Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company – Orpic and Oman Gas Company (OGC) signed an agreement for the operation and maintenance of a Natural Gas Liquids Extraction plant (NGLE) and associated pipelines. The signing ceremony was held under the auspices of H.E Dr. Ali bin Masoud al Sunaidi, Minster of Commerce and Industry, and attended by government and private dignitaries, as well as Orpic and OGC executives.

The agreement was signed by Eng. Ahmed bin Saleh al Jahdhami, Chief Executive officer of Orpic and Mr. Sultan bin Hamed al Burtmani, Acting Executive Managing Director of OGC.

Under the NGLE services agreement, OGC will provide dedicated services for the operation and maintenance of Orpic`s Natural Gas Liquids Extraction (NGLE) plant located in Fuhud, the upstream of its Liwa Plastics Industries Complex (LPIC) project in Suhar. A roughly 300km 14 inch pipeline connecting the Fuhud NGLE plant with the Suhar complex will also be operated and managed by OGC as part of this arrangement.

The C2+ extracted from Fuhud`s Natural Gas Extraction plant will be combined with the existing products from Orpic’s refineries and petrochemical plants, which supports in producing further integration and flexibility as well as making the full use of the crude materials.

The services agreement will be implemented over three transitional phases throughout the project lifecycle. Each phase entails different levels of responsibility for OGC and Orpic alike.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Orpic CEO Ahmed bin Saleh Al Jahdhami stated: "This agreement comes as part of the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC 3) Liwa Plastics Industries Complex Project (LPIC) which is an investment of USD 6.7 billion currently underway with a 67% overall progress and one of three strategic growth projects implemented by Orpic; driven by its vision to be a globally competitive, downstream business that Oman is proud of. This agreement with OGC marks Orpic’s trust on Omani companies and augments our relentless effort towards increasing the percentage from Orpic annual expenditure in In Country Value (ICV). LPIC will open up the potential to create over 1000 products in the plastics processing industry as well as to enable the extraction of high value products from Natural Gas for the first time in Oman".

Importantly, Orpic NGL is the second processing facility that will be managed by OGC after SLPG, which both will leverage the Sultanate’s natural gas resources and support OGC transformation to become a leading energy infrastructure.

“OGC is the platform for the entire energy midstream segment of Oman Oil Company’s (OOC) business portfolio. One of our key responsibilities is to ensure that the infrastructure is ready not only to maintain a reliable and uninterrupted supply of natural gas to consumers wherever they are in the country, but also to maximise the value generation from this resource. We aim to create an integrated technical system operator who will oversee the whole gas network in the country and integrate it with the midstream model for the Gas processing facilities in the long run,” said Mr. Sultan bin Hamad al Burtmani, Acting Executive Managing Director of OGC.

“We are currently paving our way of transforming OGC into a globally renowned energy infrastructure utility that can be able to power Oman’s future.” Mr. al Burtmani added.

It is worth highlighting that OGC is also laying down a new 32-inch gas pipeline parallel to the existing 32-inch Fuhud-Suhar pipeline to meet the growing gas demand in Suhar Industrial Port and supply gas to Ibri region.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company (Orpic) has launched a new thermoforming grade called Luban HP1151K that will increase both productivity and the overall performance of transparent thermoformed cups, trays and containers. The new PolyPropylene thermoforming grade is based on Milliken`s nucleating innovation Hyperform® HPN-600ei. The new grade (Luban HP1151K) will be launched during 5th Oman Plast Exhibition 2018 at Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Orpic’s Luban HP1151K combines high clarity and aesthetics with a new level of superior dimensional stability for thermoformed products. Luban HP1151K is based on the latest technology available to offer the food packakging and household storage solutions industries a new benchmark in pure, high quality PP.

Apart from being able to increase the number of articles that can be produced, the high quality finished products provide good stacking performance. It also offers a broad processing window that opens up distinct product quality and consistency advantages plus the all-important productivity benefits for converters.

Additionally, the grade delivers optimal environmental and handling-related advantages associated with using lightweight PP compared to other materials.

Gilles Rochas, General Manager – Polymer, Orpic says, “The product has a good resin base and tests conducted so far have been successful. Luban HP1151K reduces haze in the product and increases clarity and gloss. We are confident that upon introduction of Luban HP1151K, this high quality product will offer Oman and the international packaging customers an opportunity to reduce their cycle times and achieve better results through less wastage whilst offering all-round productivity improvements.”

Hyperform HPN-600ei also offers good organoleptics with no contamination risk making Luban HP1151K suitable for food applications.

To learn more about this amazing high quality product and see it first-hand, please visit our stand at OmanPlast 2018.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company – Orpic, is pleased to announce its participation and principal sponsorship of the 5th International Plastics, Rubber, Petrochemicals, Printing and Packaging Industry Exhibition – Oman Plast 2018, which is taking place at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, Muscat.

The exhibition was inaugurated by H.E. Eng Salim Bin Nasser Bin Said Al-Aufi, Undersecretary, Ministry of Oil & Gas; and is attracting a large number of local and international plastics convertors, machinery manufactures and end-users, thereby providing an excellent trade and business opportunities forum for both exhibitors and visitors.

“It is Orpic’s vision to become a globally competitive downstream business that Oman is proud of”, averred Ahmed Saleh Al Jahdhami, CEO of Orpic. “As one of the key steps towards achieving this vision, Orpic has established a Polymer Marketing unit in 2017 and is competitively offering differentiated polypropylene and polyethylene solutions to markets across the globe.”

Speaking on the sidelines of the exhibition, Gilles Rochas, GM – Polymer Marketing, Orpic, stated: “By taking part in Oman Plast 2018, we aim to support the local and international plastics industry in unlocking new business opportunities and further developing the downstream plastic industry in Oman. We are delighted to participate in this event and explore the latest trends in the plastics industry with our customers”.

Throughout the exhibition, a number of eminent Omani and international speakers from the polyolefin industry will be holding technical sessions, covering key topics such as Plastic Supply & Demand, Developing the Plastic Downstream Industry and Technical Advancement in Processing Technology, at the Orpic booth.

Oman Plast is the ideal platform for industry experts and visitors to meet and exchange ideas on latest developments in the sector, while being introduced to the latest technology and machinery for plastics processing.

