Asyad Group: A Gateway to Global Logistics Solutions Bridging East and West

The Sultanate of Oman’s Asyad Group is a beacon of excellence in the realm of global integrated logistics services. Drawing strength from Oman’s enduring sociopolitical stability, its strategically advantageous location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, overseeing the world’s busiest trade route (Asia-Europe), and boasting state-of-the-art infrastructure, the Group offers a comprehensive suite of logistics solutions. These encompass three deep ports, two free zones, an economic zone, postal services, logistics, shipping, and a top-tier drydock.

Established in 2016, Asyad Group has been a trailblazer in creating an integrated world-class logistics ecosystem. This ecosystem is poised to navigate the challenges that afflict global supply chains with remarkable foresight and a forward-looking strategy. With a robust foundation of USD 26 billion in advanced infrastructure and an integrated logistics portfolio, Asyad Group has emerged as the fourth-largest logistics enterprise in the MENA region.

Asyad Group’s extensive portfolio spans the entire value chain, from high-level maritime and shipping services to last-mile doorstep delivery. The Group has achieved a compound annual growth rate of 24% in revenue and 89% in profit between 2016-2022.

Global Expansion

The growth strategy of Asyad Group combines domestic and global expansion through targeted acquisitions and partnerships with international industry leaders. In 2022, its free zones attracted over USD 1.5 billion in foreign direct investments, solidifying its role as a pivotal economic enabler.

Strategic Ownership

Asyad Group’s ownership by the Oman Investment Fund (OIA) provides a unique advantage. It enables close collaboration with local regulators, decision-makers, and executors such as the Customs Department to streamline clearance processes, thus reducing logistics and customs costs and time. The Group also invests heavily in technology, leveraging it across port operations, warehouses, and the cold chain to tackle challenges and prevent service interruptions. Advanced data analysis and cloud solutions further enhance efficiency and market projection capabilities.

Global Connectivity

Represented by its shipping arm, Asyad Line, the Group is dedicated to enhancing global connectivity between major international markets. Currently, the Group operates over 200 weekly lines from its ports of Sohar, Duqm, and Salalah, serving over 80 ports worldwide. Notably, the Port of Salalah ranks consistently as the second most efficient container port globally, according to the 2022 Container Ports Performance Index (CPPI) by the World Bank and S&P Global, and first across West, Central, and South Asia Region.

Free Zones and Economic Incentives

Salalah, Sohar, Duqm Free Zones, and Khazaen Economic City offer enticing incentives for investors, including 100% foreign ownership, 0% import and re-export duties, and 0% personal income tax for employees. Additionally, Asyad Group’s Drydock, now one of the largest in the MENA region, has become a highly profitable venture, posting a net profit of USD 32 million in 2022, owing to a commercial strategy targeting high-value projects.

E-commerce Expansion

Asyad’s expansion into e-commerce, led by its last-mile delivery arm, Asyad Express, has resulted in operations in six countries, facilitating the efficient movement of goods from global suppliers through Asyad’s ports to local distribution centers, and ultimately to customers’ doorsteps.

Innovation and Efficiency

Asyad’s commitment to innovation and adoption of the latest technologies and global best practices have revolutionized its performance. This transformation is evident in its ports, which ranked first globally in container handling speed in 2020 and saw a remarkable 92% increase in bulk volumes in 2022.

Sustainability and Green Initiatives

To fulfill its aspiration of becoming a responsible global citizen, and with a strong understanding of the pivotal role that energy consumption plays in logistics operations, Asyad has initiated impactful decarbonization measures, including the deployment of renewable energy sources, waste management systems, and CCS technologies. Such initiatives are in harmony with Oman’s aspirations for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future with clear targets for reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to renewable energy sources.

Leading the Hydrogen Industry

Asyad Group plays a pivotal role in realizing Oman’s ambitions in sustainability and green mobility. It aims to become the sixth-largest global exporter of hydrogen by 2030, the largest in the Middle East. Hosting major green hydrogen and ammonia international joint ventures, such as H2Oman and SalalaH2, with total production capacities of 1.1 million and 430,000 tons per annum respectively, Asyad leads the logistics groundwork for this nascent industry.

Future Outlook and Oman Vision 2040

The future of logistics in Oman is central to Oman Vision 2040, a vision that Asyad Group wholeheartedly embraces. Amid global geopolitical and energy challenges that intermittently disrupt international services, Oman shines as a vital global logistics hub on the world stage. With its advanced logistics infrastructure, strong government endorsement, and investment, limitless growth opportunities are poised to emerge, particularly in ports, transport, free zones, warehousing, and the cold chain.

Asyad Group’s remarkable journey and unwavering commitment to excellence have established it as a true global logistics leader. With its strategic prowess, forward-thinking strategies, and dedication to sustainability, it continues to pave the way for the future of logistics not just in Oman but on a global scale.