President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. welcomed Oman’s ambassador, Nasser bin Said bin Abdullah Al Manwari, at Malacañang, highlighting the strong bilateral ties. He expressed gratitude for Oman’s role in the release of Filipino seafarers and royal pardons for OFWs. Both leaders emphasized dialogue in resolving Middle Eastern conflicts and enhancing cooperation.
The maritime crisis in West Asia intensified this week with a drone attack on Oman’s Port of Salalah, critically disrupting operations at a key transshipment hub. Hapag-Lloyd diverted vessels for safety, while other shipping lines reconsidered routes. The Houthis’ involvement further escalates risks to global maritime trade and regional stability.
Eight Indian seafarers returned to Mumbai after surviving a missile attack on their oil tanker, Sky Light, near Oman. Stranded for over a week, they lost all belongings in the fire. Now, grappling with trauma and uncertainty, they contemplate leaving the profession for the safety of their families.
A tanker off the coast of Oman was struck by an “unknown projectile,” as reported by a UK maritime agency. Anchored at the time, the vessel suffered minor damage, but no crew injuries were reported. Authorities are investigating the incident amid growing concerns about maritime security in the region.
Eight Indian seafarers who survived a missile attack on the oil tanker Sky Light near Khasab port in Oman are set to return home after completing their travel documentation. The attack, which resulted in one death and another missing crew member, left them stranded without essential documents for 12 days.
Oil storage facilities at Oman’s Port of Salalah were attacked by drones, targeting fuel tanks, as reported by British maritime security firm Ambrey. While no damage to commercial vessels was noted, the incident raises alarms about energy infrastructure security amid escalating regional tensions, particularly linked to Iranian activities.
The Maritime Security Center in Muscat has warned seafarers about the risks of relying solely on GPS technology for navigation, particularly in areas far from the Omani coast. The Ministry of Defence urges mariners to carry alternative navigational tools, such as a traditional compass, to ensure safety in unfamiliar waters.
On March 1, the Vietnamese tanker SAND, en route to Iraq, received a distress call from the burning MKD VYOM. Captain Bui Duc Tuan decided to divert and assist. Navigating through the night, the crew rescued all 21 sailors from the lifeboats, showcasing remarkable courage and solidarity in a dangerous situation.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported an explosion 137 nautical miles east of Muscat, Oman, alarming nearby vessels. Eyewitnesses noted smoke following the blast. Fortunately, the vessel and crew were unharmed. UKMTO continues to monitor the situation, emphasizing the need for vigilance in maritime operations in volatile regions.
A Palau-flagged oil tanker, the Skylight, under U.S. sanctions, was attacked near Oman’s Musandam peninsula, injuring four crew members. The incident, occurring close to the vital Strait of Hormuz, follows prior drone strikes, signaling escalating tensions in the region amid retaliatory actions by Iran against U.S.-Israeli initiatives.
A fire on a cargo vessel off Oman left 24-year-old Indian seafarer K. Gopianan unaccounted for. In his last message, he reported the fire and that he was following the captain’s orders. Over two weeks later, his family remains frustrated by the lack of updates on search efforts.
A boat carrying 25 passengers capsized, resulting in three fatalities and 22 survivors, all French nationals. Emergency medical teams evaluated the scene, while authorities launched an investigation into the incident’s causes. This tragedy has raised serious concerns about passenger safety, prompting a commitment to transparency and future safety measures.
The Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Kaundinya completed its historic maiden voyage from Porbandar to Muscat on January 14, 2026. This journey underscores India’s maritime heritage and its enduring ties with Oman. Union Minister Sonowal described it as a vital step in reviving India’s maritime legacy and future aspirations.
India and Oman signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) on December 17, aiming to reduce trade barriers and boost investment. This collaboration focuses on job creation and supply-chain resilience while enhancing maritime cooperation, energy initiatives like green hydrogen, and defense measures. Seven agreements were signed, highlighting diverse cooperative areas.
InvestCorp has secured a $550 million investment to expand the port of Duqm in Oman, enhancing regional infrastructure. The project, under Investcorp Aberdeen Infrastructure Partners, will include marine upgrades and a new quay wall for green steel production, supporting Oman’s economic diversification and decarbonization goals.