Al Batinah International School (ABIS) in the Wilayate of Suhar, North Al Batinah Governorate inaugurated its new facilities yesterday, under the auspices of H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Marhoon Al Maamari, State Counselor, Their Excellencies representatives of the State Council, and community leaders.

ABIS aims to be the beacon of quality education in the region by providing the best learning experience to children in the Al Batinah region. ABIS is only 1 of the 3 International Baccalaureate (IB) authorized schools in Oman and the only one to offer the prestigious IB Diploma in North Al Batinah Governorate.

During the event, Engineer Said Al Masoudi, SA’s Chief Executive Officer, delivered a welcoming speech in which he said: “With 37 different nationalities, ABIS has become a cultural mixing pot that offers a unique learning opportunity for students and instills a strong sense of social and environmental responsibility and above all, an appreciation for the arts and culture. Today we celebrate ABIS expansion which will allow the school to grow to 550 students. The wealth of knowledge found here - in the classrooms, in the books, in the library, in the world-class science labs, in the wide array of extra-curricular activities and in the mere interactions with each other- is what we believe will challenge and inspire students to become well rounded global citizens and successful lifelong learners.”

Ahmed Saleh Al Jahdhami, Orpic CEO said "Our joint venture partnership with Sohar Aluminum aims to provide the best quality education to children in Al Batinah region. I am proud of this school and the high standards of education it provides featuring the latest teaching and technological methods. Orpic will continue to support such projects which contribute to build the human capital".

Nofal Al Saidi, General Manager, Human Resource Services, Orpic, and Chairman of ABIS Board said, “ABIS is an International Baccalaureate school and is fully accredited by one of the most rigorous accreditation agencies in the world, the Council of International Schools (CIS). The school provides a rich learning environment which encourages children to achieve their goals and supports them by being active partners in their educational journey which is in-line with one of our values to serve Oman and customers with pride.”

Neil Tomalin, Head of School, ABIS, added, “ABIS believes in holistic development of our students in line with the IB Leaner Profile. We seek to develop not only academically able but also ethically and morally sound, technologically capable, caring and internationally minded individuals. Our mission at ABIS is to recognize and motivate students to achieve their potential and empower them to be life-long learners.”

“ABIS was established by Sohar Aluminium and is now conjointly supported by Orpic. The school offers world class programs to both expatriate and Omani students from K1 to Grade 12, with a campus designed using the latest research to create an environment focused around students and their learning. It includes top quality sports facilities, innovative Learning Communities, purpose build play areas and a farm that links our Omani heritage". Neil Added.

This joint venture project has paved way for supporting quality education in the region allowing for the expansion of ABIS capacity to 550 students with additional land to expand the school capacity to 1200 students when required. In addition to the International Community Section, a Global Section opened to provide high quality international education that ABIS is known for. The Global Section increased the emphasis on English, Arabic and Islamic studies with the aim of helping children grow into Oman`s leaders of tomorrow.

Aimed at earlier year grades enrollment, Orpic has initiated a scholarship program back in 2015. The Orpic ABIS Assisted Scholarship Program will allow able and motivated students living in the North Al Batinah Governorate to have access to world class education. It provides a full range of scholarships (from 30% to a maximum of 100%) for the duration of their school life at ABIS. Having already enrolled 35 Orpic ABIS Assisted Scholarships in the past three years, Orpic will expand its scholarship to an additional 12-15 per year, with the 2018 intake underway.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company (Orpic) yesterday commemorated the opening of a new Fluid Catalyst Cracking (FCC) Materials Characterization Laboratory on the campus of Sohar University in Suhar, Oman. The project, which is a collaboration with the University and U.S.-based W. R. Grace & Co., is the latest example of Orpic’s many In-Country Value (ICV) contributions.

A ribbon cutting event and ceremony was held under the auspices of H.E. Dr. Hilal bin Ali Al Hinai, Secretary General of the Research Council, and in the presence of their Excellencies representatives of the State Council and Al Shura Council; Orpic Chief Executive Officer Ahmed Saleh Al Jahdhami and members of the Orpic management team; Omani government officials, the Board of Directors, Board of Trustees, and the Executive Management of the University along with faculty and students; representatives of W. R. Grace & Co.; and community leaders.

Ahmed Saleh Al Jahdhami, Orpic CEO commented on the opening of the lab: “At Opric, we feel proud to celebrate the successful completion of this ICV project which I am sure will make remarkable contribution to R&D capabilities of the Sohar University and will present excellent teaching, research facilities to help students and researchers in Oman; apart from contributing to Orpic’s own research and continuous improvement agenda.”

Tom Petti, Grace’s President, Refining Technologies added, “We are excited by this collaboration, which will serve the interests of all three partners and the community. Grace will improve service and response time to Orpic thanks to the close proximity of the laboratory. The students and faculty of Sohar University gain a significant learning opportunity. And the people of Oman benefit from this investment in the In-Country Value (ICV) program through our ongoing commitment to the region and the industry.”

Mr. Jamal Al Ojaili, Chancellor of Sohar University said, “Sohar University is working closely with the private sector as key drivers of economic in Oman. We are delighted to work with Orpic and Grace to establish a commercial materials characterization laboratory on campus and this unique initiative will serve as a model of how businesses and universities can work together for mutual benefit to provide new opportunities for companies and provide career development.”

The modern laboratory will be of significant benefit to Omani students and the initiative delivers state-of-the-art technology and knowledge transfer opportunities for Omani scientists as well.

Grace’s USD 3.5 million investment in the lab, which began operation in 2017, represents the first opportunity in the three-party collaboration. The facility is equipped with the latest catalysts testing technology, and employs highly skilled Omani scientists. The advanced catalyst testing techniques utilized in the laboratory will result in a high-quality service with rapid response times for many of the technical requirements of Orpic refineries. In addition to its investment, Grace also provides technical support in the training of lab personnel and, as the world’s leading supplier of FCC catalysts, enhances the University’s research and development capability by providing access to world-class expertise in the field of catalysis, as well as bringing skilled jobs to the country.

