Hubbry Logo
SoharSoharMain
Open search
Sohar
Community hub
Sohar
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Sohar
Sohar
Sohar
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Sohar (Arabic: صُحَار, romanized: Ṣuḥār) is the capital and largest city of the Al Batinah North Governorate in Oman. An ancient capital of the country that once served as an important Islamic port town on the Gulf of Oman,[4] Sohar has also been credited as the mythical birthplace of Sinbad the Sailor.[5] It was historically known as Mazūn (مَزُوْن).[1][2][3]

Key Information

At the 2010 census, Sohar's population was 140,006, making it Oman's fifth most-populated settlement.[6] Described as an industrial town,[7] the development of the Sohar Industrial Port during the 2000s has transformed it into a major Omani industrial hub.

History

[edit]
See also: History of Oman and Tawam (region)
The 16th-century Portuguese fortress, in a drawing of the 17th-centiry Book of Fortress


As the largest town in the region, it has been argued that Sohar is to be identified with the ancient town called 'Omanah' (Arabic: عُمَانَة) mentioned by Pliny the Elder in his Natural History. This settlement is believed to have given Oman its name.[8]

According to Al-Tabari, in 893 or 894 C.E., during the Abbasid era, there was a dispute about who should rule Oman amongst local factions. A faction that approached the Abbasids was the Bani Sama, who were based in Buraimi, before moving to Sohar. The Bani Sama also referred to themselves as the Wajihid Dynasty, and assumed leadership over the region. The present-day town of Buraimi is part of a historical region that Tabari referred to as 'Tawam', which is now believed to have encapsulated much of the present day United Arab Emirates, and to have been named for St Thomas the Apostle of the East.[9]

By the 10th century, Sohar was one of the richest ports of the Persian Gulf. It was praised by Ibn Hawqal and Al-Maqdisi, who called it "flourishing, populous, beautiful, pleasant and delightful", and compared it favourably with the ports of China. Aloes, wood, bamboo, sandalwood and spices were brought from India and frankincense from Dhofar. The city was sacked by the Buwayhids in 971 and its trade went into decline. It also suffered from attacks by the merchants of Kish across the gulf, who briefly took control of the city around 1100. Sohar then became the initial seat of the Sultanate of Sohar, under the rule of the Bani Nabhan dynasty. They achieved ascendancy after being appointed governors of Sohar by their Buyid suzerains.[10] The city's famous fort was constructed in the late 13th century by the "Princes of Hormuz" while the city remained under Nabhani control.[11] The two entities maintained an agreement over maritime and internal control of Oman.[10] After a period of ruin, Sohar was re-established in the 15th century as a minor port under the Hormuzi-Qalhati sphere of influence.[10] It was still an international port until at least the 16th century.[12]

Portuguese occupation

[edit]

In the early 16th century, Sohar was conquered by the Portuguese Empire, which used the city to control the entrances to the Persian Gulf and trade in the region. It was part of a web of fortresses controlled by the Portuguese, from Bahrain to Hormuz, and was depicted in António Bocarro's 17th-century Book of Fortresses.[13]

Recent history

[edit]

Starting on 26 February 2011, Sohar was the site of mass protests, part of the Arab Spring uprisings. Although protests also occurred in Muscat and Salalah, the Sohar protests were the biggest in the country, attracting an estimated 2,000 people at times.[14] The protesters' initial demands were for more job opportunities and greater political participation; later demonstrations also called for the release of detained protesters and an inquiry into the use of violence by security forces.[15] The protests centered on Sohar's Globe Roundabout. In response, Sultan Qaboos announced reforms and a jobs program, and reshuffled the Omani cabinet.[14]

Infrastructure

[edit]

Industry

[edit]

A number of enterprises and investment projects in Sohar are centred around the Port of Sohar. Established in 2002, the port has a strategic importance due to its nearness to the Strait of Hormuz. It is operated by the Sohar Industrial Port Company (SIPC). With current investments exceeding $12 billion, it is one of the world’s largest port development projects. The port's container terminal, managed by Hutchison Ports[16] handles the majority of the container cargo of North Al Batinah region of the Sultanate.

The industrial development of Sohar was prioritised in the Omani Government's economic development plan in 2020. Investments include more than $5 billion in the steel industry in which Oman aims to be one of the Gulf Cooperation Council's leading producers. In addition to the steel industry, there is also the industry of aluminium in Sohar industrial area. The Sohar Aluminium Company was established in 2004[17] and it is considered one of the leading projects that play a major role in the sultanate’s economic diversification strategy.

Education

[edit]

Sohar has four high educational institutes:

Suhar also has a number of international schools such as:

  • Al Batinah International School (owned by Sohar Aluminium & ORPIC) – only IB SCHOOL[22]
  • Sohar International School (S.I.S)
  • Indian School Sohar[23]
  • Pakistan School Sohar
  • Bangladesh School Sohar

Parks

[edit]

Sohar has four main parks. The first is Sohar Park, located in Al Humbar. The second is the Silver Jubilee Park which is located in Sallan. The third is the Entertainment Park in Sanaiyyah. The fourth is in falaj alqabail. There are many other parks, like Alminyal, Alsanqar, Alsuwaihra, Al Ons, Corniche park and Aluwaynat park. The city also has the Sohar Regional Sports Complex.

Landmarks

[edit]
The Grand Mosque

Climate

[edit]

Sohar has a hot desert climate (Köppen climate classification BWh) with very hot summers and mild winters. Precipitation is low; more than half of the year's total rainfall falls in February, and summers are almost completely dry.

