Mahout Silica Sands Project begins 100,000-ton annual production, boosting Oman’s industrial capacity, reducing imports, and promoting value-added growth.
Oman Minerals Development Company (OMDCO), in collaboration with the Geoscience Consulting Centre, has officially launched production at the Mahout Silica Sands Project, located within the F51 concession area of Al Wusta governorate. Spanning an estimated 5 square kilometers, the project boasts substantial proven reserves of approximately 47 million tons of high-quality silica sand, positioning it as a significant contributor to Oman's mineral resource sector.
In its initial phase, the Mahout project aims to produce around 100,000 tons of silica sand annually. The extracted sand is characterised by an impressive purity level exceeding 98%, making it suitable for supplying local and regional markets. By providing a domestic source of high-purity silica, the project is expected to reduce Oman’s dependence on imported raw materials, supporting the country’s strategic goal of enhancing self-reliance in critical industrial inputs.
Looking ahead, OMDCO and its partners have outlined plans to implement primary processing facilities. These facilities will enable the conversion of raw silica into value-added products, catering to a range of industries such as semiconductors, glass manufacturing, chemicals, and metallurgy. This strategic approach aligns with Oman’s broader industrial vision, aiming to expand its manufacturing capabilities, foster technological innovation, and create sustainable economic value across the nation’s industrial sectors.
Engineer Matar bin Salem Al Badi, CEO of OMDCO, emphasized the project’s significance in bolstering the national economy. He noted that Mahout not only empowers local Omani businesses but also fosters sustainable growth within the private sector by providing new opportunities and encouraging industrial diversification. By establishing a reliable domestic supply of high-quality silica sand, the project enhances Oman’s ability to participate competitively in global supply chains, while simultaneously supporting local enterprise development.
Dr Mohammed bin Hilal Al Kindi, CEO of the Geoscience Consulting Centre, highlighted the project’s potential for driving industrial innovation and generating long-term economic benefits. He remarked that the collaboration between OMDCO and the consulting centre exemplifies how strategic partnerships can accelerate resource development and transform raw materials into high-value industrial commodities.
Overall, the Mahout Silica Sands Project underscores Oman’s commitment to leveraging its natural resources through sustainable development, strengthening the industrial sector, and advancing the nation’s value-added production capabilities. By tapping into its abundant silica reserves and fostering strategic collaborations, Oman continues to enhance its industrial resilience, support economic diversification, and create opportunities for domestic and regional markets alike. The project represents a key milestone in the country’s ongoing efforts to achieve long-term economic growth and technological advancement in the mineral and industrial sectors.
