Muscat: The Ministry of Energy and Minerals today commemorated the centenary of the discovery of oil and gas in the Sultanate of Oman. The ceremony was held under the patronage of HH Sayyid Shihab bin Tarik Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for Defense Affairs, at the Royal Opera House Muscat.
According to Oman News Agency, the event highlighted the historical milestones of the energy sector since the signing of the first exploration concession in 1925. It reviewed the major transformations that have contributed to building the national economy and establishing an integrated infrastructure for the oil and gas industry, culminating in the Sultanate of Oman's future strategic directions in renewable energy and green hydrogen.
Eng. Salim Nasser Al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals, stated that the completion of a full century since the first practical step in oil exploration represents a defining historical milestone. The journey began with the signing of the first concession agreement with the D'Arcy Exploration Company on 18 May 1925, followed by the drilling of the "Dauka-1" well in 1955 and a significant transformational leap in the "Fahud" region. The sector now produces nearly one million barrels per day, reflecting accumulated expertise and development.
Al Aufi emphasized Oman's political stability, which has attracted international partnerships, such as the Duqm Refinery and Petrochemical Industries project with an investment exceeding RO 3.5 billion. The evolution of concession area management now includes 58 areas and current oil reserves are estimated at 4.8 billion barrels.
Regarding In-Country Value (ICV), the sector's expenditure over the past decade reached RO 11 billion, with RO 700 million directed to SMEs last year. The 'Majd' ICV program awarded its first accreditation certificate to Abraj Energy Services in 2024.
The human element is a crucial asset, with nearly 20,000 employees in operating companies achieving an Omanization rate of 93 percent. The sector recorded 285.5 million working hours without a Lost Time Injury in 2024, highlighting its safety culture.
Al Aufi noted the sector's social responsibility, with nearly RO 50 million invested in community projects over the past five years. Marking the oil and gas centenary is a tribute to a national journey and Oman's commitment to further developing the sector.
A commemorative postage stamp was unveiled, marking the 100th anniversary of Oman's oil and gas journey. This stamp serves as a documentary symbol of historical significance, encapsulating a century of transformation and achievement.
The oil and gas sector has played a pivotal role in the national economy, enabling the expansion of investments and development of infrastructure. It supports broader sectors linked to economic prosperity, including transport, industry, and trade. The sector's contributions strengthen the state's capacity to implement strategic development programs.
In sustainable development, the sector has reinforced its socio-economic presence through corporate social responsibility initiatives and support for community projects. It serves as a key enabler for education and innovation, enhancing the knowledge economy and national competitiveness.
The sector supports sustainability through clean energy solutions and environmentally focused projects. Notable initiatives include the "Miraah" solar steam project, the Nimr Water Treatment Plant, and various solar and wind projects. Operating companies contribute to sustainable energy initiatives, reflecting a strategic direction toward low-emission solutions.
An exhibition commemorating 100 years of oil and gas discovery was inaugurated. It offers documentary and visual content narrating the sector's evolution over a century. The exhibition features sections with models, portraits, historical documents, and infographics, showcasing significant periods and projects across a century of development.