SOHAR Port cargo surges 52% to 52 million tonnes in H1 2026
Meanwhile, leased warehouse space reached approximately 37,000 sq m, up 19% year on year.
OMAN – SOHAR Port and Freezone delivered sustained operational performance in the first half of 2026, recording total cargo throughput of 52 million metric tons, a 52% increase from the same period last year.
First, ship-to-ship cargo handling reached 24.38 million metric tons, reflecting the demand for SOHAR’s maritime services.
Container throughput increased by 40% to 545,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), primarily driven by higher transhipment activity, while breakbulk cargo nearly doubled to 1.24 million metric tons.
Although dry bulk volumes moderated during the period, the port handled 1,555 vessel calls, demonstrating operational resilience.
Infrastructure Investment and Strategic Growth
Execution of existing and expansion projects progressed across SOHAR’s port and freezone during the reporting period, representing a combined investment value of US$6.82 billion.
As a result, these investments continue to advance SOHAR’s industrial and logistics ecosystem by expanding infrastructure, increasing industrial capacity and enhancing long-term competitiveness.
Emile Hoogsteden, CEO of SOHAR Port, said the first-half results reflect SOHAR’s ability to provide a platform for trade, industry, and investment in the international trading environment.
“The first half of 2026 demonstrates the adaptability of SOHAR’s integrated port and freezone model and the strength of our long-term strategy. As trade continues to evolve, we remain committed to investing in world-class infrastructure, strengthening maritime connectivity, and enhancing operational excellence,” she said.
Freezone Investment and Community Impact
SOHAR Freezone maintained investment momentum during the first half of 2026, signing five new investment contracts valued at US$589 million during the reporting period and reinforcing SOHAR Freezone’s attractiveness to investors. Meanwhile, leased warehouse space reached approximately 37,000 sq m, up 19% year on year.
Dr Raid Al Rubaiey, CEO of SOHAR Freezone and Deputy CEO of SOHAR Port, said: “Our ambition extends beyond attracting investment; it is about creating lasting economic value through high-quality industrial development. We remain focused on attracting industries that build on Oman’s industrial base, deepen local and regional value chains, and contribute to sustainable economic growth.”
Beyond its economic footprint, SOHAR continued to invest in surrounding communities through nine CSR initiatives that reached more than 37,450 beneficiaries during the first half of the year.
Finally, these developments reinforce the port’s role as a critical engine for the nation’s industrial future and the broader Oman Vision 2040.
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