Pact signed for new bunkering station at Duqm Fisheries Port

MUSCAT, MAY 10

Marine fuel trading firm O Bunkering has signed an agreement with Marsa Al Duqm Investments Company — a subsidiary of Fisheries Development Oman — to build and operate a bunkering station for marine vessels in the Duqm Fisheries Port. O Bunkering will supply all ships and fishing boats with bunker fuel at the fishing port berth in Duqm. The project is expected to significantly boost the port's capabilities and enhance Oman's position as a key player in the regional marine industry.

The new bunker supply station will be equipped with the latest technology and infrastructure, including advanced metering and monitoring systems to ensure the safe and efficient supply of marine fuels and other related products. It will be staffed by a team of highly trained professionals, who will be responsible for ensuring that all operations are carried out in strict accordance with international safety and environmental standards.

The agreement was signed by Ali Amur al Shaibani, CEO of O Bunkering and Eng Nabil al Bimani, CEO of Fisheries Development Oman.

Ali Amur al Shaibani, CEO of O Bunkering, said “This agreement represents a significant success and a big step for the company. O Bunkering will undertake the design and construction of the bunker station in Duqm Fishing Port in accordance with international standards, ensuring the highest levels of safety and reliability for their customers. The company aims to provide exceptional services in the field of supplying ships with bunker fuel to the global shipping industry, which contributes to the promotion of both local and international fishing industries.”

The development of the bunker supply station is part of Oman's wider plans to develop its ports and logistics infrastructure, in order to support economic growth and diversification. Duqm is a key part of this strategy, and the development of the bunker supply station is expected to help attract more business to the port.

Al Shaibani added, “The project is an essential step for the fisheries industry in the Sultanate of Oman. This project will contribute to achieving Oman Vision 2040 and emphasises the diversification of the sources of the Omani economy. The Duqm Fishing Port is one of its main pillars, in addition to promoting social and economic development.”

Duqm is strategically located on the coast of Oman and is a key hub for the marine industry in the region. The development of the new bunker supply station is expected to help the port capture a larger share of the growing global bunker market, which is expected to reach $330 billion by 2027, according to a recent report by Global Market Insights.

In December last year, Oman Oil Marketing Company (OOMCO) officially inaugurated a bunker fuel terminal at the Port of Duqm. Located in the Duqm Special Economic Zone (SEZAD), the OOMCO marine bunker fuel terminal will supply the full range of bunker fuel to ships at the port and port anchorage, which promises to further position Oman as a world-class logistics and shipping hub.

Duqm Fishing Port is the largest fishing port in the Sultanate of Oman, with yards designated for commercial and tourism purposes and direct services needed by fishermen. It is also distinguished by its association with the largest area for fish industries in Oman and its proximity to Duqm Airport. This strategic location will make the port a destination for many ships and boats operating in the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean.