AGP Executive Report

Oman-Qatar Business Ties: Qatar’s commerce minister met Omani counterparts in Muscat to push trade, investment and private-sector cooperation, calling for ongoing coordination and visits to deepen “sustainable strategic partnerships.” Renewables Procurement: Oman’s PWP invited bids for legal consultancy on three “Solar 2030” projects totaling 3,000MW, with operations targeted for Q2 2030. Duqm Port Logistics Boost: Duqm Port received a BYD Ro-Ro vessel from China carrying 1,219 vehicles for GCC markets, highlighting the port’s growing capacity and its location outside the Strait of Hormuz. Transport Cooperation: Oman’s Public Works minister discussed Kuwait-Oman transport and logistics collaboration, with a focus on Duqm Port capabilities. GCC Food Security: Oman took part in Bahrain-hosted GCC talks on food security, including plans for strategic storage zones for food, medicine and essentials. Regional Security & Shipping: Oman rejected Iran’s proposal on joint Hormuz fee collection, according to reports, as tensions continue to disrupt maritime routes. CBI Training for Oman: India’s CBI ran an economic-offence investigation course for officers from ITEC member countries including Oman. Weather Watch (UAE): Rain and hail hit parts of Dubai and Al Ain, with further scattered rain expected.

Oman-Qatar Economic Links: Oman and Qatar reviewed ways to expand joint cooperation and investment, with focus on logistics and land and maritime transport, during talks in Muscat between Oman Investment Authority and Qatar’s commerce ministry. GCC Defence Coordination: Oman took part in the 30th meeting of GCC commanders of air forces and air defence in Bahrain, discussing joint action to develop GCC air defence and air force systems. Military Training Spotlight: Sultan Qaboos Military College held a practical live-fire demonstration for officer cadets’ final exercise “Shield 31” at Thumrait. Hormuz Shipping Pressure: Commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz slowed sharply, while Oman resumed talks with Iran on a temporary navigational corridor for vessel traffic. Royal Diplomacy: Britain’s King Charles and Queen Camilla will host Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tariq for a state visit at Windsor Castle from Oct. 20–22 amid wider Middle East tensions. Port of Duqm Growth: A BYD Ro-Ro ship carrying about 9,200 vehicles arrived at Port of Duqm, highlighting the port’s expanding vehicle-handling capacity.

Strait of Hormuz Escalation: The US and Iran resumed strikes after a monthlong lull, with Iran reporting missile and drone attacks on US-linked sites in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan, while CENTCOM said US strikes targeted IRGC air defence, radar, maritime and mine-laying capabilities—raising fears of wider disruption to the world’s key shipping lane. Shipping and Oil Impact: The US Navy escorted 40 vessels carrying about 18 million barrels through Hormuz, but tanker traffic remains tense as Iranian-owned ships wait at sea under a US blockade; meanwhile, oil prices stayed near highs amid renewed supply risk. Deadly Incident for Seafarers: Saudi Arabia condemned an Iranian attack on Bahri’s supertanker Sidr, killing two Filipino crew members, as another Hormuz security incident left two Filipino seafarers dead. Oman in the Mix: Oman’s role as a logistics corridor is highlighted in reports of ship-to-ship transfers off Oman, and Oman’s oil output rose 11.3% to 233.80 million barrels by end-July. Regional Diplomacy and Business: Oman and Egypt discussed joint industrial zones to deepen economic integration, while Omani participation as guest of honor at Iraq’s Baghdad Book Fair underscored cultural ties. Oman Travel Advisory: The US kept Oman at Level 3 “Reconsider Travel,” citing risks of armed conflict and terrorism, including possible drone and missile attacks.

Fog Harvesting in Dhofar: Oman’s Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources ministry is rolling out a fog-harvesting project in Dhofar mountains to study using Khareef-season fog as a non-conventional water source, including installing monitoring stations across nine locations. Research & Innovation Diplomacy: Oman chaired the semi-annual meeting of the Federation of Arab Scientific Research Councils, reviewing research awards, Arab researcher networks, and funding for regional scientific programmes. Drones for Medical Supply: Dhofar launched the second phase of the “Sky Bridge” drone initiative, using the 150kg “Sahm” drone to deliver medical cargo from Salalah to Al Halaniyat. COP31 Prep: Oman’s Environment Authority held early workshops to coordinate national teams for COP31 tracks, covering governance, negotiations and media plans. Health Community Event: Oman Cancer Association announced details for its 22nd annual “Walk with Hope” walkathon on 29-30 October at Qurum Natural Park. UN Nuclear-Free Zone: Oman chaired UN talks on building a Middle East zone free of nuclear weapons and other WMDs, focusing on treaty structure and monitoring. Regional Security Shock: US-Iran strikes and retaliations are again rattling markets and shipping around the Strait of Hormuz, with oil prices holding near recent highs and traffic reported to be falling.

