O Bunkering and Marafi Services have merged to form an integrated national maritime powerhouse, a move showcased as a premier case study during Oman’s Logistics Day 2026. Supported by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT) and aligned with Oman Vision 2040, the merger aims to unify physical supply and port logistics, driving operational efficiency and in-country value. With a new strategic agreement to provide bunkering services at the Port of Duqm, the unified entity is set to strengthen the Sultanate’s position as a competitive global logistics and energy hub.
Muscat, Oman | May 1, 2026 – In a transformative move for the Arabian Peninsula’s energy and logistics sectors, O Bunkering and Marafi Services have officially announced a strategic merger. Timed to coincide with the Sultanate’s Logistics Day on April 30, the deal signals the birth of an integrated national powerhouse designed to catalyze the maritime supply chain and cement Oman’s status as a premier global hub.
Backed by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT), this consolidation is not merely a corporate union but a state-level initiative to align the bunkering sector with the ambitious targets of Oman Vision 2040.
A National Case Study in Institutional Integration
The significance of this merger was highlighted during National Logistics Day, where it was presented as the leading national case study for 2026. The partnership serves as a blueprint for institutional synergy, demonstrating how the Sultanate can move away from a fragmented logistics landscape toward a unified, efficient model.
By merging physical supply expertise with comprehensive port management, the new entity is positioned to:
- Unify Capabilities: Integrating two distinct service layers into a single, high-performance maritime vehicle.
- Drive Operational Excellence: Creating a streamlined entity capable of meeting the complex, high-volume requirements of global shipping lines.
- Sustainability & Reliability: Leveraging state support to ensure long-term stability and environmental compliance in the bunkering sector.
Expansion: Strategic Agreement with the Port of Duqm
Adding immediate commercial impact, the merged entity has signed a landmark agreement with the Port of Duqm Company SAOC to deliver comprehensive bunkering services.
Located outside the Strait of Hormuz, the Port of Duqm offers a strategic geographic advantage. The agreement enables the port to provide reliable, high-specification marine fuel solutions to VLCCs and mega container vessels, positioning it as a secure alternative to traditional regional refueling hubs.
A Unified Force in Marine Fuel & Logistics
The core of this merger lies in the “Unified Force” concept, combining O Bunkering’s fuel procurement and supply chain technicalities with Marafi’s vast port infrastructure and service logistics. This “one-stop-shop” approach aims to:
- Optimize Turnaround Times: By synchronizing fuel delivery with port logistics, vessels can significantly reduce idle time in Omani waters.
- Scale Supply Infrastructure: The unified entity will have the combined capital and assets to deploy more robust marine fuel solutions across the Sultanate’s entire port network.
- Global Benchmarking: Positioning Oman as a formidable rival to other major bunkering hubs by offering a degree of integration rarely seen in the regional market.
CEO Perspective: Advancing Toward Global Hub Status
Ali Al Shibani, Chief Executive Officer of O Bunkering, emphasized that the move is a clear signal of Oman’s evolving maritime strategy. He noted that the newly unified entity represents a “clear direction toward integration,” aimed at enhancing operational efficiency while supporting the long-term sustainability of the sector.
The company’s focus on national priorities was further evidenced by being awarded second place in the national Omanisation category this year, a point of significant pride for the leadership.
“We deeply value this recognition and remain committed to working closely with our partners to further strengthen Oman’s position as a competitive regional and global logistics hub,” Al Shibani stated, reaffirming the group’s commitment to empowering national talent as a core pillar of their growth.
Strategic Implications for the Market
For traders, shipowners, and energy analysts, the O Bunkering-Marafi merger shifts the competitive landscape of the Middle East.
- The “Duqm” Hedge: As geopolitical tensions fluctuate, Duqm’s location provides a “safety premium” for shipowners looking to bunker supply without the risks or higher insurance costs associated with entering the Persian Gulf.
- Infrastructure Synergy: Marafi’s expertise in port operations combined with O Bunkering’s supply chain knowledge suggests that future investments, such as advanced bunker barges or low-carbon fuel storage, will be executed with higher coordination.
- Market Pricing Power: Consolidation creates economies of scale that could lead to more competitive pricing structures for 0.50% VLSFO and 0.10% MGO across Salalah, Sohar, and Duqm.
- Sovereign Reliability: As an “integrated national company,” the entity provides a level of state-backed quality assurance and operational stability that is highly attractive to international institutional shipowners.
About O Bunkering
O Bunkering is a global provider of marine fuel and lubricant solutions, offering high-quality products, competitive pricing, and exceptional customer service. Our experienced team is dedicated to meeting the diverse needs of clients in the maritime industry, ensuring reliable supply and technical expertise across major global shipping routes.
Source: O Bunkering