Oman logistics sector to see creation of more jobs

H E Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Salim al Futaisi, Minister of Transport and Communications, said on Wednesday that more jobs will be created for Omanis as the logistics sector grows to the next level.

Speaking to the media about the ministry’s plans for this year, H E Dr Futaisi said a total of 3,500 Omanis were employed in the logistics sector in 2018.

“Overall, the ministry plans to create 2,500 jobs for Omanis in the logistics sector,” he said. About the developments in the transport and aviation sectors, H E Dr Futaisi said, “The ministry is planning to open section one and two of the Adam-Thumrait dual carriageway before the onset of khareef season. We will begin implementing a plan to re-use the old Muscat Airport. Additionally, we have plans to start research on the second phase of the operation of Musandam Airport.”

With regards to plans in the logistics sector, he said this year will see the operation and development of Khasab and Shinas ports.

H E Dr Futaisi said that the ministry is aiming to boost logistics services via containers by 15 per cent and general cargo by 20 per cent by the end of this year and operate five shipping lines.

He said that Omanisation rate in the aviation sector has reached 70 per cent and the air cargo village at Muscat International Airport will be opened some time this year.

Addressing the gathering, Abdul Rahman al Hatmi, CEO, Asyad Group, said, “The Omanisation rate in the Asyad Group in the period 2016-18 increased from 74 per cent to 83 per cent with 4,118 Omani employees. In addition, 1,269 Omani employees were recruited in this period and 550 university students were trained.”

He added that the maritime transport in 2016 was only dependent on the oil and gas activities due to lack of complementary logistics services compared to 2018.

“A strategic plan for the integration of the shipping sector with ports and free zones sector was introduced and competitive services were provided to attract businesses and investors.”

Mustafa bin Mohammed al Hinai, CEO of Oman Aviation Group, said the group and its subsidiaries have been able to save over RO100mn through several initiatives. “The group’s plan for this year includes the preparation of long-term development initiatives to boost tourism services,” he said.

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