• Major Port Expansion: Oman’s Port Sultan Qaboos in Muscat is undergoing a significant redevelopment, including a new berth, following a record-breaking 2024-25 cruise season.
• Accommodating Mega-Ships: The expansion aims to enable the port to host the world’s largest cruise ships, such as Royal Caribbean’s Icon class and MSC’s World class vessels.
• Phased Redevelopment Plan: The project will be executed in three phases, beginning with rehabilitating current infrastructure and culminating in the construction of the new, larger berth.
• Strategic Growth for Tourism: This upgrade is part of Oman’s long-term strategy to transform the port into a national hub for cruise tourism, keeping pace with other major Gulf ports.

Oman is embarking on an exciting redevelopment of Port Sultan Qaboos in Muscat, a strategic move set to significantly enhance its position as a premier cruise destination. Following a record-breaking 2024-25 season that saw the port welcome 190 cruise calls, far exceeding expectations, the country is now looking to the future. The ambitious expansion plan includes the construction of a new, larger berth and supporting infrastructure designed to accommodate the next generation of mega-ships, including vessels as large as Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas and MSC’s World Europa.

This forward-thinking project builds on the port’s successful transformation from a cargo hub to a dedicated cruise tourism gateway. The expansion will be rolled out in phases, starting with the rehabilitation of existing facilities before moving on to new equipment and the construction of the new berth. This development is perfectly timed, as larger cruise ships are increasingly being deployed to the Arabian Gulf. By upgrading its infrastructure, Muscat is ensuring it can welcome these magnificent new vessels, which will be a wonderful draw for international visitors.

The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology has initiated a tender process for a consultancy firm, marking the official start of this multi-year project. The redevelopment of Port Sultan Qaboos will not only boost Oman’s cruise capacity but also elevate its status on regional itineraries, potentially positioning it as a key homeport or turnaround destination. This investment promises a bright future for Omani tourism, creating new opportunities and welcoming more travelers to experience the beauty of Muscat.