OPAZ announces tender for dry port construction and veterinary quarantine for the Economic Zone at Al Dhahirah (EZAD) IP3

The Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) announced today (February 17, 2025) the launch of the third package tender for the development of Economic Zone at Al Dhahira (EZAD), which includes the construction of dry port facilities and a veterinary quarantine.

OPAZ has invited experienced Omani and Saudi companies (JV) to purchase the tender documents and submit their bids before, 17th April, the upcoming deadline.

The dry port is the main driver of the Economic Zone at Dhahira (EZAD), located near the Omani-Saudi border (Al Rubaa Al Khali). It is being developed in collaboration between Sultanate of Oman and Saudi Arabia. The total area allocated for the dry port is 4 square kilometres, the first phase of the dry port will be constructed on 1 square kilometre, in addition the tender covering the construction of a veterinary quarantine.

Eng. Ibrahim Yousuf Al Zadjali Project Manager - Economic Zone at Al Dahirah stated that the new tender will enable the Economic Zone at Dhahira (EZAD) to achieve its objectives of enhancing trade between Sultanate of Oman and Saudi Arabia. The design incorporates the latest facilities and ensures the port is built with the highest standards and top-quality specifications taking into consideration all the stakeholders requirements.

He affirmed that the dry port, in integration with the border crossing, will shorten the time required for goods transported to and from the Sultanate of Oman via other entry points. This will be achieved by reducing the number of transit points, thereby decreasing the time needed for goods to reach their final destination.

He also noted that the dry port will facilitate the smooth flow of goods between the Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, enhance bilateral trade, strengthen investment partnerships, and attract further investment.

The tender includes the execution of civil, mechanical, electrical, plumbing and structural works for the dry port and veterinary quarantine. According to the tender specifications, the project will include the construction of a customs gate, inspection platforms, customs clearance areas, substation facilities, a maintenance workshop, laboratories, a water tank, fire protection systems, X-ray and scanning equipment, as well as the administration building, mosque, offices, rest areas, staff accommodations, fencing, and surveillance cameras and various other facilities. The dry port will be operated by Asyad Group a subsidiary of Oman Investment Authority (OIA), due to its experience in managing and operation such facilities.

Last year, the OPAZ awarded a consultancy services contract for the design and supervision of the first phase’s infrastructure facilities in the Economic Zone at Dhahira (EZAD) to a consortium of an Omani and a Saudi company. The first phase covers an area of 20 square kilometres.

Also, last year, OPAZ floated a tender for the construction of the main roads, protection channels, and surface water drainage systems for (EZAD), along with associated services and expected to award the tender before end of quarter 1 – 2025.

The total area of (EZAD) is 388 square kilometres, located 20 kilometres from the Rub Al-Khali border crossing. The establishment of this zone aims to stimulate trade between the Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, support economic diversification and development efforts, open new economic opportunities for the Sultanate of Oman and the wider Gulf region, and capitalise on the competitive advantages and strategic geographic location of the zone.