Climate data for Sohar (1991–2020 normals, extremes 1980–2021)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °C (°F) 33.1
(91.6) 		34.4
(93.9) 		39.8
(103.6) 		44.5
(112.1) 		50.8
(123.4) 		48.5
(119.3) 		50.0
(122.0) 		46.0
(114.8) 		43.2
(109.8) 		44.4
(111.9) 		37.7
(99.9) 		33.9
(93.0) 		50.8
(123.4)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 24.5
(76.1) 		25.5
(77.9) 		27.9
(82.2) 		32.4
(90.3) 		36.5
(97.7) 		36.9
(98.4) 		36.0
(96.8) 		34.8
(94.6) 		34.5
(94.1) 		33.4
(92.1) 		29.6
(85.3) 		26.3
(79.3) 		31.5
(88.7)
Daily mean °C (°F) 19.8
(67.6) 		20.7
(69.3) 		23.0
(73.4) 		27.1
(80.8) 		31.2
(88.2) 		33.0
(91.4) 		33.0
(91.4) 		32.0
(89.6) 		30.8
(87.4) 		28.5
(83.3) 		24.5
(76.1) 		21.3
(70.3) 		27.1
(80.7)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 15.0
(59.0) 		16.0
(60.8) 		18.1
(64.6) 		22.0
(71.6) 		26.0
(78.8) 		28.9
(84.0) 		29.8
(85.6) 		28.9
(84.0) 		26.9
(80.4) 		23.6
(74.5) 		19.2
(66.6) 		16.4
(61.5) 		22.6
(72.6)
Record low °C (°F) 5.7
(42.3) 		5.4
(41.7) 		6.8
(44.2) 		11.2
(52.2) 		16.0
(60.8) 		19.7
(67.5) 		20.6
(69.1) 		21.4
(70.5) 		17.4
(63.3) 		11.1
(52.0) 		8.0
(46.4) 		7.4
(45.3) 		5.4
(41.7)
Average precipitation mm (inches) 4.7
(0.19) 		56.2
(2.21) 		17.0
(0.67) 		7.8
(0.31) 		2.5
(0.10) 		0.0
(0.0) 		0.1
(0.00) 		0.0
(0.0) 		0.5
(0.02) 		0.0
(0.0) 		3.8
(0.15) 		15.9
(0.63) 		108.5
(4.28)
Average relative humidity (%) 72 74 72 65 63 70 77 80 79 73 72 74 73
Mean monthly sunshine hours 269.4 228.6 230.8 276.0 322.4 310.9 281.5 275.6 276.3 284.6 257.5 259.8 3,273.4
Source 1: NOAA (precipitation, humidity and sun 1980–1990)[27]
Source 2: Starlings Roost Weather[28]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]

Further reading

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Sohar

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Sohar (Arabic: صُحَار) is the capital and largest city of in the Sultanate of , located on the northern coast overlooking the approximately 200 kilometers northwest of . An ancient settlement with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years, it emerged as a pivotal port for maritime trade, particularly noted for production and export in antiquity. During the early Islamic period (7th–9th centuries CE), Sohar functioned as a major hub in the network, facilitating exchanges of commodities such as textiles, silk, spices, and ceramics between regions including , , , , and , earning it the epithet "gateway to " in historical accounts. It served as the capital of for several historical periods and is traditionally regarded as the legendary birthplace of . The city's strategic coastal position supported its prosperity until shifts in regional power dynamics, including Portuguese influence in later centuries, altered its dominance. In contemporary , Sohar has been revitalized as a key industrial center, featuring Sohar Port, a free zone, an , and integrated economic clusters such as aluminum production, aligning with national efforts for economic diversification beyond oil dependency. This development leverages its geographic advantages for trade and logistics, positioning it as a vital node in global supply chains.

History

Ancient and Early Islamic Periods

Archaeological evidence indicates human occupation in the Sohar region dating back to the BCE, with tomb structures resembling smaller-scale Umm an-Nar models and associated craft items suggesting early and cultural exchanges. The site's pre-Islamic remains sparsely documented, but surveys in the hinterland reveal ephemeral settlements linked to Iron Age activity, with an upward chronological revision pointing to sustained presence into the late pre-Islamic era. From around 600 BCE, the Omani coast, including the Batinah plain where Sohar is located, fell under Persian domination, lasting nearly a millennium until the 7th century CE; this period saw the introduction of the falaj underground irrigation system by Achaemenid Persians, supporting agriculture in the fertile hinterland. In the Sasanian phase (5th–7th centuries CE), defensive structures like the Fulayj fort— a 30x30 meter stone-built fortification 32 km southeast of Sohar—protected commercial and agricultural routes, evidenced by plant remains including early sorghum cultivation and military architecture typical of Sasanian cordons. Oman, including Sohar, encountered during Muhammad's lifetime around 630 CE, with consolidation during the in 632 CE under 'Amr ibn al-'As; the Julanda brothers, local rulers, accepted , prompting the tribe—recent migrants from Yemen's region in the 6th century—to besiege and expel the Persian garrison at Sohar, forcing the governor's surrender. This marked the transition from Sasanian control, with Fulayj fort reoccupied around the Islamic conquest, reflecting continuity in hinterland defense amid political shifts. By the 7th–9th centuries CE, Sohar emerged as a pivotal Indian Ocean entrepôt, alongside ports like Basra and Siraf, driven by Omani Arab mariners linking trade routes from China, India, Iraq, Iran, and Egypt in commodities such as textiles, silk, spices, ceramics, and aromatics. Ninth-century historians including al-Tabari, al-Baladhuri, and al-Muqaddasi described it as the "gateway to China," underscoring its role under the first Ibadi imamate during the Abbasid era. Archaeological reassessments of 1980s excavations, incorporating radiocarbon dating, confirm 7th–8th century occupation with ceramics spanning Mesopotamia to East Africa, though early Islamic remains like buildings and a seaside mosque near the bazaar lie buried beneath later layers. Ibadi imams developed jurisprudence suited to maritime commerce, bolstering Sohar's economic prominence into the 10th century.

Portuguese Occupation and Colonial Era

In 1507, Portuguese explorer arrived at Sohar, compelling the city to pay tribute without immediate full conquest and documenting its pre-existing fortress as a square structure featuring six towers and two additional towers above the gate. The Portuguese initially integrated Sohar into their network of coastal enclaves along the to dominate Indian Ocean trade routes, particularly access to the . Local rebellions prompted Portuguese reassertion of authority, with forces recapturing in and again in 1523. Between 1559 and 1561, the Portuguese enhanced defenses by constructing a new square fortress with bastions, encircled by walls, transforming the site into a robust stronghold. This fortification underscored Sohar's role as a forward base for the Portuguese Estado da Índia, supporting maritime in regional staples like dates, , and horses while countering rival powers such as the Ottomans and . By the early , unified Omani resistance under the Ya'ariba imamate eroded control across the coast. Omani leader Nasir ibn Murshid directed forces that seized the Sohar fort in 1643, marking the conclusion of occupation in the and contributing to their broader expulsion from by 1650. The Ya'ariba victory at Sohar facilitated Omani resurgence in Gulf trade, shifting power dynamics away from European interlopers.