In the year 2017, Orpic was awarded “Best Support from Large Company” on the third edition of the Entrepreneurship Awards for its continued support and interest to Omani entrepreneurs.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries - Orpic welcomed the fifth batch of students as part of its International Scholarship Programme. This initiative is part of Orpic’s continued support to develop and nurture the future leaders of Oman and to support the young students in North Al Batinah to reach new heights in their academic and career paths.

Established in 2013, Orpic International Scholarship Programme entailed selecting students from North Al Batinah Governorate to benefit from the scholarships provided based on preset criteria. Once applications are received, screening of candidates are carried out by Takatuf Scholars Programme and selected students are offered international scholarships for two years in a preparatory school followed by another 4 years for Bachelor Degree in one of the leading universities around the world.

Nofal Al Saidi, GM, Human Resource Services, Orpic said, “We are proud to welcome the fifth batch to the programme which enhances the vital role of Orpic in building the capacities of young Omanis in collaboration with Takatuf Scholars Programme. Orpic believes in the importance of investing and developing Omani youth to create future leaders for the country.”

Sheikh Ibrahim Al Harthy, CEO of Takatuf Oman, added "We are proud of this ongoing strategic partnership with Orpic, which has produced this talented Omani youth group from the North Al Batinah governorate who we believe will be an important added asset to the Sultanate. We are proud of what they have achieved and look forward to witness their further success in the future."

The program works closely with international leaders to follow up on their personal development and achievement through continuous communication with their educational institutions, periodic visits and annual assessment of individual students, as well as providing on job training during their school holidays.

The 10 Orpic international scholars will have the opportunity to complete their education, gain more useful skills for their academic and practical life and eventually build their career with Orpic upon successful completion of their international programme.

Orpic Logistic Company, a joint venture between Orpic and CLH officially inaugurated yesterday one of its strategic growth projects, the Muscat Suhar Product Pipeline (MSPP) and the main fuel terminal in Al Jefnain, wilayate of Al Seeb under the auspices of H.E. General Sultan bin Mohammed AL Nu’amani , Minister of the Royal Office, and in the presence of a number of Ministers, members of the Board of Directors of Orpic, Their Excellencies representatives of the Al Shura Council, and community leaders.

Commenting on this occasion, H.E. Sultan bin Salim Al Habsi, Deputy Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Central Bank of Oman, and Deputy Chairman of Orpic Board of Directors said, “We are proud to witness the inauguration of one of the three important strategic growth projects undertaken by Orpic which is the Muscat Suhar Product Pipeline (MSPP) and Al Jefnain Terminal. The project comes in response to the strategic objectives set by the government for developing oil products logistics solutions in the Sultanate to meet the rapidly growing demand for fuels".

The USD 336 million investment is an important logistic project across the Sultanate which delivers more than 50% of Oman’s fuel via the state-of-the-art storage facility in Al Jefnain. In addition to meeting the domestic future demand for fuels, this project reduces pollution resulting from lower truck movements in Muscat by 70%.

Ahmed Saleh Al Jahdhami, CEO, Orpic said “Muscat Suhar Products Pipeline and Al Jefnain Terminal project is the first of its kind being constructed in Oman – utilizing a single pipeline to produce accurate product and bringing a new level of efficiency and lower costs to its business.”

"The project offers many social, economic and environmental benefits, including improved road safety, efficient fuel supply, and reduced pollution by lower movement of oil tanker trucks. On the In-country value (ICV) front, MSPP has contributed by USD 149 million to Omani local purchases and SMEs, representing 44% out of the total project cost". Al Jahdhami added.

With around 170,000 m3 of storage capacity, the new terminal increases the nation’s storage capacity for refined products by 70%. This additional capacity enhances the securing of fuel supply to the population.

Helping take fuel distribution efficiency in the Sultanate to the next level, the MSPP and Al Jefnain terminal project is a joint venture partnership between Orpic and Spanish firm Compa??a Log?stica de Hidrocarburos (CLH). The latter has a formidable reputation in the European energy logistics industry going back 90 years. The CEO of CLH commented on this occasion: "The MSPP project is a significant landmark in the history of our company and we believe it will open the door to new opportunities. CLH is definitely committed to develop the Omani economy and talent and we hope we can do more things together both in Oman and in the region".

The MSPP and Al Jefnain Terminal features a 290 KM pipeline which is connected by three sections of the pipeline network including a 10” multi-product pipeline of 45 kms length from Mina Al Fahal Refinery to Al Jefnain Terminal. The second pipeline is an 18” multi-product pipeline of 220 kms length from Suhar Refinery to Al Jefnain Terminal. The last one is a 10” dedicated pipeline for jet fuel of 25-km length from Al Jefnain terminal to the new Muscat International Airport. The dedicated airport pipeline comes to support the expansion of the new Muscat International Airport in which jet fuel gets pumped directly from the terminal in Al Jefnain to the airport without requiring tanker trucks which ultimately increase the safety of jet fuel supply to the airport.

Additionally, the new terminal is equipped with 16 loading bays with capacity to load up to 700 trucks per day with products to be transported across petrol stations. Furthermore, the new terminal is supplied by two multiproduct and bidirectional pipelines connected to Orpic’s Suhar and Muscat Refineries, which are the safest and most efficient transport media for oil products for medium distances.

It is worth to mention that Muscat Suhar Product Pipeline and Al Jefnain Terminal constituted of state-of-the-art control systems with latest SCADA technology, leak detection, and telecommunications network and was constructed by Gulf Petrochemical Services (GPS).

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company – Orpic participated at the Annual Media Conference 2018 which was organized by the Ministry of Oil and Gas along with the operating Oil and Gas companies in the Sultanate.

Ahmed Saleh Al Jahdhami, Orpic CEO addressed the media and talked about Orpic`s key achievements for 2017 in regards to its Strategic Growth Projects, environmental and financial performance as well as the latest updates on people, In-Country Value (ICV) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

We firmly believe that these three major projects will transform Orpic’s business model and product mix over the next years and will firmly reinforce Orpic as a recognized player in the international petrochemicals marketplace," says Orpic CEO.

