Sohar Port cargo throughput jumps 52% to 52m tonnes in H1
New freezone contracts worth $589m were signed during the period, while container and breakbulk activity also recorded strong growth SOHAR Port and Freezone recorded a 52% increase in total cargo throughput during the first half of 2026, reaching 52 million metric tonnes as activity strengthened across its maritime, logistics and industrial operations.
The Oman-based port maintained performance across its diversified cargo portfolio during the period, with ship-to-ship cargo handling reaching 24.38 million metric tonnes.
Container throughput rose 40% to 545,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), driven largely by higher transshipment activity. Breakbulk cargo also nearly doubled to 1.24 million metric tonnes.
Dry bulk volumes moderated during the first half, although the port recorded 1,555 vessel calls during the period, highlighting continued activity across its maritime operations.
The results come as SOHAR advances a series of port and freezone projects with a combined investment value of $6.82 billion. The projects are focused on expanding infrastructure, increasing industrial capacity and strengthening the port’s position as a regional logistics and industrial hub.
Emile Hoogsteden, CEO of SOHAR Port, said the results reflected the flexibility of the integrated port and freezone model.
“The first half of 2026 demonstrates the adaptability of SOHAR’s integrated port and freezone model and the strength of our long-term strategy,” he said.
“As trade continues to evolve, we remain committed to investing in world-class infrastructure, strengthening maritime connectivity, and enhancing operational excellence.”
$589m in new freezone investments
SOHAR Freezone also maintained its investment momentum, signing five new investment contracts worth a combined $589 million during the first half of the year.
Leased warehouse space increased 19% year-on-year to approximately 37,000 sq m, pointing to continued demand for industrial and logistics facilities within the freezone.
Dr Raid Al Rubaiey, CEO of SOHAR Freezone and Deputy CEO of SOHAR Port, said the focus remained on attracting industrial investment that could strengthen Oman’s wider economy.
“Our ambition extends beyond attracting investment; it is about creating lasting economic value through high-quality industrial development,” he said.
SOHAR is targeting industries that can build on Oman’s existing industrial base, deepen local and regional value chains and contribute to the country’s economic diversification strategy under Oman Vision 2040.
The port and freezone form part of Oman’s wider effort to strengthen its position as a logistics and industrial centre, with their combined infrastructure linking maritime trade with industrial and warehousing facilities.
Beyond its commercial activity, SOHAR also carried out nine corporate social responsibility initiatives during the first half of 2026, reaching more than 37,450 beneficiaries.
Healthcare and wellbeing programmes accounted for more than 36,000 beneficiaries, while youth and education initiatives reached approximately 1,150 students.
The fourth edition of Maseer, SOHAR’s summer programme focused on practical skills development, also saw more than 400 students receive certifications accredited by Oman’s Ministry of Labour.
