Oman's Sohar Port positions itself as Gulf gateway for Indian traders amid Hormuz tensions

Oman's Sohar Port is actively positioning itself as a strategic gateway for Indian businesses and investors to access the Gulf and West Asia region as tensions escalate in the US-Iran conflict. To attract Indian trade, authorities in Sohar Port and Free Zone, located outside the Strait of Hormuz, recently hosted an exposition in New Delhi. The exposition showcased the port's integrated infrastructure, investment prospects across industries, and support services for businesses operating in Oman.

The port and free zone have attracted over $30 billion in investments and handle 72 million tonnes of cargo annually. Oman's Ambassador to India, Issa Saleh Abdullah Alshibani, stated that Sohar Port and other Omani ports are becoming an attractive destination for investors, not just in Oman but throughout the wider region. Sohar Port's proximity to the UAE and plans for a green corridor with Jabel Ali Port offer Indian traders added advantages, such as expedited customs clearance for goods heading to Jabel Ali.

Established in 2004, Sohar Port is one of the fastest-growing ports globally, offering a range of value-added services. The port, which spans 21 million square meters, comprises three major logistics clusters, petrochemicals, and metals. Recently, a food cluster was added, featuring Oman's first terminal specifically designed for agricultural products. With its strategic location within a fortnight's sail of major global ports, Sohar Port provides swift access to expanding markets in the GCC, India, and East Africa.

Oman's Port of Salalah is also being positioned to handle exports of Indian agricultural and food products to the Gulf. Salalah handles over 2,500 vessel calls annually and is one of the fastest-growing port operations worldwide. The port's advanced wave-dampening system allows for high-speed container unloading and access to Oman's expanding road network, connecting the port with the rapidly growing GCC market.

India currently has a strategic presence in Oman's Port of Duqm, serving as a gateway to the largest special economic zone in the entire Gulf.