All of Orpic’s strategic growth projects known as Suhar Refinery Improvement Project (SRIP), Muscat Suhar Product Pipeline (MSPP) and Liwa Plastics Industries Complex (LPIC) are progressing as per schedule. SRIP and MSPP have already entered the operational phase in 2017. The combination of the three projects represents a growth strategy that revolves around increased integration within the manufacturing complex, and the production of a broader slate of petrochemical products that will enable Orpic to extract more value from the oil and gas molecules of Oman.

On its financial Performance, Orpic’s achieved highest EBITDA in 2017, thereby sustaining a positive revenue trend.

On the people perspective, Orpic firmly believes in empowering its people to maximize their potential and considers people as its biggest asset. As an employer-of-choice, Orpic recruits, trains and retains the best talents in Oman. Up until 2017, Orpic recruited more than 1000 employees and trainees across different functions and departments. On the other hand, Orpic had awarded 40 scholarships as part of its International Scholarship Programme to enable young Omani students to study in leading universities across the world.

As a responsible company, Orpic’s objective is to support business development, human capability development, and productivity stimulation in Oman’s economy through the retention of maximum in-country value. Orpic fully supports the national ICV program and plans to maximize its ICV contribution within the USD 9.5 billion capital projects. Hence, the total ICV value spent for 2017 including growth projects were USD 330 Million. In addition, 340 local SMEs were awarded contracts during 2017 with a value of USD 21 Million.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company – Orpic will officially inaugurate one of its strategic growth projects, the Muscat Suhar Product Pipeline (MSPP) and the main fuel terminal in Al Jefnain on the 21^st March, 2018.

The USD 336 million investment is an important logistic project across the Sultanate which will deliver more than 50% of Oman’s fuel via the state-of-the-art storage facility in Al Jefnain. In addition to meeting the domestic future demand for fuels, this project will reduce pollution resulting from lower truck movements in Muscat by 70%.

This is the first of its kind to be constructed in Oman – removing the need for Orpic to ship refined products between Suhar and Mina Al Fahal (Muscat), and bringing a new level of efficiency and lower costs to its business. It is worth to mention that the project will also be equipped with loading facilities designed to load up to 700 trucks per day.

Orpic was one of the chief participants of PAKPLAS2018, held from 16th – 18th March 2018, at the Lahore Expo Centre in Pakistan. The exhibition was attended by key people from Orpic`s Polymer Marketing Team.

The exhibition served as an ideal platform for the Polymer Marketing team to meet customers to highlight their strategy and showcase Orpic’s innovative polyolefin solutions. Speaking at the exhibition, Gilles Rochas, GM, Polymer Marketing, said, “Pakistan is a strategically important market for us. We are here to demonstrate our commitment to win customer preference and to present our existing and future polypropylene and polyethylene solutions to Pakistan and the world; driven by Orpic`s vision to be a globally competitive, downstream business that Oman is proud of."

The exhibition attracted a large number of local & international exhibitors and visitors, and provided the Polymer team an opportunity to uncover and establish new business opportunities as well as meet potential buyers.

PAKPLAS2018 is the leading international trade fair dedicated towards plastic machinery, components, raw materials and chemicals. The fair presents products and services, technologies and innovations and future trends and markets for trade. It serves as an international meeting place for worldwide suppliers as well as regional manufacturers.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company (Orpic) participated at the SQU Career & Training Opportunities Fair from 5 to 7 March 2018. The Fair was under the patronage of H.E. Dr. Ahmed Mohammed Obaid Al Saidi, Minister of Health.

The fair aims to provide jobs and training opportunities for SQU students and graduates in order to enhance their abilities, develop their skills, and prepare them for the labor market. The fair is considered to be an excellent opportunity for students who are in the stage of choosing their academic specializations to be exposed to the most demanded ones in the Omani labor market and the career paths associated with them.

Orpic’s stand attracted a large number of students and young job seekers throughout the fair. Human Resources team was available to meet and interact with them regarding the career and training opportunities the company offers, as large number of young Omanis, especially new graduates, who were inquiring about these two points.

As part of Orpic’s commitment to support the national drive, Orpic will be training and developing young Omanis to take on various roles. The development program will be supported by mentors who will actively seek to nurture and guide these young minds into a bright future.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company - Orpic conducted a local recruitment campaign based on its ongoing business expansion as well as its approved manning plan for 2018. Conducted over two days the recruitment drive, held in Muscat, generated tremendous response with around 300 prospective candidates who met the basic requirements interviewed out of around 12,000 entries.

Orpic is undergoing a major transformation especially with the commissioning of its strategic growth projects; Suhar Refinery Improvement project (SRIP) and Muscat Suhar Product Pipeline (MSPP), whereas Liwa Plastics Industries Complex (LPIC) is scheduled for commissioning by 2020. In view of the same, the recruitment campaign has been undertaken to not just create jobs but to provide a challenging and rewarding career to bright young talented minds.

Orpic firmly believes in supporting the national In-Country Value programme and hence believes in nurturing and developing Omanis to take on roles in line with the company’s long term strategic growth plan. Over time, Orpic has trained several batches of Omanis to take on positions across different internal disciplines. Over the next few years, Orpic will aim at recruiting several competent national cadre to operate the current and upcoming plants.

Nofal Al Saidi, GM – Human Resource Services, said, “We are entering an exciting future wherein Orpic will soon transform into an international player in the global petrochemicals marketplace. Now is the time we require highly talented applicants to bolster our existing teams and work with the largest projects. We aim to serve Oman and customers with pride and people are our number one asset. We are always on the lookout for passionate people who will grow with our business.”

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company (Orpic) and the Italian Embassy in Muscat held a conference focused on “Plastic and Design” on the occasion of the Italian Design Day. The event was held at the Intercontinental hotel, Muscat and attended by dignitaries from the Italian Embassy, senior Polymer Marketing officials, academicians, design students and customers.

Presentations were made by renowned artist Matteo Aldo Origoni, referred to as the Italian Design Ambassador who spoke about “Plastic: A material that made the Italian Design History” and by Mario Maggiani, President Amaplast, Italian Plastic Association who provided an overview on "The Italian Plastics and Rubber Machinery Industry.”

In his presentation, Cristian Hedesiu, – Polymer Marketing Manager, Orpic, highlighted the importance of Orpic’s polymer products, grades and solutions as well as the company’s ambition to be a global leader in the polymer business.

