Sharjah has unveiled a transformative logistics corridor connecting it with Oman, significantly slashing cargo transit times from nearly three months to a mere 35 days. This initiative is set to enhance supply chain efficiency, cut transportation costs, and fortify trade relations between the UAE, Oman, and the broader region. The corridor links Sharjah with key Omani ports such as Sohar, Duqm, and Salalah, utilizing the Khatmat Malaha and Al Madam border points. Officials anticipate even further reductions in transit times as operations mature.
To promote the use of this corridor, Sharjah offers toll exemptions for cargo trucks using the specified routes from Oman. Additional incentives include expedited customs clearance, streamlined cargo movement, and the flexibility for businesses to handle customs processes at inland container terminals instead of at border crossings. This is expected to lower logistics expenses by approximately 15%, varying with cargo type and transport needs, and is particularly advantageous for manufacturers by speeding up the movement of raw materials and finished goods.
This corridor is a strategic move to bolster Sharjah’s role as a regional logistics and manufacturing powerhouse. With over 3,000 factories contributing to about a quarter of the emirate’s GDP, the enhanced trade route is poised to boost exports and lure international investors interested in accessing markets across Africa, India, and Asia. The project aligns with Sharjah’s broader aims of solidifying its position in the regional market landscape.
Operational since May 14, the corridor now enables efficient cargo flow in both directions, supported by synchronized customs processes, real-time data sharing, and dedicated fast-track shipment lanes. This development promises to streamline trade operations and enhance the competitive edge of Sharjah’s manufacturing sector, further driving economic growth and market integration.