19th and Early 20th Centuries

In 1851, Sultan Sayyid Sa‘īd bin Sultan captured Sohar, integrating it as a dependency of and establishing a strategic foothold on the Batinah coast to counter local tribal influences. This consolidation bolstered the Al Bu Sa‘īd dynasty's control over coastal trade routes, with Sohar exporting key agricultural commodities including dates, limes, and lemons to markets in , , and the . The city's port role persisted amid dynastic efforts to stabilize the region following earlier Wahhabi incursions around 1803. Sa‘īd's death in 1856 triggered succession rivalries that directly impacted Sohar. His son Turki bin Sa‘īd, appointed governor in 1854, defended the city's control as a gateway to and the interior against challenges from his brother Thuwayni, who imposed blockades in 1857 and 1859 using volatile tribal alliances from Hinawi and Ghafiri confederations. These episodes highlighted ongoing coastal-interior tensions but did not dislodge Al Bu Sa‘īd authority, with Turki ultimately consolidating power by 1868 after British-mediated interventions in Omani affairs. Into the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Sohar operated as a subdued trading outpost under Muscat's , focusing on regional commerce in dates and fisheries amid the Sultanate's broader decline marked by internal divisions, economic isolation, and escalating influence via treaties like the 1891 Exclusive Agreement. Tribal skirmishes along the Batinah persisted sporadically, reflecting enduring confederation rivalries, though the city's strategic port diminished in prominence without major infrastructure developments until mid-century oil explorations. By the 1920s, under Sultan Taimur bin Faisal, Sohar remained tied to and limited maritime exchange, emblematic of Oman's pre-modern stasis.

Modern Era and Industrial Transformation (1970–Present)

Following Sultan Qaboos bin Said's accession to the throne on 23 July 1970, Oman initiated widespread modernization efforts known as the Omani Renaissance, which gradually extended to regional centers like Sohar, though the city initially remained underdeveloped compared to coastal hubs such as . By the early , the government invested $200 million in a and refining facility at Sohar to diversify beyond oil revenues, marking one of the area's first major industrial projects. Industrial momentum accelerated in the with the inauguration of the Suhar Industrial Area in 1992, spanning 28.4 million square meters and focusing on light manufacturing and processing industries. A pivotal development occurred in 2002 when the Omani government signed a concession agreement with Sohar Industrial Port Company SAOC on 23 July to construct and operate a deep-water port, with the first vessel berthing in 2004 and transforming Sohar into a gateway. The adjacent Sohar Freezone was formalized by Royal Decree 123/2010, covering 4,500 hectares and attracting foreign investment through tax incentives and streamlined regulations. The establishment of Sohar Aluminium in September 2004 represented Oman's inaugural greenfield aluminum smelter, a between the government and , with construction commencing shortly thereafter. The facility, featuring a single AP35 potline and associated power plant, produced its first hot metal in June 2008 and was officially inaugurated on 29 April 2009, achieving an annual capacity of 390,000 metric tons of primary aluminum. By 2015, the smelter set production records, underscoring its role in non-hydrocarbon industrialization, though operations faced challenges from global metal prices and energy costs. These initiatives propelled Sohar's evolution from a provincial into Oman's industrial hub by the , with the port handling over 40 million tons of cargo annually and the freezone hosting diverse sectors including , metals, and . Labor unrest during the 2011 Arab Spring protests, led by industrial workers demanding wage increases and job localization, highlighted socio-economic strains amid rapid growth, prompting government responses including subsidies and hiring quotas. Under Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, who succeeded in January 2020, diversification continued via Oman Vision 2040, emphasizing sustainable industries in Sohar to reduce oil dependency.

Geography

Location and Administrative Status

Sohar lies on 's northern coast along the , roughly 230 kilometers northwest of , the national capital. Its geographical coordinates are approximately 24°21′N 56°43′E. As the capital and largest city of , Sohar functions as the administrative center for this first-level division within Oman's structure of 11 . The governorate encompasses six wilayats—Sohar, Shinas, Liwa, Saham, Al-Khaboura, and Al Suwayq—with Sohar itself designated as a wilayat. This setup positions Sohar as a key hub for regional governance and economic activities in northern .

Topography and Natural Features

Sohar lies on the Al Bāṭinah coastal plain, a low-lying alluvial strip along the , characterized by flat terrain with elevations typically ranging from to about 50 meters. This plain, formed by sediment deposits from wadis descending from the adjacent mountains, extends northward toward the border and supports agriculture and urban development due to its fertile soils and access to . The immediate hinterland features a mix of coastal plains, alluvial fans, terraces, and low-relief hills transitioning to moderate mountains with elevations of 350 to 500 meters, shaped by geological processes including faulting and in the broader Sohar Basin. Further inland, the rises more sharply into the Western , which form a rugged barrier with peaks exceeding 2,000 meters, influencing local drainage patterns and creating seasonal wadis that feed into the coastal zone. Natural coastal features include an approximately 18-kilometer sandy shoreline with gentle slopes and minimal relief, prone to from wave action and tidal influences in the . These elements contribute to Sohar's strategic location, though the flat morphology limits natural harbors, necessitating artificial developments for maritime .

Climate and Environment

Climatic Conditions

Sohar has a hot desert climate classified as BWh under the Köppen-Geiger system, featuring extreme summer , mild winters, and minimal influenced by its coastal position on the . Average annual rainfall totals approximately 109 mm, concentrated in sporadic winter events, with a prolonged from to where monthly often falls below 1 mm. High summer , averaging 60-80% during peak , exacerbates discomfort through oppressive conditions, while winds typically range from 6-8 km/h, occasionally stronger in transitional seasons. Temperature extremes define the region's variability: summer highs frequently exceed 40°C, with and means around 36°C, while winter lows rarely drop below 10°C. The following table summarizes monthly averages from 1986-2009 data recorded by Omani meteorological stations:
MonthMean High (°C)Mean Low (°C)Rainfall (mm)Rainy Days
Jan24.214.016.92.4
Feb25.315.026.63.0
Mar27.517.324.12.5
Apr31.920.86.11.3
May36.324.90.70.2
Jun36.927.90.70.2
Jul36.229.62.30.2
Aug34.728.60.30.1
Sep34.125.90.10.0
Oct33.021.85.90.3
Nov29.518.54.80.5
Dec26.115.920.60.7
Cloud cover remains low year-round, peaking at around 50% in due to occasional influences from the , though these rarely produce significant rain in Sohar. Historical records indicate rare extremes, such as temperatures surpassing 45°C in summer heatwaves, underscoring the and typical of the Batinah coastal plain.

