NEWS

Asyad Group moves to expand port by building private partnerships and promoting a stronger logistics ecosystem

Asyad Group continues to plan and deploy revolutionary initiatives and innovative procedures with a view of developing the existing logistics ecosystem in Oman. It also seeks to enhance efficiencies in the logistics sector and upgrade its network of ports to improve their competitiveness and meeting the highest international standards and best practices.

Keeping with this direction, Asyad has issued a request for expression of interest (REOI) to local and international private firms looking to enter joint engagements and cooperate to develop the infrastructure and operations of Suwaiq Port in Al Batinah North, Oman. The targeted engagements include expansion projects that will allow this vital port to serve as a 600,000-m² multipurpose trade hub with an annual capacity of 10 million tons, able to handle all types of large vessels with liquid, bulk and general cargo, in addition to livestock and vehicles.

“Our group took yet another significant step by opening its doors to all companies to show interest in taking part in this productive partnership,” said Dr. Ahmed Mohammed Al Abri, CEO of Asyad Ports. “Following the partner selection process, deep water quays will be designed and constructed to realize target capacity and promote the port’s regional competitiveness. All expansion and development works will help transform Suwaiq Port to a vital logistics destination and a key gateway to global and regional markets, while securing the needs of the growing economy of Oman and maintaining national food security.”

Commenting on the strategic value of this move, Dr. Al Abri said that “developing Suwaiq Port is one of Asyad Groups’ strategic objectives and a driver towards regional leadership and strengthening Oman’s position as a global logistics player that open pathways to markets around the globe. The expansion we seek is no surprise; in fact, it is only inevitable considering the constant reliable growth made every year by this port, mirroring the general economic and trade growth in Oman. Ultimately, not only will Suwaiq Port bring in new investments and create new jobs, it will also realize logistic twinning plans with Sohar Port and develop advanced capabilities to handle all types of goods.”

“Keeping with Asyad’s pledge to support local private enterprises, Suwaiq Port’s expansion will open new opportunities to local support-service providers to operate inside the port and in surrounding logistics areas,” Al Abri added. “This will definitely create more business and expand the horizons of new local arrivals, startup companies and maritime service companies.”

According to Asyad Ports CEO, the REOI indicates that the expansion project aims to increase the port’s capacity by 5 million tons of general cargo and 5 million tons of bulk cargo annually, and build multi-purpose 14-meter-deep quays to accommodate large vessels.

The deadline to receive letters of interest has been extended to December 6, 2021. Tender documents can be obtained in Asyad HQ or via Asyad Group’s website www.asyad.om.

Tapping into its strategic location and vital position connecting Muscat with Sohar Port, Suwaiq Port is an invaluable asset in Asyad’s portfolio bringing local goods and food supplies to key markets in the GCC, India and the Horn of Africa. In addition, it plays a prominent role in supporting the newly operational Khazaen’s dry port by facilitating all types of import, export and re-export, boosting trade and processing inbound and outbound modular and reefer containers. These new capabilities will undoubtedly elevate Asyad’s stature as a world logistics heavy hitter offering unparalleled access and unrivalled integrated services.