Strait of Hormuz Crisis: Iran and the US traded fresh strikes again, after two Saudi-linked tankers were hit near Oman; oil jumped and markets slid as bond yields rose, while Iran’s president said Tehran would return to the June ceasefire if Washington honors its commitments. Oman’s Role in De-escalation: Oman and Iran continue technical talks on managing shipping traffic through Hormuz, with Oman pushing back on Iranian claims about the talks and Saudi-Omani leadership meetings in Jeddah focused on regional security. Regional Diplomacy: Qatar stepped up mediation efforts with Oman and Pakistan, warning against treating any closure of Hormuz as a fait accompli and urging restraint. Oman Local Updates: Muscat Governorate has begun field work on Oman’s National Addressing Project, with street sign installation and verification already underway in pilot areas. Business & Finance: Oman’s central bank raised OMR 26.9mn via treasury bills, while a separate GCC finance story highlighted Shariah approval for early wage access in Saudi. Sports: Oman’s basketball team beat Nepal in Asian Cup qualifiers, while Kuwait qualified despite losing to Bahrain.

Strait of Hormuz Tensions: Two Saudi oil supertankers were hit by unknown projectiles while exiting the Strait of Hormuz near Oman, with one incident reported by UKMTO and shipping trackers describing near-simultaneous attacks—raising fresh supply fears as Brent climbed above $92. Oman Energy Update: Oman’s natural gas production rose 6.4% by end-July 2026 to 34.97bn cubic metres, with higher associated and non-associated gas output. Local Culture & Heritage: The National Museum in Muscat signed a cooperation agreement with the Omani Women’s Association to safeguard cultural heritage and boost community awareness. Tourism Standards: Oman launched a three-day “Halal Tourism” workshop in Salalah to build standards and certification for hotels, restaurants and related services. Sports & Community: Oman Camel Racing Federation announced the 2026/2027 season programme, starting 29 September, while Oman’s OOC held a Promising Athletes Forum in Dhofar. International Watch: Thailand cut visa-free stays for tourists from more than 60 countries including Oman from 60 to 30 days from September 15.

US-Iran Escalation and Hormuz Risk: Trump vowed “hit them hard” after the first direct exchange in a month, following US strikes on Iran’s Larak Island over alleged mine-launch preparations and Iran’s retaliatory missile/drone attacks on US bases in Jordan and the UAE. Oil and Shipping Pressure: Oil jumped above $90 as traders priced renewed Strait of Hormuz disruption; a tanker incident off Oman was also reported, and Iran claimed a supertanker struck mines in the southern Hormuz. Oman in the Middle: Amid mediation efforts involving Oman, the latest flare-up adds fresh doubt to talks over reopening the corridor. Oman Business Watch: Al Jazeera Steel completed US subsidiary setup in Suhar’s push for direct market presence. Local Economy and Energy: OGRA raised LPG prices for September, while NGC sought LPG pricing relief as costs squeeze margins. Weather: NCM forecast rain in parts of the UAE and Oman with fog risk in coastal and inland areas.

Central Banking: Oman’s central bank raised OMR26.9mn via treasury bills, including 91-day, 182-day and 364-day lots, with yields around 3.8–4.0%. Hormuz Flashpoint: The US and Iran traded strikes again after a month-long lull, with the US hitting rocket launchers on Larak Island over alleged mine plans, and Iran retaliating with missiles and drones targeting US bases in Jordan and the UAE; Jordan says it intercepted eight missiles. Oil Markets: Brent jumped back above $90 as diesel crack spreads neared $100, with Hormuz risk pushing prices higher. Oman-Iran Diplomacy: Oman and Iran are still working on a temporary shipping corridor and revenue-sharing ideas, but reopening remains tied to US commitments. Local Consumer Watch: Authorities seized 220+ packs of Raqaq bread in Al Khabourah over expiry-date manipulation. SME Support: Riyada Plus launched with Nama Electricity to help SMEs manage electricity dues through flexible payments and efficiency support. Regional Business: Oman’s NRAA discussed documentary and scientific cooperation with Uzbekistan, while a GCC social investment forum in Salalah urged a national framework for social investment.

