Oman’s Shinas shrimp project advances as aquaculture push gains momentum

OMAN – Work on a large scale shrimp farming complex in Shinas is moving steadily, marking another step in Oman’s effort to expand aquaculture as part of its long term food security and economic diversification plans.

The development is being driven by Singapore based Blue Aqua International with backing from Omani investors, and it is on course to become one of the country’s most technically equipped shrimp production sites.

Blue Aqua’s Group Executive Chairman and Founder Dr Farshad Shishehchian said the facility, which combines a shrimp farm, hatchery and broodstock centre with a target annual output of 1,800 metric tonnes, is expected to be fully operational by February 2026.

He noted that the Shinas site is being built around technology focused farming methods that prioritise controlled operations, efficient water use and strict environmental safeguards.

Dr Shishehchian said the design aims to ensure stable shrimp harvests while meeting high standards for sustainability and disease prevention, adding that the project is intended to serve both domestic supply needs and regional demand.

Part of a broader aquaculture plan

The shrimp farm is one component of a 22 hectare aquaculture initiative announced in 2023 in partnership with Bahwan Services and Trading LLC and Muscat Investment House, which is geared toward producing white shrimp, Rainbow Trout and aquafeed to create a more connected aquaculture chain within Oman.

From the outset, the Shinas project has been positioned as a long term investment, with advanced water treatment systems now being installed to limit waste and improve production efficiency.

The developers have also incorporated robust biosecurity procedures to reduce the risk of disease outbreaks, which remain a challenge for global shrimp farming operations.

Beyond production, the facility is expected to generate jobs in hatchery work, grow out activities, processing, transport and technical services, which could support employment growth in Al Batinah North Governorate where the complex is located.

Blue Aqua’s wider regional plans

The Shinas project ties into Blue Aqua International’s regional expansion strategy, which also includes a planned 5,000 metric tonne land-based trout farm scheduled for completion in 2027.

The trout facility is set to use Recirculating Aquaculture System technology, allowing fish to be raised in controlled indoor environments that require far less water than traditional systems.

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