Environmental Challenges and Initiatives

Sohar's rapid industrialization, centered around the , has generated significant , with emissions from heavy industries such as production and contributing to elevated levels of particulate matter, , and nitrogen oxides. A 2024 study found that residents near the Sohar Industrial Port (SIP) experienced higher severity correlated with proximity to sources, including PM2.5 concentrations often exceeding moderate levels (e.g., AQI around 102 in monitored periods). Health surveys from also reported increased respiratory and cardiovascular issues among communities adjacent to the industrial area, attributing these to chronic exposure from stack emissions and traffic. Atmospheric modeling further indicates that local patterns exacerbate dispersion, leading to degraded air quality in urban zones. Coastal erosion poses another acute challenge, with the Sohar region's shoreline retreating at rates up to several meters annually due to natural dynamics compounded by and urban expansion. A 2020 assessment using and hydrodynamic models quantified erosion hotspots, threatening residential properties and fisheries-dependent livelihoods. , inherent to Oman's arid , is intensified by industrial demands; historical and modern operations in Sohar have depleted , with per capita availability limited to around 416 m³/year regionally. Marine ecosystems face risks from treated discharges, prompting ongoing monitoring to assess heavy metal accumulation in sediments near the . To counter these issues, established the Sohar Net Zero Alliance in alignment with Oman's Net Zero 2050 strategy, uniting stakeholders for decarbonization through low-carbon technologies like and solar integration, with pilot projects launched by 2024. In April 2025, the port initiated Oman's first commercial carbon capture and utilization project, targeting CO₂ emissions from shipping and industrial processes to reduce the . Additional efforts include guidelines enforcing and zero-waste supply chains, alongside the "" initiative started in January 2025 to promote sustainable and models in the freezone. These measures earned SOHAR an Environmental Protection Award in November 2024 for advancements in emission controls and preservation.

Economy

Economic Overview and Diversification Efforts

Sohar's economy has evolved from traditional sectors like fisheries and agriculture into a major industrial and hub, anchored by the established in 2002. The port handled approximately 34 million metric tonnes of cargo in the first half of 2025, reflecting robust growth in bulk and container throughput driven by investments in and integration. This activity contributes over 2.1% to Oman's national GDP and supports around 36,000 direct and indirect jobs, positioning Sohar as a key driver of non-oil economic output in the northern region. Diversification efforts in Sohar align with Oman Vision 2040, which seeks to reduce dependency—currently accounting for 25-35% of GDP—through industrial clustering in metals, , , and . The SOHAR Freezone has attracted over OMR 11.5 billion (USD 30 billion) in as of late 2024, with an additional USD 1.3 billion in new projects announced in the first half of 2025, emphasizing sustainable practices and local content procurement to foster resilience against oil price volatility. These initiatives prioritize value-added and export-oriented industries, enhancing Oman's global connectivity while mitigating environmental risks through expansions. Challenges persist, including the need for skilled labor and to sustain growth amid regional competition, but Sohar's cluster-based model has demonstrably boosted non-oil exports and participation, aligning with national goals for a knowledge-driven .

SOHAR Port and Freezone

is a major deep-water port and integrated industrial freezone located in Sohar, , strategically positioned midway between and near the , facilitating access to the and global trade routes. The port commenced operations with its first vessel berthing in 2004, while the adjacent freezone was formally established in 2010 under Royal Decree No. 123/2010, spanning approximately 4,500 hectares to attract in , , and sectors. The facility has undergone phased expansions to enhance capacity, including multipurpose terminals for containers, dry bulk, and liquids, with current infrastructure supporting over 3,000 annual vessel calls as recorded in 2024. In the first half of 2025, SOHAR handled 34 million metric tonnes of cargo, reflecting investments in berth deepening and equipment upgrades to accommodate larger vessels. Container throughput reached nearly 900,000 TEUs in 2024, marking a 15% year-on-year increase, alongside a 77% surge in breakbulk volumes driven by demand in metals and minerals. Cumulative investments in the and freezone exceeded OMR 11.5 billion (approximately USD 30 billion) by 2024, drawing participants from 52 countries and focusing on downstream industries such as aluminum smelting, production, and . Recent developments include a 670-hectare freezone expansion announced in 2025, securing over USD 1.3 billion in new projects for high-value sectors like LNG and . This growth has generated around 36,000 direct and indirect jobs, contributing more than 2.1% to Oman's GDP through export-oriented activities and integration. The freezone offers incentives including 30-year tax holidays, 100% , and streamlined customs procedures to promote economic diversification away from oil dependency, aligning with Oman's broader Vision 2040 strategy. Operations emphasize sustainability, with initiatives for production and reduced emissions in port handling, though challenges persist in competing with established hubs like amid regional geopolitical tensions.

Industrial and Manufacturing Sectors

Sohar's industrial and sectors form a of Oman's economic diversification , leveraging the SOHAR Port and Freezone's integrated to host heavy industries such as metals, , and . The Sohar Industrial City, managed by Madayn, encompasses facilities for aluminum , production, complexes, and supporting industries like chemicals and minerals processing. These sectors benefit from proximity to raw materials, energy supplies, and export , contributing to national output growth of 7.45% in 2024 to over RO 3.6 billion. The metals cluster dominates, with Sohar Aluminium operating a smelter with an annual capacity of 395,000 metric tonnes of high-purity , utilizing onsite power generation and exporting via dedicated port facilities. Steel manufacturing is led by Jindal Steel Sohar, the largest private producer in the GCC, focusing on and production to support local construction and export markets. Additional metal processing includes titanium slag production by Sohar Titanium through carbothermal reduction of for pigment and sponge applications. Petrochemical and chemical have expanded rapidly, highlighted by the December 2024 start of on a $300 million plant in SOHAR Freezone, designed to become the world's second-largest facility for production. The area also hosts chemical firms like MAK Sohar, specializing in high-performance solutions for global industries, alongside broader complexes processing feedstocks into derivatives. Emerging sectors include pharmaceuticals, with DMC producing antibiotic active pharmaceutical ingredients, and plastics by entities like Al Shumookh Plastic Products. Recent investments underscore growth, with Suhar localizing six projects in 2025 valued at over RO 27 million across 162,000 square meters in oil derivatives, , , , , and wood industries. Overall, the city attracted key projects in the first half of 2025, enhancing local value addition and employment in manufacturing clusters. These developments align with 's focus on sustainable practices, including solar module production initiatives to bolster renewable supply chains.