An engagement session was held with the attendees which highlighted Orpic’s strategy and showcased innovative polyolefin solutions and the many opportunities Orpic offers to its existing as well as potential customers.

Speaking at the event, H. E Giorgio Visetti, Italian Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman, expressed gratitude to Orpic for organizing an interactive seminar and stated, “We are pleased to partner with Orpic and our Italian counterparts to celebrate Italian Design Day. Given the crucial role of the Oil & Gas sector in the Sultanate’s economy, the Italian Embassy decided to dedicate the celebrations to the strict bond interlinking plastic materials and the world of design, in order to emphasize the opportunities provided by this valuable material across sectors. Through such sessions, we aim to enhance in-country value at each stage of the production chain, thereby contributing to the Sultanate’s manufacturing and design capacity.”

On his part, Gilles Rochas, GM – Polymer Marketing, Orpic, said, “We are extremely grateful to the Italian Ambassador as well as the embassy for giving us this fantastic opportunity. It was such an honour to meet Matteo and Mario, who shed light on the plastics industry. We are here to demonstrate our commitment to win customer preference and present our polyethylene and polypropylene solutions to the world which are driven by Orpic`s vision to be a globally competitive, downstream business that Oman is proud of.”

Orpic received the Authorized Economic Operator Certificate (AEO) from the Directorate General of Customs after demonstrating a strong track record of government compliance, processes and systems; providing it with cutting-edge benefits across its supply chain.

Besides security benefits, Orpic will enjoy other trade facilitation advantages such as: faster cargo clearances at borders, decreased number of Customs inspections, international certification and marketing benefits, priority access to inspections and clearances at border crossing points, In-advance-processing of minor permits in the system (Increased pre-clearance of goods),release the cargo without completing the customs processes, gain a reputation as a safe and low-risk operator locally and internationally, access to use AEO logo in the marketing processes.

Dr. Hilal bin Abdullah Al Hinai, GM Corporate Support Services – Orpic comments: "Receiving the Authorized Economic Operator certification cements our role as a trusted trading partner that constantly improves supply chain processes, benefiting our long list of customers around the world. It also reinforces Orpic commitment to implementing and streamlining the mandates of the Directorate General of Customs across the business community in Oman".

"We look forward to growing this partnership and help benchmark business excellence throughout all trading sectors in full alignment with Oman’s 2040 Logistics Strategy". Dr. Hilal concluded.

Colonel Khalifa bin Ali Al Siyabi — Director-General of Customs said: "Orpic comes on top of the certified economic operators in Oman due to its strong track record of customs compliance and security standards. The AEO will enable Orpic to elevate its manufacturing prowess, it will also enhance Orpic Polymer Marketing (OPM) import and export portfolio, and increase the strategic value of its trade management operations worldwide especially for its polypropylene and polyethylene product brand "Luban".

The AEO programme was implemented by Royal Oman Police at the Directorate General of Customs. The globally-recognized certification is in full compliance with the World Custom Organization’s (WCO) standards and the framework developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO). It was also supported by the World Trade Organisation’s (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement, in order to create to establish strategic partnerships to ensure security within the business community and facilitate the international supply chain and global trade.

Additionally, the programme contributes to greater cost savings, fewer customs controls, and recognition of recipients as safe and secure business partners globally.

Orpic along with its sales agent in Egypt, ACO Egypt For Petroleum & Petrochemicals Service , held the first petrochemical and petroleum conference under the theme of "Towards sustainable Oman–Egypt Partnership" which is held alongside the 16th International Middle East and Africa Exhibition for Plastic Industries (PLASTEX) 2018 in Cairo ?from 18th – 21st January, 2018.? The conference was inaugurated by Khalid Abu Al-Makarem, Chairman of the Export Council for Chemicals and Fertilizers and in the presence of a number of Egyptian government officials, business experts, polymer business owners and media.

The conference was followed by an appreciation customer dinner hosted by Orpic and ACO. The dinner represents an ideal platform to meet with Orpic customers to highlight Orpic strategy and showcase the innovative polyolefin solutions and the many opportunities they create.

Gilles Rochas, Polymer Marketing GM – Opric opened the conference with a welcoming remarks followed by a presentation on Orpic`s polymer products, grades and solutions. Abdulrahman Alim, CEO ACO Egypt For Petroleum & Petrochemicals Service took the stage then and commended the successful cooperation between Orpic and ACO to deliver quality polymer products to the Egyptian market.

Gilles emphasized on the importance of such events; leading to a continuous dialogue with Orpic customers; not only in Egypt but across Orpic`s networks worldwide. He commented: "There is no doubt that the Egyptian market has a strategic importance for Orpic. There are more than 3000 converters in which Egypt import most of its polyethylene and polypropylene needs,"

A panel discussion represented by Orpic`s Polymer Marketing GM along with Orpic`s polymer sales team and ACO CEO was also held to address the needs and requirements of customers in Egypt, as well as to explore mutual interests and ways to boost trade relations to new heights.

"We are here to demonstrate our commitment to win customer preference and to present our polyethylene and polypropylene solutions to Egypt and the world; driven by Orpic`s vision to be a globally competitive, downstream business that Oman is proud of." Gilles added.

Orpic is currently taking part at the 16^th International Middle East and Africa Exhibition for Plastic Industries (PLASTEX) 2018 in Cairo from 18^th – 21^st January, 2018. The exhibition was inaugurated by Khalid Abu Al-Makarem, Chairman of the Export Council for Chemicals and Fertilizers and in the presence of a number of Egyptian government officials.

Gilles Rochas, General Manager, Polymer Marketing, Orpic says on this occasion: "Driven by Orpic`s vision be a globally competitive, downstream business that Oman is proud of, it is vital for us to be part of major international plastic exhibitions to connect with our customers, exchange expertise and identify new potential markets,"

Orpic booth at PLASTEX showcases a wide range of plastic products which are made from the company`s polypropylene plants and being distributed to more than 60 countries worldwide.

"The Egyptian market represents a strategic importance of our product outreach across the global markets; hence comes our participation to ensure our commitment, quality services and best customer experience of the Luban brand to the Egyptian market." Rochas added.

