Muscat — Oman is steadily moving forward on its mission to decarbonise its transportation sector as part of its broader commitment to a low-carbon future. A senior government official stated that the country is adopting a strategic, multi-mode approach that covers everything from light vehicles and heavy trucks to shipping, port operations and aviation. Through these efforts, Oman aims to position itself as a regional leader in clean mobility and sustainable fuels.
During a panel discussion on Hydrogen Ecosystems at the Energy Executive Circle, Abdullah al Busaidy, Director General of the Oman Logistics Centre at the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MoTCIT), explained the core elements of Oman’s transport decarbonisation strategy. He noted that the Ministry is overseeing the creation of a national green transport framework that includes policy development, investment incentives and collaboration with public and private stakeholders.
According to Al Busaidy, the roadmap for light vehicles has been clear from the start, with Oman moving decisively toward electric mobility. However, decarbonising heavy transport remains more complex, and continued engagement with the private sector has been crucial. “Sustainable decarbonisation must be commercially viable for operators, and achieving that requires strong collaboration,” he said.
One of the Ministry’s major early achievements is the development and local manufacturing of a co-combustion truck technology. This innovation enables existing diesel trucks to be retrofitted to operate using both diesel and hydrogen. Trials conducted in Oman showed a 53% reduction in CO₂ emissions — a milestone that aligns with Oman’s transition goals without increasing operating costs for logistics companies.
The Ministry also plans to introduce designated green transport corridors, particularly connecting the ports of Suhar and Al Duqm with key concession areas. These routes will support heavy transport and future hydrogen-ready logistics networks.
In the maritime sector, Oman is exploring green bunkering solutions using green methanol as a fuel for shipping. A major agreement has been signed with an international consortium to assess the development of a large-scale green methanol production and supply project in Dhofar Governorate. This initiative is expected to play a central role in establishing Dhofar as a key hub for green fuels and low-carbon bunkering in the region.
Oman’s aviation sector is also undergoing significant change. Al Busaidy announced the launch of the country’s first sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) initiative, developed in partnership with Bauer Nimr, marking a major step toward cleaner air transport.
Furthermore, Oman is in the final stages of joining the Heavy Transport Decarbonisation Alliance, strengthening its engagement in global efforts and knowledge sharing. Al Busaidy highlighted localisation, cooperation and innovation as the three central pillars of the Ministry’s decarbonisation strategy. “Our goals are clear, our commitment is strong, and every challenge drives us to find better solutions,” he added.
The panel included contributions from prominent industry leaders such as Jürgen Rechberger of AVL List GmbH, Raul Ochagavia of ACCIONA Nordex Green Hydrogen, Ahmed al Abri of Hydrom, Anton Geers from the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, and Mohsin al Jabri of the Oman Net Zero Centre. The session was moderated by Siddiqa al Lawati, Advisor for Low Carbon Molecules at OQ.
