
Vale first established its operations in the Middle East in 2007 in the Sultanate of Oman, investing 2 billion USD to develop a Pelletizing Plant and Distribution Center in Sohar Port and Freezone.
Over the years, we have pursued opportunities that have not only contributed to the growth of the mining and metals industry but also enabled a positive impact on local communities.
Today, we are catalysts of socio-economic development, generating employment opportunities, nurturing local talent, fostering economic diversification, and strengthening Oman’s industrial value chain.
Today, we are catalysts of socio-economic development, generating employment opportunities, nurturing local talent, fostering economic diversification, and strengthening Oman’s industrial value chain.
Our integrated supply chain enables efficient iron ore distribution, supporting steel production across the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia. Through strategic partnerships and sustainability-driven initiatives, Vale in Oman is committed to low-carbon solutions, environmental responsibility, and long-term social impact.
Vale Oman Pelletizing Plant (VOPC)
Vale has transported millions of tons of iron ore from Brazil to Oman, underscoring Oman’s strategic importance as a hub for iron ore import and re-export. Iron ore is critical for industries such as steel production, construction, and manufacturing. Since the inception of our operations in Oman, we have supplied high-quality iron ore pellets to steel manufacturers across key markets in the Middle East, North Africa, and South and Southeast Asia. These pellets contribute to construction, infrastructure, automotive manufacturing, and various industrial sectors.
Vale Oman Distribution Center (VODC)
Strategically located in Sohar Port, VODC operates as a joint venture with a subsidiary of Apollo Global Management, serving as a logistics hub that facilitates the export of iron ore pellets and fines. Strategically located at the crossroads of key trade routes, Sohar Industrial Port is the only deep-water port in the Middle East capable of handling our 400,000-ton capacity Valemax vessels, optimizing shipping efficiency. Our jetty, located outside the port basin, is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to ensure safe marine operations.

Photo: Vale Archive

Our Key Milestones
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2007
Vale arrives in Oman, recognizing its strategic location and potential as a global logistics hub.
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2012-2023
- An additional USD 1.2 billion was invested in Oman's supply chain.
- Strategic partnerships with global steel manufacturers solidified Oman’s role as a key iron ore hub.
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2009-2011
- Vale establishes Vale Oman Pelletizing Company (VOPC) as a joint venture with OQ (formerly Oman Oil Company).
- Invested 1.25 billion USD in constructing the pelletizing plant.
- 350 million USD was allocated to support local businesses during project development.
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2024
Vale forms a joint venture with Apollo Global Management, further expanding the Vale Oman Distribution Center (VODC).
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2012
Official inauguration of the Sohar industrial complex, featuring a pelletizing plant with a 9-million-ton annual capacity and a 40-million-ton distribution center.

