Oman-France Energy Agreements: What They Mean for Investments and Business Growth in Oman
MUSCAT: The National Energy Centre (NEC) has welcomed the signing of a series of economic and investment agreements between Oman and France during His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik’s official visit to France. The NEC highlighted that these agreements underscore the strength of the enduring bilateral relationship between the two nations and pave the way for enhanced cooperation in key strategic sectors, notably water and energy.
The NEC expressed pride in its role within the National Sustainable Water Alliance (NWA), a strategic consortium comprising the NEC, National Trading Company, SUEZ International, and Water Investment Company. This alliance has secured a 15-year contract to operate and maintain water and wastewater services in Oman for Nama Water Services. The partnership exemplifies a successful blend of national expertise and international experience aimed at advancing Oman’s water sector.
This initiative stands as one of the region’s largest water sector projects and marks SUEZ’s biggest operational contract in the Middle East. It encompasses water and wastewater services across the governorates of Muscat, Al Sharqiyah North, and Al Sharqiyah South, benefiting around 2.3 million residents.
Abdullah bin Rashid al Badi, Chairman of the NEC, described this partnership as a sophisticated model of cooperation between local institutions and international collaborators. He emphasized its reflection of Oman’s strong appeal for high-quality investments and strategic alliances. Al Badi noted that the project will facilitate knowledge transfer, nurture national talent, and implement global best practices in water utility management and operations, thereby promoting sustainable development in line with Oman’s national water sector priorities.
The project also aligns with Oman’s objectives to improve water network efficiency and reduce water losses from roughly 34% to 11% by 2040. This effort aims to bolster water security, enhance service quality, and support the goals of Oman Vision 2040 for a smart, sustainable water sector.
Al Badi further affirmed that the NEC’s involvement in the National Sustainable Water Alliance reflects the Centre’s vision of fostering impactful strategic partnerships, driving valuable investments, and enhancing local content. This contributes to sustainable economic growth and strengthens Oman’s position as a regional hub for strategic projects and international cooperation.
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The newly signed agreements between Oman and France, particularly the 15-year water services contract involving the National Energy Centre and SUEZ International, signal a transformative shift towards sustainable water management in Oman. For businesses, this creates opportunities to engage in cutting-edge water infrastructure projects and knowledge transfer initiatives, while smart investors should consider the growing emphasis on reducing water losses and enhancing efficiency as a strategic entry point aligned with Oman Vision 2040. This cooperation also mitigates risks related to resource scarcity and positions Oman as a regional hub for sustainable development and international partnerships.
