Oman is considering the results of feasibility studies of rail lines connecting areas rich in minerals and major ports, according to the Minister of Industry & Commerce Ali Masoud Al-Sunaidy, who was speaking at MEED’s Outlook Oman conference on 24 October.

The lines would connect mines in Dhofar to Duqm Port, and mines in the north of the Sultanate to Sohar Port.

“Minerals make up less than 1 per cent of GDP now,” says Sunaidi. “But this has a lot of potential to grow, thanks to easing regulations, and new discoveries of copper, gypsum and rare earths.”

Oman has planned a $12bn rail scheme which has been delayed due to the fall in oil prices.