Upon the commissioning Orpic`s Liwa Plastics Industries Complex (LPIC) in 2020, the plastics production is forecast to have increased by more than 1 million tonnes, giving Orpic a total of 1.4 million tonnes of polyethylene and polypropylene production. The project will transform Orpic’s product mix and business model, double company profit, create new business opportunities, generate significant employment opportunities and support the development of a downstream plastics industry in Oman.

It is worth mentioning that PLASTEX is a leading exhibition in North Africa and one of the most prominent events in the region. The exhibition focuses on plastic machinery, components, raw materials and chemicals in North and East Africa.

Orpic officially announces the appointment of Mohammed Sadek Sulaiman as General Manager Corporate Planning (GM-CP) with immediate effect.

Mohammed is an investment professional who has worked both in the Sultanate of Oman and worldwide. His work has given him the opportunity to participate in the development of some groundbreaking initiatives. In Oman, while with Oman National Investment Development Company (TANMIA), he was involved in establishing ASAAS, Takaful Oman and other major Omani companies.

In his career at the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Mohammed participated in the financing of the first major non-recourse real estate development, and also worked on the first UAE mutual fund.

As part of its value to put safety, health and the environment first, Orpic has successfully concluded the performance tests of Al Jifnain terminal and the pipeline between Suhar refinery and Al Jifnain terminal.

The performance testing period has been utilized to train the drivers of the tanker trucks who will be transporting the oil products from Al Jifnain terminal to the petrol stations. The new operational model in the terminal implies that the driver executes the loading process by himself, without requiring any assistance from Orpic staff at the terminal. Drivers found the system and the ergonomic characteristics of the new assets easy to operate, especially of the loading arms, which are designed to minimize the physical effort of the driver, therefore improving occupational health. Additionally, the performance testing period has been utilized to measure the gate-to-gate time of the tanker trucks inside the terminal. The first statistics are showing a time of less than thirty minutes, which is aligned with the best-in-class terminals of this type worldwide.

The terminal has been undergoing performance testing by Orpic since October 12th 2017 under the control and supervision of the contractor; rectifying critical aspects that were hampering the proper functioning of the assets in terms of efficiency and safety.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company - Orpic’s Mina Al Fahal Refinery has commenced its startup operations on 9th November 2017 after a major turnaround, maintenance and project activities.

The major turnaround started from 3rd October for a period of 45 days and is planned to complete including start-up on the 16th November 2017.

While Orpic’s key mission is to ensure that its operations run safely and reliably at all time, an increased level of flaring and noise can be expected during start-up activities for a couple of days. While minimizing the impact on the surrounding local community, Orpic relies on the community’s support and understanding during this period of start-up.

The turnaround operations had a total peak workforce of 2,200 people on site and a total of 1,000,000 man-hours spend.

Orpic officially announces the appointment of Ahmed Said Al-Azkawi as General Manager Procurement Contracts and Inventory (GM PCI) with immediate effect.

Ahmed recently held the position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Oman Logistics Company SAOC. Prior to that, he was engaged with Public Establishment for Industrial Estate and the Supreme Council for Planning as a Project Director. He had also worked for Petroluem Development of Oman (POD) for almost 17 years and his last role before departing PDO was Senior Value Assurance Consultant.

On the academic front, Ahmed has bachelor degree in physics from Imperial College London and a master degree in Petroleum Engineering from Heriot-Watt University Edinburgh.

Orpic celebrated Omani Women’s Day with a special get together in Suhar in the presence of Dr. Rahma Ibrahim Al Mahruqi, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Postgraduate Studies and Research, Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), along with Ahmed bin Saleh Al Jahdhami, Orpic CEO and a number of special invitees from the community in North Al Batinah. The high profile event retained a festive atmosphere where women employees extended the hand of friendship and Omani hospitality to fellow colleagues and invitees. 

Everyone present showered love and gratitude to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said for supporting Omani women in all spheres of life. They also expressed appreciation for designating a day in honour of Omani women and the enviable position that women enjoy in this country, including representation in key government positions.

Ahmed Saleh Al Jahdhami, CEO, Orpic said, “At Orpic, we firmly believe that the development of our blessed nation significantly center’s on the role played by women. We consider that education, training and equal opportunities are crucial to women’s empowerment. Women are leading key responsibilities and senior positions within our organisation and their contributions are adding to our success.”

Shaima Al Aufi, Manager – Corporate Communications & Chairman, Women’s Leadership Committee, stated, “The number of women employees in Orpic has increased from 100 in 2011 to 270 in 2017 with an annual growth average of more than 20 per cent, marking a 9 per cent of the overall workforce in technical as well as non-technical positions. Our ‘Women’s Leadership Committee’ also continues to play an important role in ensuring the continued success of women in the workplace. As an organisation, we are committed to promoting a suitable work-life balance as well as a sense of bonhomie among fellow colleagues.”

Orpic celebrates Omani Women’s Day in an annual basis to reiterate one of Orpic’s values to serve Oman with pride and that to recognize the essential role women are playing to contribute side by side with their fellow men in driving the country’s growth and development.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company – Orpic marks the beginning of its commercial operations at the Muscat Suhar Product Pipeline (MSPP) project through its main fuel terminal in Al Jefnain. The USD 320 million investment is one of Orpic’s strategic growth projects which will deliver more than 50% of Oman’s fuel via the state-of-the-art storage facility.

Orpic has reached a new milestone of MSPP and Al Jifnain Terminal’s commissioning as it has completed its first operational truck loading to the local oil marketing companies in Oman.

The fuels are currently supplied by pipeline to the terminal from Orpic’s Suhar Refinery. Al Jifnain Terminal will serve as new hub for fuel supply to local marketing companies. The terminal will start to commercially supply Aviation Fuel by the year end through a direct pipeline to support the requirement of Muscat International Airport.

In addition to meeting the domestic future demand for fuels, this project will increase the sufficiency of the fuel storage and reduced pollution resulting from lower truck movements in Muscat by 70%.

This is the first of its kind to be constructed in Oman – removing the need for Orpic to ship refined products, and bringing a new level of efficiency and lower costs to its business. It is worth to mention that the project will also be equipped with loading facilities designed to cater to the loading of more than 500 trucks per day.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company - Orpic’s Mina Al Fahal Refinery continues its major planned turnaround and maintenance activity according to the plan which commenced on 3rd October until 16th November 2017 for 45 days.

