Definition
Oman Rail (formally Oman National Railway) is the planned national railway network intended to connect the Sultanate’s major ports, industrial zones, mining areas, and population centres by rail for the first time. The project would also link Oman to the planned GCC Railway, providing overland freight connectivity to the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and beyond. Oman Rail is a transformative infrastructure project designed to reduce logistics costs, support industrial development, and position Oman as a multimodal transport hub.
Context in Oman
Planning for Oman Rail began in earnest in the early 2010s, with Oman Rail LLC established as the government entity responsible for design, construction, and operation. The network is envisioned in multiple phases. The highest-priority segment connects the port of Sohar to the mineral-rich areas of Al Dhahirah governorate (Buraimi and nearby mining sites), enabling efficient export of gypsum, limestone, and chromite. Subsequent phases would extend the network south to Duqm and Salalah and north to link with the UAE Etihad Rail. Financing is expected through a combination of public funds, PPPs, and international development banks.
Key Data Points
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Planned network length | ~2,135 km (full build-out) |
| Phase 1 route | Sohar to Al Dhahirah mining areas |
| Project entity | Oman Rail LLC |
| Key commodities | Minerals, petrochemicals, containers |
| GCC Railway link | Planned connection via UAE |
Vision 2040 Connection
Oman Rail is a cornerstone logistics project under Vision 2040. The strategy identifies multimodal transport connectivity as essential for reducing supply chain costs, boosting non-oil exports, and unlocking the economic potential of inland regions. Rail transport would complement Oman port infrastructure and support the growth of the mining and manufacturing sectors.
Further Reading
- [[What is a Logistics Hub]]
- [[What is a Special Economic Zone]]
- [[Oman Mining Sector]]