Traditional Sectors: Fisheries and Agriculture

Sohar's fisheries sector remains rooted in traditional artisanal practices, despite the growth of industrial activities at SOHAR . Local fishermen primarily employ small-scale vessels, including traditional wooden dhows launched from beaches using planks, targeting demersal and pelagic species in the . In Sohar specifically, surveys indicate that dozens of fishermen rely on such methods, with or group catches ranging from negligible to 100 tons per season, underscoring the variability of traditional operations. The North Al Batinah Governorate, encompassing Sohar, supports approximately 28% of Oman's artisanal fishers and 26% of small-scale boats, contributing to regional output that reached 58,307 tons by October 2022, reflecting a 2.7% increase from prior periods. Initiatives like artificial reefs deployed near Sohar have enhanced local productivity by attracting and supporting sustainable yields for coastal communities. Agriculture in Sohar and the surrounding Al Batinah plain is limited by aridity and saline soils but sustains traditional farming through pumping and ancient aflaj () irrigation systems, which channel water from mountains to oases. The region hosts over 53% of Oman's cropped agricultural area, focused on subsistence and semi-commercial production of dates, , and . Date palms predominate as the primary traditional , mirroring national patterns where they occupy 50% of cultivated land and account for 80% of fruit production, with Sohar's coastal wadis enabling small-scale groves despite . In 2004, Al Batinah's harvested area spanned 33,050 hectares out of Oman's national total of 63,606 hectares, highlighting its before broader diversification efforts. These sectors, while overshadowed by Sohar's modern , continue to provide livelihoods and cultural continuity for local communities, with fisheries emphasizing seasonal, labor-intensive harvesting and relying on resilient, drought-tolerant varieties.

Infrastructure

Transportation Networks

Sohar's transportation networks are anchored by SOHAR Port, a major deep-water facility that integrates with regional road and emerging rail systems to facilitate industrial and trade logistics. The port handles , containers, and general freight, supporting 's diversification goals under the Oman Logistics Strategy 2040, which emphasizes multimodal connectivity across seaports, roads, and airports. Road infrastructure centers on the Batinah Expressway (Highway 1), a coastal highway spanning approximately 200 kilometers that links Sohar to in the east and extends toward the UAE border in the west, enabling efficient trucking for first- and last-mile freight from SOHAR Port to industrial zones and beyond. This expressway, upgraded for heavy vehicle loads, handles over 20,000 vehicles daily in peak industrial periods and forms part of Oman's network exceeding 50,000 kilometers, with ongoing expansions to reduce congestion and enhance safety. Local roads within Sohar connect the port's terminals to the SOHAR Freezone and residential areas, though urban remains limited to informal taxis and buses operated by the Oman National Transport Company. Rail developments are advancing rapidly, with the Hafeet Rail project establishing a 238-kilometer freight line from SOHAR Port to in the UAE, designed for 3 million tonnes of annual capacity and speeds up to 120 km/h. Construction accelerated in 2025, with the first rail tracks arriving at SOHAR Port in and the project nearing completion by , following a bilateral agreement signed on for operational launch of daily services to promote sustainable cross-border . Domestically, Oman's National Railway Phase 1 proposes a 242-kilometer line from Sohar to with intermediate stations, aimed at commuter and freight integration, though full implementation remains in planning as of 2025. Sohar International Airport (OOSH), operational since 2014 for domestic flights and 2017 for limited international services, primarily supports the adjacent industrial region with cargo capabilities but sees minimal passenger traffic, recording only 336 arrivals and departures by May —a 98.8% decline from prior years—due to competition from and hubs. The facility features a 3,000-meter suitable for mid-sized aircraft and ongoing terminal expansions, yet its role is niche, focusing on rather than or mass transit.

Education and Healthcare Facilities

Sohar University, established in 2001 as Oman's first , serves as the primary higher education institution in the city, offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs across colleges including , , , and Sciences. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities for research, professional training, and industry partnerships, with enrollment supporting Oman's goals. It ranks in the 951-1000 band globally per QS assessments, emphasizing applied learning tied to local industrial needs. Secondary education includes international options such as Al Batinah International School, the sole IB-authorized school in Sohar, delivering primary, middle years, diploma, and career-related programs. Sohar International School provides British curriculum-based education with dedicated laboratories, computer labs, and campus-wide for K-12 students. Vocational training is available through the International Maritime College Oman, which specializes in maritime, , and qualifications aligned with regional operations. Public schooling follows Oman's national framework of free, from ages 6 to 15, with multiple government schools in Sohar addressing primary and secondary levels, though specific enrollment data remains aggregated at the level. Healthcare in Sohar encompasses government and private providers, with Sohar Hospital—a Ministry of Health facility with 408 beds—delivering comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services, including orthopedics, , , and intensive care units, alongside medical training programs. It handles specialties such as dialysis, , and tumor care, serving the North Batinah region. Private sector options include Aster Al Raffah Hospital, a multispecialty center excelling in , , , and minimally invasive . Lifeline Hospital Sohar functions as a 50-bed tertiary facility with ICU, surgical ICU, neonatal care, and orthopedics, emphasizing mother-child clinics and isolation units. Badr Al Samaa Hospital focuses on , , and cost-effective treatments like screening. Saada Hospital, with 50 inpatient and 30 outpatient rooms, provides multispecialty care for families across routine and advanced needs. Supporting infrastructure includes extended health centers offering , , orthopedics, and , integrated into the North Batinah network for primary and preventive services.