Strait of Hormuz Tensions: The US struck Iranian rocket launchers on Larak Island after Iran-linked forces were seen preparing sea-mine attacks, breaking a month-long lull; Iran’s Revolutionary Guards vowed retaliation and reported missile strikes on US bases in Jordan, while Jordan said it intercepted eight missiles. Oman Economy & Finance: Oman’s banks extended loans beyond their deposit base, with the loan-to-deposit ratio hitting 102.9% at end-June as private deposits rose 12.45% to OMR19.37bn. Infrastructure in Musandam: Oman’s Sultan Faisal bin Turki Road project is 76% complete, cutting Khasab–Dibba travel time to about 55 minutes. Health Policy: Oman added “death cases for Omanis” to fee exemptions for therapeutic services, expanding the number of exempt groups to 18. Road Safety: Oman launched an investigation after a Samail steel-coil truck crash killed six women and injured 18. Culture & Business: Amouage highlighted a new supply chain for Omani rose fragrance raw materials, while Oman Medical Specialty Board welcomed 388 doctors and nurses into specialised training.

Energy Update: Oman’s total electricity generation rose 4.5% by end of July 2026 to 31,732.5 GWh, with Muscat up 197.4% and Al Dakhiliyah up 41.8%, while Musandam and North/South Al Sharqiyah saw declines. Telecom Regulation: The TRA issued a Number Portability Regulatory Framework to let users switch providers without changing numbers, with standardized, time-bound procedures and penalties. Education Survey: NCSI launched a survey on promoting lifelong learning in Oman, covering 1,200 Omanis (18+) in Muscat, Nizwa and Sur via telephone interviews. Cybersecurity Strategy: Oman rolled out a national cybersecurity strategy 2026–2030 focused on protecting critical infrastructure and strengthening resilience, skills and cooperation. Public Safety: Royal Oman Police arrested a livestock theft gang accused of stealing 130+ animals in North Al Batinah. Road Tragedy: A Samail multi-vehicle crash killed six and injured 18; an investigation is underway. Culture & Tourism: Jabal Akhdar Festival 2026 drew 300,000+ visitors over 45 days, and Muscat Theatre Festival registration opened for December. Maritime Tensions: Iran says the Strait of Hormuz remains closed and any reopening via Oman depends on US commitments, as traffic stays sharply reduced.

Strait of Hormuz Diplomacy: Iran says its understanding with Oman on a temporary Hormuz transit route won’t be implemented until the US fulfills commitments under the Islamabad MoU, keeping the waterway “closed” for now. US Claims Control of Hormuz: The White House counters that the US controls the strait, citing mine-clearing, protection of nearly 1,500 vessels, and zero Iranian oil exports since a renewed blockade. Oman Economy Watch: Oman’s GDP grew 2.6% in Q1 2026, with petroleum up 4.6% and non-oil up 2.4%, alongside higher trade and bank deposits. Duqm Clean Energy: Oman advances Duqm City’s renewable push with two wind projects at SEZAD totaling 58MW and about 190GWh annually. Road Safety Tragedy: A steel-coil truck crash near Samail killed six women and injured 18, prompting an investigation. Business & Markets: MSX profits rose 26% to about OMR1.2bn in H1; the MSX 30 edged up slightly amid Iran-sanctions worries. Culture & Tourism: Oman Across Ages Museum welcomed its one millionth visitor.

Oman–Saudi Economic Push: Oman and Saudi Arabia will meet in Salalah next Wednesday to review progress on joint economic initiatives and speed up trade and industrial integration, with a focus on supply chains, non-oil exports, investment and private-sector partnerships. Dhofar Investment Drive: Oman’s “Invest in Oman” platform has unveiled five Dhofar opportunities worth about OMR1.95bn, including the large-scale Future Salalah City project (about OMR1.9bn) plus urban, eco-tourism and marine tourism developments. Water Security in Salalah: A UN water symposium on “Water and Climate Change” opens in Salalah, bringing together local and international experts on floods, drought, salinity, aflaj protection, desalination, reuse and water-tech tools like AI and remote sensing. Banking Snapshot: Private deposits at Oman’s commercial banks rose 12.45% to over OMR19bn by end-June 2026, according to Central Bank data. Markets Watch: MSX-listed public shareholding companies lifted net profits 26% to around OMR1.2bn in H1 2026, while the MSX 30 index edged up 0.13% in weekly trading. Health, Safety, Environment: Oman’s energy regulator is strengthening HSE rules across oil and gas, citing improved safety performance and fewer serious traffic accidents. Drugs Seizure: Over 3,000kg of narcotics were seized in Dhofar, with two Yemeni nationals arrested. Regional Shipping Tensions: Strait of Hormuz traffic is up week-on-week, but remains far below pre-war levels as Iran and the US trade claims over reopening and control.

