Salalah Port has completed a major container-terminal upgrade, raising its annual handling capacity to 6 million TEUs and reinforcing its status as one of the world’s leading transshipment hubs. The announcement was made during the Middle East Transport Forum 2025, held in Salalah from August 31 to September 2.
Ahmad Aubad Qatan, Chief Commercial Officer of Salalah Port, said the expansion reflects the port’s ambition to attract new mainline services and strengthen Oman’s logistics position under Vision 2040. “The upgrade sharpens our competitive edge and provides the headroom needed to support future growth,” he stated.
Launched in 1998, the facility now operates six berths with a 2,197-metre quay and 18-metre draft, capable of handling the world’s largest container vessels. The US$300 million upgrade expanded yard space and modernized berths, lifting the port’s capacity from 4.5 million to 6 million TEUs.
Salalah Port has consistently ranked among the world’s most efficient terminals, retaining the No. 2 spot globally in the World Bank and S&P Global Container Port Performance Index for 2023. Official statistics show the port handled 3.305 million TEUs in 2024, down from 3.794 million in 2023 and 4.504 million in 2022. Management emphasized that the new capacity will accommodate growth as shipping networks evolve and East–West trade demand increases.
Qatan highlighted the importance of collaboration across shipping lines, logistics services, and the adjacent industrial free zone to sustain high performance. “By working closely with our partners, attracting investment, and unlocking new opportunities, we can continue to deliver value to Oman’s economy and ensure Salalah remains a resilient global hub,” he said.
The Middle East Transport Forum, hosted at Millennium Resort Salalah and supported by Oman’s transport authorities, brought together senior policymakers, port operators, and logistics firms to discuss strategies for resilience, investment, and growth across regional supply chains.