Urban Landmarks and Public Spaces

Sohar Fort stands as the city's most prominent historical landmark, originally constructed in the late 13th to early as a defensive structure with later modifications following their capture in 1507. The fort, one of Oman's largest, features a distinctive square-towered design and houses a in its main tower displaying artifacts related to local history and the . Restored and opened to the public, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding urban landscape and the , serving both as a cultural repository and a vantage point overlooking key public areas. The Sohar Corniche functions as a vital public waterfront space, featuring a promenade along sandy beaches that connects to major sites including the fort and . This seafront route supports recreational activities such as walking and family outings, with pathways enhanced for pedestrian access and scenic coastal views. Adjacent public parks, like Silver Jubilee Park located near the fort, provide green spaces equipped for leisure, picnics, and community gatherings, attracting families with its natural landscaping and proximity to historical sites. Traditional markets contribute to Sohar's public commercial spaces, with the Sohar Handicrafts Souq, established in 1999, dedicated to preserving Omani artisanal traditions through sales of textiles, jewelry, and leather goods. The renovated Sohar Souq Historical area now hosts galleries and shops for souvenirs, blending heritage architecture with modern retail while maintaining its role as a communal trading hub. These souqs facilitate social interaction and economic activity in the urban core, reflecting Sohar's enduring maritime trade legacy.

Demographics and Society

The population of Sohar wilayat stood at 140,006 according to Oman's 2010 census, reflecting its status as a growing urban center in Al Batinah North Governorate. By the 2020 census, this figure had risen to 219,264, indicating an average annual growth rate of 5.4% over the decade, driven primarily by economic expansion and influx of expatriate workers. Expatriates have played a dominant role in this demographic shift, with their numbers in Sohar reaching 138,861 in 2023, up from 125,000 the prior year, as foreign labor supports industrial and port-related activities. Omani nationals constitute a smaller but stable portion, with projections from the suggesting continued overall increases tied to infrastructure development. in the wilayat averaged 116 persons per square kilometer in 2021, concentrated around urban and industrial zones. This rapid urbanization aligns with Sohar's transformation into an industrial hub, where the have spurred job creation in , , and , attracting migrant workers from and beyond since the early 2000s. Historical trends show dramatic acceleration post-2000, with roughly doubling between 2000 and 2015 amid port inception and . NCSI data underscores that such growth outpaces national averages, positioning Sohar for further expansion toward 2040 as diversifies beyond oil.

Ethnic Composition and Cultural Dynamics

Sohar's ethnic composition reflects Oman's broader demographic profile, dominated by Omani nationals of Arab descent, alongside substantial non-Arab Omani subgroups and a growing expatriate population driven by industrialization. Among nationals, Arabs form the largest group at 50-66%, followed by Baluchis (25-33%) and ‘Ajam of southern Iranian origin (10-15%), with smaller communities of Indian descent such as Banyans and Lawātiyya numbering in the low hundreds. Religiously, the national population is predominantly Sunni Muslim, with Ibadhi Muslims comprising 15-20% and Shi‘a Muslims 10-15%, concentrated among ‘Ajam communities. Expatriates, primarily low-skilled laborers from , have significantly altered the demographic balance, rising from 19.4% of Sohar's in 2003 (20,421 individuals) to 33.9% in 2010 (47,416 individuals), and exceeding 50% by the early with over 113,000 non-Omanis reported in the Sohar wilaya amid a total of approximately 219,000 in 2020. Indians, , and constitute about 86% of Oman's foreign workforce, a composition replicated in Sohar due to demand in , , and operations. Culturally, Sohar maintains a framework of pluralism shaped by tribal, ethno-linguistic, and religious identities among nationals, yet the rapid shift from a semi-rural to an industrial hub since the late has strained social cohesion, fostering economic grievances that manifested in 2011 protests focused on rather than sectarian divides. Omanization policies, mandating higher Omani employment quotas in private sectors, seek to reinforce national cultural dominance and mitigate influence, though expatriates remain segregated in labor camps with limited integration into Omani social structures. This dynamic underscores a tension between and preservation of Omani-Arab-Islamic heritage, with among nationals reaching 20-25% in the early , exacerbating calls for equitable resource distribution.

Social and Labor Issues

Sohar, as a hub for industrial and port activities, relies heavily on expatriate labor, particularly from , comprising a significant portion of the workforce in , , and sectors within the . Migrant workers in these areas face vulnerabilities under Oman's sponsorship (, including passport confiscation by employers, wage withholding, and inadequate compensation relative to living costs and health risks. A 2024 human rights identified low-wage migrants near Sohar Port as particularly at risk of insufficient benefits to offset occupational hazards, such as exposure to industrial pollutants without adequate protective measures or medical support. Omani nationals in Sohar have protested high , exacerbated by preferences for labor in private sector jobs offering lower wages. On May 23, 2021, residents demonstrated outside the local labor ministry against job scarcity, marking one of the early public challenges under Sultan Haitham bin Tariq. These actions reflect broader demands for Omanization policies to prioritize citizen , though has been uneven amid economic pressures from dependency and post-COVID recovery. Labor trafficking risks persist for migrants recruited for Sohar-based projects, with reports of deceptive contracts leading to forced and from recruitment fees. Enforcement remains limited, as Oman's 2008 anti-trafficking prescribes penalties but investigations are infrequent, particularly for non-domestic sectors; the U.S. State Department noted ongoing vulnerabilities in low-skilled roles despite some convictions. Recent reforms, including a 2023 labor enhancing overtime pay and rest periods, and a 2024 social security expansion, aim to address gaps, but protections for migrants lag, with weak mechanisms for contract disputes or workplace inspections in freezones. and similar organizations document persistent abuses, attributing them to systemic sponsor control, though Omani authorities assert compliance through periodic audits.

