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

The lines will connect mines in Dhofar to the Duqm port, and mines in the north of the sultanate to the Sohar port.

“Minerals make up less than 1 per cent of GDP now,” said Al-Sunaidy. “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.