Silica Sand Project Begins Production in MahoutMuscat, 20 (ONA) —- Minerals Development Oman (MDO), in collaboration with the Earth Sciences Consultancy Center, has announced the commencement of production at the Silica Sand Project located in the Wilayat of Mahout within exploration block F51.This strategic milestone aims to support the growth of Oman’s mining sector and strengthen downstream industries in the Sultanate of Oman.The project covers an area of approximately 5 square kilometers, with confirmed silica sand reserves estimated at around 47 million tonnes. The current phase focuses on the production and supply of raw silica to both local and regional markets, addressing the growing demand and reducing reliance on imports. This will further establish Oman as a reliable regional supplier of this strategic industrial mineral.This initiative aligns with MDO’s broader strategy to foster partnerships with the private sector, develop national mineral resources, and advance value chain integration.In future phases, this partnership plans to develop a primary silica processing facility to enhance product quality and attract high-tech industries such as semiconductors, glass manufacturing, chemical processing, and metallurgical applications. All these efforts will contribute to the development of sustainable local value chains and advanced industrial growth in Oman.The Earth Sciences Consultancy Center will lead the operational and developmental aspects of the project, including investment and production management, while MDO will serve as the resource owner and overall project overseer. According to the approved development plan, initial production capacity is expected to reach 100,000 tonnes annually, with a purity level of approximately 98%.Eng. Matar bin Salim Al Badi, CEO of Minerals Development Oman, emphasized that the commencement of production at the Mahout Silica Sand Project represents a “significant strategic step” in strengthening the mining sector and supporting national industries.He noted that the project goes beyond mere raw material extraction, representing a long-term investment in Oman’s economy and reflecting MDO’s commitment to empowering Omani companies and fostering sustainable private sector growth.He added, “By developing raw silica and expanding into value-added products, we aim to unlock new markets locally and regionally, and firmly establish Oman as a trusted supplier of critical materials for advanced industries.”Dr. Mohammed bin Hilal Al Kindi, CEO of the Earth Sciences Consultancy Center, stated that the center will lead project operations and development to ensure optimal economic and industrial returns for the Sultanate of Oman. He described the project as a sound investment in Oman’s natural resources and a platform for sustainable industrial growth.Silica is a fundamental raw material in modern industries, used in the manufacturing of glass, display screens, semiconductors, and various advanced materials—making it a strategic resource that supports industrial and technological innovation.Minerals Development Oman was established with a clear strategic vision to advance the mining sector in the Sultanate of Oman, increase its contribution to economic and social growth, create job opportunities, build local expertise, support SMEs, and enhance in-country value.—- Ends/Khalid