Strait of Hormuz diplomacy: Iran’s FM Abbas Araghchi says “putting diplomacy back on track isn’t impossible,” arguing U.S. pressure “doesn’t work,” as mediators including Qatar and Pakistan push talks and Tehran and Oman continue discussing how to manage shipping in the Strait. Oman-Iran talks and shipping: Reports say Oman and Iran have been working on a temporary safe corridor and practical arrangements to restore navigation, while the U.S. keeps up economic pressure and claims mines have been cleared. Regional diplomacy and sanctions: Iraq’s FM Fuad Hussein spoke by phone with Oman’s counterpart Badr al-Busaidi on Hormuz understandings and the impact of new U.S. sanctions on regional trade and finance. Fuel and market ripple for Oman: With hopes of mediation after Iran resumed talks with Oman, global oil anxiety eased and local fuel price rollbacks are being discussed, though any cut may be capped by renewed oil-price rebounds. Oman standards: Oman introduced three water-flow measurement standards (electromagnetic, mechanical, ultrasonic) to improve accuracy and water resource management. Sports: Seeb begin their Jindal League title defence this weekend, and Omani referee Dr Issam al Siyabi is set for FIBA Asia Cup 2029 pre-qualifiers in Malaysia.

Oman-Iran Hormuz Diplomacy: Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi says diplomacy is “not impossible” but only if the US drops its pressure, after talks in Tehran with Qatar’s PM and renewed mediation involving Oman; Iran is also preparing conditions for reopening Strait of Hormuz traffic, while the White House says there are no talks and sanctions remain the focus. US Naval Claims vs Shipping Reality: US CENTCOM says it has cleared Iranian mines from internationally recognized Hormuz lanes and helped about 1,500 commercial vessels transit, but shipping data shows traffic is still far below normal, with only seven commodity ships passing on Thursday. Economic Pressure Escalates: Washington is shifting harder toward sanctions under “Operation Economic Outcast,” warning countries and entities that do business with Iran could face retaliation, as Iran warns sanctions make countries “complicit.” Oil Market Watch: Crude prices edged lower on hopes for Hormuz reopening talks, even as flows remain uneven and the strait stays a key risk for global energy. Local Relevance: Oman’s role in Hormuz talks and regional stability remains central, alongside broader Gulf efforts to reduce escalation.

Hormuz Diplomacy: Qatar’s PM and foreign minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani met Iran’s top diplomat Abbas Araghchi in Tehran, pushing a proposed Iran-Oman framework to manage the Strait of Hormuz, stressing freedom of navigation and de-escalation as the US threatens wider secondary sanctions under its “economic asphyxiation” push. Oman-Iran Shipping Talks: Iran and Oman continue working on a temporary corridor and mine-clearing plan, with Tehran saying reopening hinges on US steps, while US officials insist Iran does not control the strait. Security on the Waterway: A tanker was hit by an “unknown projectile” near Oman, with fire contained and no crew injuries reported, as maritime agencies warn risks remain despite claims of mine clearance. Oil Market Impact: Crude prices edged up on hopes of Hormuz progress, but analysts and energy chiefs warn disruptions could take longer to unwind, keeping supply uncertainty in focus. Oman Solidarity: Oman sent condolences to Nepal after deadly floods and to Pakistan after a hospital fire in Islamabad. Regional Politics: Iran’s president told Qatar Iran won’t “submit to bullying,” while US President Trump said Washington is not currently negotiating with Tehran.

Strait of Hormuz Talks: Iran and Oman are negotiating a temporary shipping corridor and mine-clearance plan, with Tehran linking any reopening to US acceptance of its conditions; Qatar’s prime minister is also heading to Tehran to revive de-escalation, while shipping traffic remains far below pre-war levels. New Shipping Risks: A tanker near Oman’s Khasab was hit by an “unknown projectile,” and Iran’s blacklist threat is reshaping shuttle-tanker trade, pushing some refiners to avoid certain vessels. Oil Market Impact: Brent and WTI extended losses as diplomacy raised hopes of easing supply disruptions, though the strait is still effectively constrained. Oman Development Focus: Oman is rolling out its 11th Five-Year Development Plan (2026–2030) under Vision 2040, aiming for measurable outcomes across people, economy, environment, and governance. Industrial Strategy: Oman is targeting smarter industrial growth with 30 priority activities across seven clusters, boosting local value addition and non-oil exports. Business & Tech: Nvidia’s blockbuster guidance lifted global markets, while the US is reportedly considering sweeping chip tariffs.