Duqm Special Economic Zone Accelerates Development with Major Road Network Expansion
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- The Special Economic Zone at Duqm (Sezad) reports significant progress on its road network development, with Phase I and II of Sultan Said bin Taimur Road nearing completion.
- Construction has begun on internal roads in Block 52 and a new coastal road linking key tourism and industrial areas.
- These infrastructure projects aim to boost Duqm's attractiveness for investment and improve connectivity for residents, investors, and tourists.
The Special Economic Zone at Duqm (Sezad) is rapidly transforming into a major hub, underscored by its ambitious and progressing infrastructure development, particularly its integrated road network. The latest updates reveal substantial advancements in the dualization project of Sultan Said bin Taimur Road, with completion rates exceeding 92% for Phase I and 64% for Phase II as of March. This signifies a major step towards enhancing connectivity within this vital economic zone.
road projects in the zone aim to enhance Duqmโs attractiveness and readiness to attract further investments, while connecting existing developments through a modern network of dual and single carriageways that facilitate movement for investors, residents, citizens and tourists.
Beyond the main arterial road, Sezad is also forging ahead with crucial internal road construction in Block 52 and the development of a scenic coastal road. This new route promises to link the burgeoning tourism area with the fishing port and the fisheries complex, while also serving existing and planned tourism facilities. Such developments are critical for creating a cohesive and accessible environment for both business and leisure.
the projects focus on strengthening logistical connectivity between industrial, commercial, logistics and tourism zones, enhancing mobility services across various investment areas, and enabling smooth access to key locations, thereby boosting the competitiveness of the Special Economic Zone at Duqm and its ability to attract more local and international companies.
Eng. Ahmed bin Ali Akaak, CEO of Sezad, articulated the strategic vision behind these projects: to significantly enhance Duqmโs appeal to investors and ensure readiness for future growth. The modern network of dual and single carriageways is designed to facilitate seamless movement, benefiting investors, residents, and the growing number of tourists. This focus on logistical connectivity is paramount for strengthening the competitiveness of Sezad on both local and international stages.
The road links the city centre with Duqm Airport, oil storage facilities, and renewable energy projects, while providing seamless connectivity for visitors arriving from Dhofar Governorate and the wilayats of Haima and Al Jazir.
From Oman's perspective, these infrastructure investments are not merely about building roads; they represent a strategic commitment to realizing the Sultanate's vision of economic diversification, with Duqm at its forefront. While international coverage might highlight the scale of investment, we see it as the essential foundation for creating a thriving, integrated ecosystem that attracts global capital and provides significant opportunities for Omani citizens. The coastal road, in particular, promises to unlock the immense tourism potential of Duqm, offering breathtaking views and enhancing the visitor experience, further solidifying Duqm's role as a key economic and tourism destination.
The road aims to develop the transport system within the zoneโs masterplan, enhance its attractiveness for tourism investments and related economic activities, and extends along routes offering scenic natural views, including coastal landscapes, natural hills, and future development sites.
Originally published by Times of Oman in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.