Marafiq is a joint venture utilities company with shareholders from Oman’s leading energy company OQ Group and Gulf Energy, a prominent power and water utilities company. From an ambitious vision to the world economic gateway, utilities venture Marafiq has become the invisible engine that keeps Duqm’s transformation running cleanly, efficiently, and sustainably.
Oman, a region once powered by scattered diesel plants and water tankers, Marafiq has built an ecosystem designed for scale from day one. Its remit spans electricity, water, wastewater, steam, and industrial gases, all delivered through a unified network that treats utilities not as background services but as strategic enablers of growth.
In an exclusive interview with Global Business Outlook, Abdullah Saif Khalfan Al Farsi, the General Manager of Sustainability and Value Creation, discussed Marafiq’s role in supporting the development of the Special Economic Zone at Duqm. He highlights the key infrastructure components operated by the company, explains how Marafiq contributes to local development and talent in Oman, and outlines the company’s long-term strategy, which aligns with Oman Vision 2040.
What role does Marafiq play in supporting the development of the Special Economic Zone at Duqm?
Marafiq supports the Duqm Special Economic Zone by providing centralised utilities, including electricity, industrial water, cooling water, industrial gases, and other essential services under a single umbrella, thereby enhancing the zone’s attractiveness for major industrial and strategic projects.
How does Marafiq’s integrated utilities model differ from traditional utility systems used in remote industrial regions?
Unlike fragmented systems, where each industry develops its own utilities, Marafiq provides a centralised “one-stop shop” utilities model that enables industries to outsource power, water, wastewater, and gas services, thereby achieving cost efficiency and economies of scale.
What are the key infrastructure components operated by Marafiq to supply power and water in Duqm?
Key infrastructure includes a 326-MW integrated power and water plant, desalination facilities, seawater intake systems, high-voltage transmission lines (over 80 km), and extensive water distribution networks exceeding 210 km, along with associated storage facilities.
How does Marafiq contribute to development and local talent in Oman?
Marafiq contributed to In-Country Value (ICV) through investments exceeding 56$ million in local goods and materials during the project execution phase and by providing skilled employment opportunities for 60-70 Omani nationals. During the commercial phase, Marafiq allocates 10%-12% of its procurement to local SMEs (service providers and suppliers).
How does the closed-loop design implemented by Marafiq contribute to resource efficiency and reduced carbon emissions?
Marafiq utilises a state-of-the-art combined cycle power plant design that integrates electricity and water systems to enhance overall plant efficiency and significantly reduce carbon emissions. In addition, efficiency is further improved using air-cooled condensers and waste heat recovery boilers.
How does Marafiq’s long-term strategy align with Oman Vision 2040 and the global energy transition?
Marafiq’s primary source of fuel is natural gas; however, future designs will incorporate a connection to the national grid to benefit from renewable energy sources during off-peak hours. The transition from fossil fuels will occur gradually and will coincide with green, sustainable industrial growth, including the expansion of renewable-aligned utilities (e.g., water for green hydrogen), while prioritising resilient and environmentally sustainable operations that support Oman Vision 2040.