Overview
Al Wusta Governorate, meaning the Central Region, occupies a vast area of central Oman stretching from the interior desert to the Arabian Sea coast. Despite being one of the largest governorates by area, Al Wusta has one of the smallest populations, approximately 50,000, reflecting the harsh desert conditions across much of the territory. The governorate’s economic significance has been transformed by the development of the Special Economic Zone at Duqm on the coast, which is attracting billions of dollars in industrial investment. Al Wusta’s economy also includes fisheries along the coast, petroleum production in the interior, and the Arabian Oryx sanctuary at Jaaluni.
Key Facts
- One of the largest Omani governorates by area with sparse population
- Population of approximately 50,000 residents
- Home to the Special Economic Zone at Duqm on the Arabian Sea coast
- Major petroleum production areas in the interior desert
- Arabian Oryx sanctuary at Jaaluni supporting conservation efforts
- Fisheries sector along the Arabian Sea coastline
- Transforming from a peripheral region to an industrial investment destination
Significance for Vision 2040
Al Wusta represents perhaps the most dramatic transformation story within Vision 2040, as the development of the Duqm Special Economic Zone is converting one of Oman’s most sparsely populated and economically peripheral governorates into a major industrial hub. The billions of dollars being invested in the Duqm refinery, port, dry dock, and industrial estates are creating employment and economic activity that will fundamentally change the governorate’s demographic and economic profile. Vision 2040 targets Duqm’s development as a new city that will eventually house a population of hundreds of thousands. The conservation of the Arabian Oryx, which was brought back from extinction in the wild through Omani-led conservation efforts, demonstrates the environmental stewardship values that Vision 2040 promotes alongside economic development.