Oman Deep Ocean Water ProjectFeasibility Study Workshop

Oman Deep Ocean Water Industrial Park (DOWIP) Project Feasibility Study Workshop

17 – 18 September 2024, Intercity Hotel, Muscat, Oman

Oman Deep Ocean LLC (ODO)

The Oman Deep Ocean Water Industrial Park Project took a significant leap forward with a two-day feasibility study workshop, focusing on the technological feasibility and economic contribution of the project.

The Oman Deep Ocean Water Project (DOWIP) aims to utilize Oman’s unique access to Deep Ocean Water, found at ocean depths of 200 meters and beyond, to support the nation’s economic diversification and growth objectives. DOW is known for its exceptional purity, cold temperature, and rich mineral content, which makes it ideal for various applications, including agriculture, aquaculture, bottled drinking water, health and wellness, district cooling, and renewable energy. This resource offers Oman a sustainable and renewable water source, with immense potential for value multiplication across industries.

The project synopsis is available here.

The event, held on September 17^th and 18^th, 2024, was graced by distinguished guests of honour.

H.E. Dr. Saoud Al Habsi, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources (MAFWR), delivered the opening address, highlighting the potential of Deep Ocean Water (DOW) to significantly contribute to Oman’s water security and food sustainability.

H.E. Abdulsalam Al Murshidi, President of the Oman Investment Authority (OIA), delivered the closing remarks, reaffirming Oman’s strategic vision to harness its extensive marine resources and build a sustainable, water-secure future. He also reflected on the origins of the Oman Deep Ocean Water Project, which began ten years ago, celebrating the achievements made so far and the promising road ahead.

Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources, H.E. Dr. Saoud Al Habsi

The two-day event saw a strong turnout from representatives of government agencies and private organizations, showcasing the collective interest and collaboration essential for driving the project forward. H.E. Syed Noureddin Bin Syed Hassim, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Singapore to Oman, attended the event to support the Singaporean company leading the project, spearheading investment and technology to drive its success.

Among the attendees were distinguished guests of honor, including His Excellencies, as well as key representatives from both government and private sectors in Oman. Our valued partners also participated, including CNEEC/Sinomach (EPC+F) for the project, Soon Aik Group (JV partner), Inneova Life (Distributor for DOW products), and Surbana Jurong (Technical Consultant).

The workshop brought together world-renowned experts and key stakeholders to discuss the technological feasibility and economic potential of the Oman Deep Ocean Water Project (DOWIP). Among the highlights was a presentation by Dr. Nicholas Koh, who outlined strategic pathways for Oman to emerge as a leading player in the global DOW industry. Mr. Tan Wooi Leong, Senior Executive Director at Surbana Jurong, followed with an in-depth analysis of the technical and economic feasibility of the DOWIP project, focusing on its viability as a driver of sustainable growth for the Sultanate.

**Dr Nicholas Koh**
(Executive Chairman of TFIW)

High Level Discussions

The workshop featured engaging sessions from various experts, including Professor Masayuki Takahashi, known as the “Father of Modern Deep Ocean Water,” who spoke on the global impact of DOW projects and their economic benefits. Aquaculture innovations were also highlighted by Dr Huang, an expert in aquaculture using DOW in Taiwan. The use of DOW in seahorse farming and best aquaculture practices was the highlight of Professor Rho from South Korea.

A key aspect of the discussions revolved around distribution channels for DOW products, with Mr. Koh Soo Ping sharing strategies for expanding Oman’s DOW product supply chain across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. The workshop concluded with a dynamic panel discussion and Q&A session featuring all the speakers over the 2-day event.

Closing Remarks and Mementos

**H.E Dr Saoud Al Habsi**
Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources

On Day 1, the President of the Oman Investment Authority (OIA), HE Abdulsalam Al Murshidi delivered the closing remarks, emphasizing Oman’s strategic vision to harness its vast marine resources and create a sustainable, water-secure future. He reflected on the inception of the Oman Deep Ocean Water Project a decade ago, emphasizing the significant progress made and the promising path that lies ahead.

On Day 2, HE the Minister of Fisheries expressed his support for the project in a brief address, highlighting its importance to Oman’s economic and environmental future.

As a gesture of appreciation for their presence and contributions, guests of honour and speakers were presented with mementos.

Additionally, the event marked a significant milestone with the appointment of Professor Masayuki Takahashi as Honorary Advisor and the signing of an MOU with Haechuma from South Korea, fostering stronger international cooperation.

Prof Masayuki Mac Takahashi (Center)
Dr Nicholas Koh (TFIW) (Left)
Mr Said Al Aufi (MDI) (Right)

Mr. Teo Guo Ping, CEO of TFIW, outlined the financing of Phase 1 of the project, which is progressing with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed with CNEEC / Sinomach as the EPC+F contractor last year. Key actions ahead include finalizing the EPC contract with CNEEC / Sinomach and negotiating financing arrangements for Phase 1 with banks.

The workshop concluded with a clear roadmap for the DOWIP project’s next steps, including continued international cooperation and a focus on technological innovation to ensure the success of this pioneering initiative.

Media Section

Deep Ocean Water Industrial Park Project Introduction

Deep Ocean Water Industrial Park Feasibility Study Workshop

Event Photos

Arrival of Guest of Honour H.E Dr Saoud Al Habsi

Presentation

The program featured:

Dr Nicholas Koh (Unlocking the Future: Pioneering Deep Ocean Water Industrial Park (DOWIP) in the Sultanate of Oman)
Prof. Masayuki “Mac” Takahashi (DOW Development around the world and their impact on economies)
Mr Tan Wooi Leong (The Oman Deep Ocean Water Project – A Feasible Industry Driver and An Enabler For A Water Economy In the Sultanate Of Oman)
Mr Koh Soo Ping (Distribution: An Enabler and Key Success Factor for DOW in Oman)
Prof. Rho Sum / Prof. Hong (Aquaculture Innovations: Seahorse Farming on Jeju Island and applicability in Oman using DOW)
Dr Huang Pingyi (Aquaculture Innovations: The science behind DOW in aquaculture applications)
Mr Teo Guo Ping (Summary of Events)

The profile of the guest speakers is available here.

**Dr Nicholas Koh**
Executive Chairman, TFIW

Audience

The two-day event was well-attended by government officials, private sector representatives, and key partners, highlighting the collective interest and collaboration needed to advance the project.

Q & A

During the lively Q&A session, experts took the stage to address insightful questions from the audience, sparking engaging and interactive discussions. H.E. Dr. Saoud Al Habsi, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources, also shared positive remarks, further enriching the conversation.

Mementos of Appreciation

Mementos were presented by H.E. Dr. Saoud Al Habsi, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources, to the esteemed guest speakers in recognition of their valuable contributions. Additionally, Prof. Masayuki Takahashi graciously gifted his self-authored book to H.E. Dr. Saoud Al Habsi, Dr. Nicholas Koh and Ms Denise Koh.