The Turn Around operations which takes place every 4 years has a total workforce of 2,200 engineers and technicians and an anticipated 1,000,000 man-hours at site to carry out maintenance activities. This is required to integrate the MAF refinery’s units with the newly constructed ones at the Suhar Refinery Improvement Project (SRIP) and Muscat – Suhar Product Pipeline (MSPP).

Product supply of fuels and petrochemicals to the local market has been meticulously scheduled and secured to ensure supply to the market. In cooperation with Oman oil marketing company, Shell and Al Maha Petroluem, Orpic is using a number of logistical supply channels including sea shipping from Suhar Refinery to Mina Al Fahal Refinery and Al Jufnain Depot as well as Suhar Refinery.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company (Orpic) has announced a new reconstitution of its Board of Directors to be chaired by H. E. Dr. Mohammed bin Hamed Al Rumhi, Minister of Oil & Gas (Chairman), H.E. Sultan bin Salim Al Habsi, (Deputy Chairman), H.E. Nasser bin Khamis Al Jashmi, Undersecretary, Ministry of Finance (Member), Hon. Salaam bin Said Al Shaqsi, Member of the State Council (Member) and Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Lamki (Member).

On this occasion, Orpic would like to express its sincere gratitude to the departing board members for their able leadership over the past years which led the company to accomplish the remarkable growth it enjoys today. While at the same time, Orpic welcomes the new board and look forward to working under their leadership to continue the its journey to achieve greater heights.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company - Orpic’s Mina Al Fahal Refinery currently undergoes a major planned turnaround and maintenance activity from 3rd October until 16th November 2017 for 45 days. Comes to ensure that Orpic’s operations run safely and smoothly at all times, this shutdown will be used to execute a number of maintenance activities in order to improve the operational performance of the refinery.

This planned turnaround is undertaken every 4 years to carry out Inspection and testing, debottlenecking projects, revamps and catalyst regeneration that are much needed to ensure refinery reliability and improved efficiency of all its downstream units.

The 45 day maintenaice period will cover modifications to the existing plant to allow a full integration of the new units, being constructed under the Suhar Refinery Improvement Project (SRIP) and Muscat Sohar Product Pipeline (MSPP) project including a distribution depot in Jifnain, that are due for commissioning later in the year. All product supply during the period of the TA has been maliciously scheduled through all Orpic’s delivery points to ensure smooth product delivery to all local marketing companies.

The turnaround is expected to have a total workforce of 2,200 and anticipated 1,000,000 man-hours at site. During the Turn Around period, an increased level of traffic around the Mina Al Fahal area as well as an increased level of noise and flare is expected. Therefore, Orpic relies on the community’s support and understanding during this period while it ensures its best to reduce the impact on the surrounding local community.

Under the auspices of H.E. Sheikh Khalid bin Omar Al Marhoon, Ministry of Civil Service, Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries) celebrated this week the graduation of 171 Omani trainees and the welcoming of 147 trainees at a gala ceremony held in Radisson Blue Hotel in Sohar. These graduates are part of Orpic’s comprehensive training programme, which Orpic undertakes on a yearly basis.

The event, felicitated employees from different disciplines such as mechanical, electrical & instrument engineers, HSE fire fighters, process operators and engineers, etc who will form Orpic’s first taskforce cell working in one of the company’s major growth project, the Liwa Plastic Industries project ( LPIC). The ceremony was also presided by senior government officials, dignitaries, CEO of Orpic and the Executive team.

Orpic Trainee Development Program was established in 2011 and has trained more than 884 trainees to date. It is a purpose wise tailored training program made up of an intense 6 months classroom training in state of the art training facilities and curricula. This is followed by another 6 months of on-the-job training where trainees are given the chance to experience and practice the real working life situations in Orpic’s operations and activities, enabling them to apply acquired knowledge and sharpen their skills.

Speaking on the occasion H.E. Sultan bin Salim Al Habsi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Orpic stated “The training of young Omani youth is very crucial for it ensures strong, sustainable and balanced growth of Orpic and the national economy.”

Ahmed bin Saleh Al Jahdhami, Orpic’s CEO, said, “Orpic is gearing up to be a globally competitive Company in the oil refining and petrochemical industries sector, utilizing Omani competencies that we are proud of. It is a vision that cannot be realized without a qualified workforce that is dedicated and passionate. For that we In Orpic, firmly understand the importance of training and it’s broad and profound benefits to both employees and the company.. These young minds will be supported by mentors and function heads who will actively seek to nurture and guide them into a bright future whilst bring the potential of our people alive.”

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company (Orpic) employees visited In-patients kids at Suhar Hospital to share the joy of Eid Al Adha with them.

Numbers of gifts and toys were presented to those kids who deprived of the chance to celebrate Eid with their families and friends. Orpic organized this initiative for the 4th year in a row in accordance with one of Orpic’s core values in serving Oman with pride and as part of its continuous community engagement program which aims to communicate with community members and enhance the concept of solidarity between the company and the society, in addition to extending cooperation bridges to achieve a safe social environment.

Dr. Hilal Al HINAI, General Manager Corporate Support Services, said: “our aim is to engage with community in different occasions and Eid Al Adha celebration is one of the most important occasion in which children enjoy receiving gifts and playing with their friends while in-patient kids deprived of that chance. Therefore, Orpic organized this noble initiative to increase the sense of social responsibility among its employees who volunteer their Eid time to share it with in-patients kids and congratulating them - wishing them good health and wellness”.

At Orpic, we look forward to underpin a solid ground of engagement with our community by participating and taking role in such occasions which also encourage others to adopt social responsibility practices achieve integration and partnership with various sectors of government and private.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company - Orpic was felicitated with five top awards at the 8th Asia’s Best Employer Brand Awards 2017 which was held on 1st August 2017 in Sentosa, Singapore. This prestigious event attracts more than 200 companies from Asia-Pacific (APAC) Region and over 400 Senior HR leaders from the industry in addition to top global brands across the industry.

