Sohar Free Zone Among World’s Top Four Industrial Zones for 2026

Oman’s Sohar Free Zone is internationally recognised 4th in the world and 1st in the Middle East in the World Free Zones Awards. It has climbed its way onto the list of achievements due to its increasing importance as a logistics, manufacturing, and trade hub. Its highly encouraging track record in digital innovation and readiness for artificial intelligence make it an even more significant global force.

Sohar Free Zone Ranking Highlights Industrial Growth

The ranking of the world acts as a reinforcement of the potential of Sohar and its competitiveness, as an important industrial base for the world. This is what makes the region the best industrial space in the Middle East in providing jobs to elevate poverty while playing a pivotal role in the oil giant’s bid to become a regional hub of industrial growth and win investment priorities and enhance international connectivity.

Sohar Free Zone Advances AI Readiness and Innovation

Sohar ranked 6th globally, showing readiness for AI technologies as an outcome of adopting digital technologies in operation. It has implemented its port management system Marasi, which has manoeuvred ships 15% sooner, thereby enhancing port operational efficiency. The growth in these areas highlights the importance of technology to developing the zone’s industrial and logistics sector.

Sohar Free Zone Uses Digital Tools to Attract Investors

Another project Makan is an interactive geographic platform through which prospective investors can remotely see the available industrial plots to consider. The platform enhances transparency in information regarding the location of activities and facilitates investors in assessing whether there is an opportunity which would interest them, as well as contribute to the attractiveness of the zone for local and foreign investors.

Sohar Free Zone Prepares for Greater Regional Connectivity

Sohar is run by ASYAD Group and the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) and is poised for continued growth. Potential linking with the Hafeet Rail project from Oman and UAE may enhance transport and trade links. This connectivity, alongside the digitally-invested and internationally recognised Sohar, could further strengthen the region’s supply chain in the city.

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