References

  1. https://www.fm.gov.om/about-oman/state/oman-by-region/
  2. https://isac.uchicago.edu/sites/default/files/uploads/shared/docs/Publications/Annual-Reports/2023-2024/AR2023-24_Suhar.pdf
  3. https://www.spf.gov.om/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/OmanVision2040Report.pdf
  4. https://mohup.gov.om/en/projects/zp302sh2p015kaq687rakgxh?type=project
  5. https://www.academia.edu/118114849/Priestman_Kennet_MacDonald_al_Jahwari_et_al_2024_Sohar_Project_The_Archaeology_of_an_Indian_Ocean_Port_in_Arabia
  6. https://www.academia.edu/89971487/Priestman_2022_Occupation_of_the_Sohar_Hinterland_during_the_Late_Pre_Islamic_and_Early_Islamic_Periods_The_Archaeological_Evidence
  7. https://archive.aramcoworld.com/issue/198303/oman-a.history.htm
  8. https://archaeopresspublishing.com/ojs/index.php/PSAS/article/view/1561
  9. https://www.degruyterbrill.com/document/doi/10.1515/9781802701517-007/html
  10. https://archive.aramcoworld.com/issue/199101/fortified.oman.htm
  11. https://www.colonialvoyage.com/category/asia/oman/
  12. https://www.colonialvoyage.com/portuguese-fort-soar/
  13. http://www.worldheritageofportugueseorigin.com/2015/07/17/portuguese-in-east-africa/
  14. https://rakheritage.rak.ae/chapters/european-interest-in-ras-al-khaimah/
  15. https://scroll.in/article/1048855/a-new-book-offers-detailed-historical-accounts-of-the-sultans-of-oman-in-the-19th-century
  16. https://www.omaninfo.om/en/pages/161/show/572
  17. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/301351148_Omani-Indian_Economic_Ties_During_19th_and_20th_century
  18. https://oxfordbusinessgroup.com/videos/omans-50th-renaissance-day-looking-back-on-5-decades-of-economic-and-social-development-in-the-sultanate-market-profile
  19. http://www.omansultanate.com/economy.htm
  20. https://www.madayn.om/EN/Pages/Sohar.aspx
  21. https://soharportandfreezone.om/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/SOHAR-Port-Information-Guide.pdf
  22. https://decree.om/2010/rd20100123/
  23. https://www.sohar-aluminium.com/About-us
  24. https://www.bechtel.com/press-releases/sohar-aluminum-smelter-project-makes-first-hot-metal/
  25. https://www.ap-technology.com/2019/07/22/10-year-of-sohar-aluminium/
  26. https://aluminiumtoday.com/news/sohar-aluminium-achieves-new-production-record
  27. https://www.ipcsa.international/about/members/members-west-asia/sohar-port-and-freezone/
  28. https://www.arab-reform.net/publication/oman-ten-years-after-the-arab-spring-the-evolution-of-state-society-relations/
  29. https://www.oman2040.om/history?lang=en
  30. https://www.suharairport.co.om/content/tourism-guide-clone
  31. https://database.earth/countries/oman/regions/al-batinah-north/cities/sohar
  32. https://www.opendata.gov.om/publishers/6ec4c074-13d5-45c3-8c3e-6fd8fe7ee138
  33. https://guide.opensooq.com/en/oman-en/oman-governorates-a-comprehensive-guide-to-provinces-and-administrative-centers/
  34. https://openjicareport.jica.go.jp/pdf/11673944_02.pdf
  35. https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Location-map-of-Sohar-study-area-along-with-the-Gulf-of-Oman-coast-The-maps-were_fig3_339447195
  36. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-61033-y
  37. https://worldweather.wmo.int/en/city.html?cityId=1418
  38. https://weatherspark.com/y/105541/Average-Weather-in-Sohar-Oman-Year-Round
  39. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11121288/
  40. https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-015-1866-3
  41. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/260210861_Contribution_of_atmospheric_processes_to_the_degradation_of_air_quality_case_study_Sohar_Industrial_Area_Oman
  42. https://www.global.toshiba/ww/products-solutions/social/water-environmental/project/industrial-wastewater-treatment-in-oman.html
  43. https://ea.gov.om/en/knowledge-center/projects-initiatives/the-study-of-the-marine-environment-state-in-sohar-and-the-provision-of-monitoring-devices/
  44. https://sustainableworldports.org/project/sohar-port-and-freezone-sohar-net-zero-alliance/
  45. https://www.omanobserver.om/article/1169274/business/sohar-port-launches-first-carbon-capture-project-in-major-sustainability-push
  46. https://soharportandfreezone.om/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Waste-Managment-Guidelines.pdf
  47. https://omansustainabilityweek.com/newfront/news/5941
  48. https://timesofoman.com/article/151894-sohar-port-and-freezone-wins-environmental-protection-award-at-the-maritime-standard-awards-2024
  49. https://omannews.gov.om/topics/en/80/show/124351/
  50. https://www.omanobserver.om/article/1176478/business/economy/34m-metric-tonnes-handled-through-sohar-port-and-freezone
  51. https://www.maritimegateway.com/omans-sohar-port-and-freezone-attracts-record-foreign-investments/
  52. https://www.seco.admin.ch/dam/seco/it/dokumente/Aussenwirtschaft/Wirtschaftsbeziehungen/L%25C3%25A4nderinformationen/Mittlerer%2520Osten%2520und%2520Afrika/wirtschaftsbericht_oman.pdf.download.pdf/Wirtschaftsbericht%2520Oman%25202025.pdf
  53. https://www.fm.gov.om/sohar-port-attracts-more-than-omr-1-5-billion-of-investment/
  54. https://www.logisticsmiddleeast.com/news/sohar-port-and-freezone-drives-1-3bn-investment-surge-in-first-half-of-2025
  55. https://www.logisticsmiddleeast.com/news/sohar-port-oman
  56. https://blogs.worldbank.org/en/arabvoices/oman-vision-2040-a-blueprint-for-sustainable-growth-and-global-integration
  57. https://oxfordbusinessgroup.com/reports/oman/2025-report/country-profile/steady-ascent-the-sultanate-is-advancing-its-economic-growth-by-focusing-on-diversification-infrastructure-and-sustainable-development-overview/
  58. https://opaz.gov.om/en/zones/sohar-free-zone
  59. https://www.asyad.om/what-we-do/ports-free-zones-thank-you/sohar-freezone
  60. https://omanet.om/en/news/business/34m-tonnes-processed-at-sohar/
  61. https://omanet.om/en/news/economy/oman-ports-resilience-global-shipping/
  62. https://www.cbnme.com/top-ports-in-the-middle-east/sohar-port-oman/
