Oman’s Public Establishment for Industrial Estates (Madayn) has surpassed OMR 164 million (USD 426 million) in total investments in the food sector across its industrial cities—marking a significant step in advancing the country’s food security and economic diversification efforts.
Currently, Madayn hosts 98 food industry projects spread across more than 1.5 million square meters, collectively employing over 3,600 people. This growth reflects ongoing collaboration between Madayn and government entities, especially the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources, to attract both local and international investments that align with Oman Vision 2040.
According to Khalid Al Salehi, Director General of Marketing and Commercial Affairs at Madayn, the organization successfully secured 13 new food sector projects in 2025 alone, representing investments exceeding OMR 14 million. These projects—spanning over 224,000 square meters—include production facilities for vegetable oils, flour, tuna, bottled water, food packaging, and logistics services.
Al Salehi added that further investment agreements are under review, with more food-related projects expected to be localized throughout 2025.
In support of this strategic sector, Madayn has allocated dedicated plots for food industry development in its existing industrial cities and designated agricultural zones in upcoming sites in Al Mudhaibi, Thumrait, and Al Suwaiq. One key initiative, “Madayn Agriculture,” launched in partnership with the Ministry, aims to introduce greenhouses in industrial zones to boost domestic food production, support entrepreneurs, and improve trade balance by reducing imports and enhancing exports.
Madayn has also expanded international cooperation, recently signing an MoU with a South Korean company to develop a specialized food project in Oman. This initiative includes building smart farms for cultivating Korean fruits and launching a café that features farm-grown products.
Al Salehi emphasized Madayn’s increased promotional activities, including global campaigns and participation in trade exhibitions, to spotlight investment opportunities in the food industry.
As one of the pillars of Oman’s industrial landscape, the food sector plays a vital role in strengthening national food security and driving economic diversification in line with Oman Vision 2040.
Source: Times of Oman
