© Hydrom

Oman’s state-run hydrogen agency, Hydrom, has launched the third round of its green hydrogen land allocation auctions, offering up to 300 square kilometers near Duqm for project development. The move is part of the country’s broader strategy to become a key global exporter of green hydrogen, with a national production target of 1 million tonnes per year by 2030.

Developers must submit bids for projects covering at least 100 square kilometers, meaning a maximum of three development rights will be granted in this round. The auction process started with a Request for Qualifications (RFQ), and shortlisted applicants will proceed to a Request for Proposals (RFP) stage in June. Final bids are due by the end of January 2026, with winners expected to be announced in the second quarter of that year.

Extended Timeline to Improve Project Quality

This round introduces a nine-month preparation period for bidders, giving companies more time for detailed planning and project structuring. The added time is intended to improve project viability and execution certainty.

Hydrom has also dropped its earlier plan for a two-sided pricing auction. Instead, it will use a digital platform to connect project developers with potential offtakers, effectively serving as a matchmaking tool.

Grid Access and Power Monetization Options Added

In a significant change, developers will be allowed to sell surplus renewable electricity to the national grid, subject to regulatory approvals. This adds value to projects and helps integrate them into Oman’s wider energy transition framework.

Duqm Remains Central to Hydrogen Strategy

Duqm continues to be the focal point of Oman’s hydrogen rollout. The area already hosts multiple projects awarded in the first two auction rounds. Hydrom’s approach allows bidders in the current round to define their project footprint within the 300 km² block, offering some flexibility in land use while meeting the minimum 100 km² requirement.

Pipeline and Export Corridors to Europe Underway

Oman’s infrastructure plans include a 2,000-kilometer hydrogen pipeline, with a final investment decision on the first segment expected by 2027. The country is also working with the Netherlands to establish the world’s first dedicated liquid hydrogen export corridor to Europe.

$49 Billion Already Committed in Earlier Rounds

So far, Oman has secured more than $49 billion in investment across eight green hydrogen projects in Duqm and Dhofar. These developments are projected to produce over 1 million tonnes of green hydrogen annually and are backed by over 30 GW of renewable energy capacity.

Oman Positions Itself as a Global Hydrogen Export Hub

“Qualified developers will benefit from access to common-use infrastructure, a stable regulatory framework, and strategic proximity to key demand centers in Europe and Asia,” said Hydrom in a statement.

With this third auction round, Oman continues to build its position as a key global player in the green hydrogen economy, combining land availability, project support, and strategic export access.