In a strategic move that reinforces Oman’s ambitions in the global bunkering and maritime logistics space, Asyad Ports and Free Zones has inked a major agreement with O Bunkering to deliver bunkering services at Port Sultan Qaboos (PSQ). The partnership marks a key step in turning Oman’s flagship port into a go-to fuel stop for international shipping transiting critical global trade lanes.
A New Fueling Powerhouse in the Making
With this agreement, O Bunkering—one of Oman’s most trusted marine fuel suppliers—secures a prominent operational foothold at one of the country’s most strategically positioned ports. Port Sultan Qaboos lies just south of the Strait of Hormuz, along the Sea of Oman, and sits squarely on the busiest east-west maritime routes. It’s a location with immense potential for bunkering operations, especially as ship operators increasingly seek alternative, secure, and efficient bunkering points outside the congested hubs of the Gulf. This development signals that Oman is not just in the race—it’s here to compete.
O Bunkering: Anchored in Quality, Committed to Growth
Launched in 2013 and headquartered in Muscat, O Bunkering (Ostool Bunkering) brings to the table a strong track record of reliable fuel delivery, logistics agility, and transparent operations. The company has already fueled thousands of vessels across the Middle East, and this latest partnership positions it to scale its services and influence even further.
“Our goal is simple: to be the most reliable and trusted bunker partner in the Middle East,” said Ali Amur Al Shibani, CEO of O Bunkering. “With this collaboration at Port Sultan Qaboos, we’re not only expanding our reach—we’re reinforcing Oman’s position on the global bunkering map.”
Backed by a team of skilled Omani professionals and international experts, O Bunkering is actively driving In-Country Value (ICV) and applying international environmental standards to every delivery. From HSE compliance to sustainable fuel practices, the company is aligning closely with modern industry expectations.
Port Sultan Qaboos: A Rising Star with Bunker Potential
Operated by Asyad Ports since 2018, Port Sultan Qaboos has long been known as Oman’s primary gateway for tourism and passenger traffic. But under Asyad’s modernization strategy, the port has diversified into a multi-purpose facility with a rising profile in cargo, naval operations, and now bunkering.
Its features include:
- State-of-the-art berthing infrastructure
- Dedicated liquid bulk handling (notably edible oil and bitumen)
- Support for navy vessels and dhows
- Robust cruise and anchorage traffic, showing consistent growth since 2018
For bunker suppliers and shipping companies alike, the message is clear: PSQ is open for fueling business.
Strategic Timing for the Region
As regional ports in the Gulf navigate capacity constraints and congestion, Oman’s ports—particularly PSQ and Sohar—are being increasingly viewed as viable alternatives for bunkering and turnaround operations. This new agreement gives O Bunkering an edge, and positions Oman as a fueling corridor for vessels bypassing traditional routes.
Importantly, the agreement also reflects Asyad Group’s long-term logistics vision to transform Oman into a global logistics leader by 2040. With O Bunkering onboard at PSQ, the country is one step closer to realizing that goal.
What This Development Means for the Bunkering Sector
The agreement between Asyad Ports and O Bunkering introduces a new option for bunkering services in the northwestern Indian Ocean region. Located just south of the Strait of Hormuz, Port Sultan Qaboos offers a strategically placed alternative for vessels operating along major East-West shipping routes.
This development may:
- Provide an additional reliable bunkering point for international shipping lines
- Help ease the load on traditionally busy bunkering hubs in the Gulf
- Contribute to a diversified service offering with modern infrastructure and operational support
- Align with broader industry trends toward sustainability, quality, and transparent service delivery
Bunkering Industry Perspective
The move reflects Oman’s growing focus on expanding its role in the regional bunkering and maritime logistics network. With infrastructure investments and strategic partnerships like this, the country is positioning itself as a competitive player in the regional marine fuel supply chain.
Source ASYAD Ports | O Bunkering