Merger Creates Unified Marine Bunkering and Port Logistics Firm: Key Benefits for Oman’s Maritime Investors and Business Owners
MUSCAT: In a major development for Oman’s maritime and logistics industry, Omani companies O Bunkering and Marafi Services have completed their merger, forming a single national entity under the name O Bunkering. This strategic consolidation marks a significant transformation in the sector’s structure, enhancing operational efficiency and service integration.
The merger was officially finalised on Omani Logistics Day, April 30, 2026. It aims to strengthen competitiveness and create a national entity capable of competing on a global scale. This step addresses the evolving demands of maritime supply chains by unifying capabilities, improving efficiency, and broadening the range of services. The move is expected to support the sustainability of the maritime sector and bolster its contribution to Oman’s economy.
Eng Said bin Hamoud al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, highlighted that the merger exemplifies a qualitative advancement in the institutional maturity of Omani logistics companies. He emphasized that by combining assets, resources, capabilities, and expertise, the new company is positioned to become a large commercial entity with enhanced efficiency, superior service levels, and increased capacity—strengthening its competitive edge both locally and regionally.
Ali bin Amer Al Shaibani, CEO of O Bunkering, stated that the merger aligns with government goals and represents a decisive, well-planned response to sector needs. He explained that it aims to establish an integrated national system in the ship bunkering sector, boosting competitiveness and sustainability in this crucial segment of maritime logistics.
Suleiman bin Ali Al Hadrami, CEO of Marafi Services, described the merger as the start of a new phase of growth and expansion. The unified company will maintain high standards of efficiency and reliability, while promoting operational integration and enhancing maritime supply chain performance. This will be achieved through aligned capabilities, process standardization driven by data analytics, improved performance metrics, innovative sustainability solutions, and expanded services to meet demand within Oman and beyond.
Recent data indicates robust growth in the transport and logistics sector, with its contribution to GDP reaching approximately RO 2.23 billion in 2024 and rising to RO 2.35 billion in 2025—an increase of 5.4%. The sector’s GDP contribution is forecasted to hit RO 3 billion by 2026.
Investment in the transport and storage sector has surged as well, rising from RO 2.32 billion in 2024 to RO 3.4 billion in 2025, an increase of about 46.6%. Investments are projected to reach RO 3.57 billion by 2026.
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The merger of O Bunkering and Marafi Services signals a strategic consolidation aimed at boosting Oman’s maritime logistics competitiveness and operational efficiency on a global scale. For businesses, this means enhanced service integration and innovation opportunities, while investors should consider the sector’s strong growth trajectory and substantial rising investments as prime indicators for expansion and partnership prospects. Smart entrepreneurs must leverage this momentum by aligning with the advancing integrated maritime supply chain to capitalize on emerging efficiencies and sustainability-focused innovations.
