overcome challenges they may face. The availability of services such as land selection, fee payment, and support for SMEs demonstrates the Sezad’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment conducive to investment and economic development.
Overall, the Sezad’s efforts to attract investors and facilitate investment procedures have led to a significant increase in economic activity and interest in the region. With its strategic location, diverse economic activities, and essential infrastructure, the Zone offers a promising investment destination for businesses looking to expand their operations in Oman. By providing support to investors and implementing electronic services, the Sezad is poised to continue its growth as a key player in Oman’s economic development.