  63. https://omanet.om/en/news/economy/oman-manufacturing-growth-value/
  64. https://www.sohar-aluminium.com/Facilities
  65. https://www.midrex.com/company-news/jindal-steel-sohar-driving-omans-economic-diversification/
  66. https://sohartitanium.om/product-process/
  67. https://www.echemi.com/cms/2160916.html
  68. https://mak-sohar.com/
  69. https://www.dmoman.com/company-profile/
  70. https://www.aihitdata.com/search/companies?l=sohar%2Bindustrial
  71. https://omannews.gov.om/topics/en/80/show/124006
  72. https://www.tradearabia.com/News/328584/Oman%27s-Suhar-Industrial-City-attracts-20-key-projects-in-H1-2025
  73. https://www.renewable-energy-industry.com/news/world/article-6936-oman-launches-domestic-industrial-production-of-solar-cells-and-modules
  74. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPb_r61SZJM
  75. https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Fish-Species-abundant-in-Arab-waters-Sohar-Al-Batinah-Region_tbl1_342197257
  76. https://omannews.gov.om/topics/en/80/show/111327
  77. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2468550X22001423
  78. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0964569124001868
  79. https://www.cabidigitallibrary.org/doi/pdf/10.5555/20113188086
  80. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/273888466_Date_Palm_Status_and_Perspective_in_Oman
  81. https://www.fao.org/4/i0936e/i0936e09.pdf
  82. https://www.thefamilytravelblog.com/exploring-the-sohar-fort-museum-and-fish-market.html
  83. https://mtcit.gov.om/sectors/oman-logistics-center/logistics
  84. https://araburban.org/en/infohub/projects/?id=9412
  85. https://www.clarionshipping.com/en-om/blog/why-sohar-port-is-becoming-omans-gateway-for-regional-trade/
  86. https://www.clarionshipping.com/en-om/blog/multimodal-freight-integrating-omans-expanding-highway-port-2/
  87. https://www.hafeetrail.com/
  88. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/uae-oman-sign-agreement-for-first-cross-border-freight-rail-link-between-abu-dhabi-and-sohar/articleshow/124797564.cms
  89. https://www.porttechnology.org/news/hafeet-rail-receives-first-shipment-of-tracks-at-sohar/
  90. https://economymiddleeast.com/news/over-5-79-million-passengers-pass-through-omans-airports-by-may-2025-as-salalah-airport-sees-6-7-percent-growth/
  91. https://www.suharairport.co.om/content/flight-information
  92. https://www.topuniversities.com/universities/sohar-university
  93. https://www.timeshighereducation.com/world-university-rankings/sohar-university
  94. https://abisoman.com/
  95. https://www.abq.edu.om/sohar-international-school/an-abq-education/facilities/
  96. https://nu.edu.om/maritime/about-us/
  97. https://borgenproject.org/education-in-oman-leading/
  98. https://moh.gov.om/en/hospitals-directorates/hospitals/sohar-hospital/
  99. https://www.aster.om/hospitals-clinics/aster-al-raffah-hospital-sohar/
  100. https://www.lifelineoman.com/
  101. https://sohar.badralsamaahospitals.com/
  102. https://www.saadahospital.com/about-us
  103. https://moh.gov.om/en/hospitals-directorates/polyclinics/sohar-extended-health-center/
  104. https://moh.gov.om/en/hospitals-directorates/governorate-healthcare-facilities/north-batinah-governorate/
  105. https://www.memphistours.com/oman/oman-travel-guide/forts-in-oman/wiki/sohar-fort
  106. https://archiqoo.com/locations/sohar_fort.php
  107. https://timesofoman.com/article/106103-we-love-oman-sohar-fort-museum-tells-about-omans-glorious-past
  108. https://www.makemytrip.com/tripideas/attractions/sohar-fort
  109. https://www.holidify.com/places/sohar/sohar-corniche-sightseeing-12177.html
  110. https://www.memphistours.com/oman/oman-travel-guide/beaches-in-oman/wiki/sohar-corniche
  111. https://guide.opensooq.com/en/oman-en/batinah/top-10-tourist-attractions-in-sohar-2024/
  112. https://www.memphistours.com/oman/oman-travel-guide/souqs-in-oman/wiki/sohar-handicrafts-souq
  113. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298420-d25300522-Reviews-Sohar_Souq_Historical-Sohar_Al_Batinah_Governorate.html
  114. https://gulfmagazine.co/discover-the-rich-tapestry-of-omani-souqs/
  115. https://www.researchgate.net/figure/The-total-population-of-Sohar-and-Oman-1993-2014-Source-NCSI-National-Center-for_tbl2_318438147
  116. https://www.ceicdata.com/en/oman/population-by-governorate/population-expatriate-al-batinah-north-sohar
  117. https://data.gov.om/OMPOP2016/population?tsId=1254380
  118. https://data.gov.om/OMPOP2016/%25D8%25A7%25D9%2584%25D8%25B3%25D9%2583%25D8%25A7%25D9%2586?tsId=1392340&lang=en
  119. https://www.commercialinteriordesign.com/projects/oman-rising-sohars-2040-leap-to-global-trade-dominance
  120. https://www.city-facts.com/%25D8%25B5%25D8%25AD%25D8%25A7%25D8%25B1-%25D8%25B5%25D8%25AD%25D8%25A7%25D8%25B1/population
  121. https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Rapid-growth-of-population-in-the-coastal-governorates-of-Oman_tbl1_237632300
  122. https://journals.openedition.org/arabianhumanities/2828
  123. https://www.citypopulation.de/en/oman/muscat/%25E1%25B9%25A3u%25E1%25B8%25A5%25C4%2581r/060100000__sohar/
  124. https://gulfmigration.grc.net/media/pubs/exno/GLMM_EN_2018_07.pdf
  125. https://www.state.gov/reports/2022-country-reports-on-human-rights-practices/oman
  126. https://totalenergies.com/sites/g/files/nytnzq121/files/documents/totalenergies_human-rights-risk-assessment_2024_en_pdf.pdf
  127. https://mideastdc.org/publication/omans-new-sultan-sees-first-labor-protests/
  128. https://agsi.org/analysis/omans-protesters-seek-jobs-and-reform/
  129. https://www.state.gov/reports/2022-trafficking-in-persons-report/oman
  130. https://www.state.gov/reports/2024-trafficking-in-persons-report/oman
  131. https://www.amnesty.org/en/location/middle-east-and-north-africa/middle-east/oman/report-oman/
  132. https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/10/23/oman-new-social-security-law-step-right-direction
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.