The UAE and Oman are deepening their economic partnership with the launch of the Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone, a major cross-border project aimed at enhancing bilateral trade and logistics. The initiative comes as non-oil trade between the two nations reached a record $15.2 billion in 2024, marking a 9.8% increase from the previous year.

The agreement was signed by OPAZ Deputy Chairman Ahmed bin Hassan Al Dheeb and DP World Group Chairman Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, representing Mahadha Development Company—a UAE-Oman joint venture led by DP World.

The signing, witnessed by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed during his visit to Muscat, also included the presence of Omani Minister Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham Al Said.

Located in the Wilayat of Mahadha in Oman’s Al Buraimi Governorate near the UAE border, the Al Rawdah zone is planned as a trade and industrial area. The first phase will cover 14 square kilometers, with a proposed expansion to 25 square kilometers in the second phase.

The zone is expected to have direct connectivity to Dubai’s Jebel Ali Port and Omani ports, facilitating access to trade routes across the Gulf, Asia, and Africa.

Al Dheeb noted that the project aligns with Oman Vision 2040, supporting national goals such as attracting foreign investment, advancing technology, and diversifying the economy. “Its strategic location is expected to enhance logistics efficiency, lower costs, and improve market access across Gulf, Asian, and African trade routes.”

Phase one of the Al Rawdah zone will focus on sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, pharmaceuticals, mining, food processing, and security services. It aims to boost industrial output and re-export activity, supporting Oman Vision 2040 and Dubai’s Economic Agenda D33.

With decades of experience, including the development of Jebel Ali Free Zone, DP World will lead the project’s implementation in partnership with Omani stakeholders.