UAE, Oman launch special economic zone

An agreement has been finalised to develop and operate the first phase of the Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone in Oman’s Al Buraimi Governorate, marking a new milestone in UAE-Oman cooperation.

The signing took place in Muscat during the official visit of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and the UAE's Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, who led a high-level UAE delegation to the Sultanate.

The new zone, to be developed by Mahadha Development Company, a UAE-Oman joint venture with DP World as majority partner, will cover 14 sq.km. in its first phase and expand to 25 in the future.

It will focus on sectors such as logistics, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals and food processing, and aims to boost regional connectivity with links to Jebel Ali and Sohar ports.

Omani officials emphasized the zone’s role in advancing Oman Vision 2040, creating jobs, attracting foreign investment, and supporting sustainable development across key industries.

DP World Chairman Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem said the project reflects the deepening trade ties between the UAE and Oman and will bring long-term economic value to both nations.

During my official visit to the Sultanate of Oman, I was delighted to meet with the Deputy Prime Minister for Cabinet Affairs and the Deputy Prime Minister for Defence Affairs. I was also pleased to meet with His Highness Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham Tariq Al Said, Oman’s Minister… pic.twitter.com/RMJChvtoBV

— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) May 26, 2025