Muscat: QS Maritime, the operator of Shinas Port, has announced a significant expansion project exceeding RO 77 million, aimed at transforming the port into a major logistics hub in northern Oman. The development is set to commence by the end of 2025 and is expected to span five to seven years.
Engineer Abdulbaqi bin Ahmed Al Kindi, CEO of QS Maritime, stated that the first phase will involve expanding the existing basin southward and constructing a new northern breakwater. These enhancements are designed to accommodate larger vessels and increase the port’s operational efficiency. The total area of the port will be expanded to approximately 1.8 million square meters, facilitating the development of fuel storage tanks, factories, and warehouses to support both re-export activities and the domestic market.
In addition to infrastructure upgrades, a new sea route between Shinas Port and Bandar Abbas Port in Iran is scheduled to begin operations in the last quarter of this year. The passenger line will operate two trips per week using ferries with a capacity of 200 passengers and their vehicles. A passenger terminal equipped with security and inspection services is nearing completion at the port .
Shinas Port has already witnessed significant growth in commercial activity, with the number of ships increasing to 306 in the first quarter of 2025, compared to 119 during the same period in 2024. The port handled over 186,000 tonnes of assorted cargo over two years, including construction materials, foodstuffs, general cargo, as well as livestock and camels. Additionally, 42 transshipment operations covering a total weight of 173,000 tonnes were executed in Q1 2025, surpassing the port’s total transshipment volume for 2024 .
This ambitious expansion underscores Oman’s commitment to enhancing its maritime infrastructure and positioning Shinas Port as a pivotal player in regional trade and logistics.
