Minerals Development Oman (MDO) has signed a mining concession agreement with the Ministry of Energy and Minerals (MEM), allowing MDO to explore and develop strategic minerals in concession area 51F, located in the Al Wusta Governorate.

The area holds high-value deposits of silica, limestone, and dolomite, which are critical for industrial growth and economic diversification in Oman.

Silica is in increasing demand due to industries like glass manufacturing, renewable energy technologies, and energy storage.

The glass industry is the largest consumer of silica sand in the region, with projections estimating a compound annual rate growth of 6.7 per cent from 2022 to 2027.

MDO's new concession position positions the company as Oman's first silica sand miner, advancing its strategy to diversify its mineral portfolio and tap into new growth opportunities.

Silica sand, also known as industrial sand, is primarily composed of quartz and valued for its high silica content, strength, and non-reactive properties, essential to industries like glass, solar technology, and chemicals.

Preliminary studies indicate that the site holds significant reserves of silica ore, with purity levels reaching above 97 per cent naturally.

Nasser Al Maqbali, CEO of MDO, remarked: "This agreement underscores MDO’s commitment to harnessing the nation’s mineral wealth to create investment opportunities, generate employment, and drive sustainable industrial development. Our exploration of silica resources reflects Oman’s untapped potential to support critical industries, especially those related to the energy transition."

Al Maqbali emphasised: "With these projects, MDO is becoming a key player in the region’s mining industry and helping Oman achieve its goals of economic diversification and sustainable growth. By focusing on strategic minerals and building impactful partnerships, we are committed to boosting the mining sector’s role in the national economy."