Orpic was honoured to receive 5 top awards at this glittering ceremony on the categories of “Diversity Impact Award”, “Excellence in Training and development; Best Results Based Training Award”, “Best Leadership Development Programme for Workers Award”, “Excellence in Training and Development Awards” and “Best Education Management Programs Award”.

Nofal Al Saidi, GM - HRS, Orpic, said, “It is a great honour to receive five awards which is a testament of our commitment and hard work towards our value to aim for a leading performance. Orpic has been putting constant efforts to attract, retain and develop its employees while at the same time embarks on a number of regular training programs and initiatives for both fresh graduates and employees throughout the year”.

Ali Al Mahruqi, Manager, Learning and Development, commented on this occasion, ”Our main goal is to ensure that we carry out the best learning and development programs to bring the best potential of our people; paving the road to build Omani leaders for tomorrow,”

Saeed Al Hashmi, Manager HR Strategy and Talent Acquisition (HRSTA) said: “Ever since I was appointed on this role, the focus on our people has been given the top priority with clear commitment to attract the right talents through a number of campaigns, programs and initiatives both locally and internationally”.

Orpic places a significant importance to the learning and development to its people. In 2016, each employee attended an average of 4 training courses, approximately 64 training hours per employee per year which is higher than the recommended industry average of 32 hours.

To date, 14 Orpic employees are enrolled into Diploma Degree and Masters Programs both in local and international institution. Orpic has a unique Leadership program called Arriyadah, this program is aimed developed deep leadership competencies for people leaders delivered by top class global leadership training providers. Apart from this, Orpic also has a unique program designed for hi-potential employees called Talents Development Program. This program is aimed to develop leadership and management competencies preparing talents for higher responsibilities and supporting the succession planning process. A total of 36 employees completed this program in 2016 earning them a Level 5 CMI qualification.

To meet Orpic strategic growth, every year, Orpic recruits about 150-300 fresh technical graduates. The trainees are put through a Trainee Development Program which consist of 6 months classroom and 6 months on the job training. To date, 844 trainees have been successfully inducted into various plants across Orpic.

Started in 2014, the Orpic International Scholarship Program is a nation building initiative to recognized top talents and provide them with top class education. Designed to prepare Oman’s most talented young people for personal and professional success, the program takes them to some of the prestigious learning institutions around the world. To date, Orpic has 20 scholars in top schools around Europe, Canada and USA.

Hosted by Employer Branding Institute (EBI), the Asia’s Best Employer Brand Awards celebrate outstanding HR professionals who are contributing to “Talent Management, Talent Development and Talent Innovation” and are a part of the Employer Branding Institute across 36 Asian countries.

As part of its value to put safety and the environment first, Orpic’s Liwa Plastics Industries Complex (LPIC) project has achieve

This major achievement is attributed to the strict safety culture in Orpic; particularly by following its 12 Safety Rules at all times and across all its plants and locations. Orpic has created a working environment in which all staff can work safely. Therefore, all Orpic employees and contractors have developed a sense of responsibility toward their own safety, their colleagues’ and the assets of the company; ensuring that all safety measures are followed and that everyone goes back home safely every day.

Orpic is committed to excellence in Health, Safety and Environmental (HSE) performance during all operations and activities. As a reputed and professional producer of petroleum and petrochemical products, attention to HSE and compliance to applicable laws is critical to Orpic’s business philosophy. Orpic gives the safety of its people, plants, environment and local communities the highest priority, over and above its production objectives.

As one of its values to aim for leading performance, Orpic has been awarded the perfect Project Finance Deal of the year (2016) from Trade and Export Finance Agency (TXF) for the LPIC project finance deal. The award ceremony was held at the Export and Project Finance Global Conference in Venice, Italy.

Nazar Al Lawati, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) - Orpic said on this occasion, "This award comes to reaffirm Orpic’s strong presence as one of the fast growing downstream companies in the region. The hard work, commitment and dedication that the team has showed to the financing of LPIC project is, without a doubt, a source of pride for Orpic.

The USD 6.4 billion Liwa Plastics Industries Complex (LPIC) project is a transformational project that will improve Orpic’s product mix and business model, double its profit and support the development of a downstream plastics industry in Oman. Taking advantage of the growing global market for plastics, it will create new business opportunities and employment in the Oman. In addition, the project is expected to increase the production of plastic products by more than one million tons, which will increase the company`s total production of plastics to 1.5 million tons of polyethylene and polypropylene.

TXF’s perfect 10s are awarded to the top 10 deals that are recognized for most innovative, market influencing transactions within trade, commodity, ECA/DFI-backed and project financing.

It is worth mentioning that Orpic also won the 2016 Project Finance International (PFI) Award as Middle East Petrochemical Deal of the Year in London, UK, as well as the MENA PetChems Deal of the Year by IJ Global Awards for the LPIC finance deal.

As part of its value to put safety and the environment first, Orpic’s Polypropylene Plant ( PP) has achieved an important safety milestone by completing 10 years without Lost Time Injury (LTI). The Polypropylene Plant manufactures seventeen different grades of homopolymer. Marketed under the brand name of "Luban", these grades cover all the broad spectrum applications of polypropylene homopolymer.

Orpic is committed to excellence in Health, Safety and Environmental (HSE) performance during all operations and activities. As a reputed and professional producer of petroleum and petrochemical products, attention to HSE and compliance to applicable laws is critical to Orpic’s business philosophy. Orpic gives the safety of its people, plants, environment and local communities the highest priority, over and above its production objectives.

In addition, the strict application of the 12 Orpic Safety Rules has been one of the success factors for this achievment. One of which is that everybody working at Orpic can go home safely everday.

It is noteworthy that the propylene is taken by the Polypropylene Plant. Polypropylene is a widely-used thermoplastic polymer, which forms the basis of many different products - everything from packaging to carpets to banknotes.

Orpic officially announces the appointment of Alexandre Clar as its General Manager, Treasurer with immediate effect. Alex is a French citizen and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering and a master degree on Management and Business Admistration (MBA).

Speaking on his appointment, Alexandre said, “Orpic’s impressive integration of refinery and plant operations, and its ambitious growth plans, has cemented Orpic as one of the industry’s most forward-thinking companies – with around 2600 employees working towards the common goal of an integrated Omani refining and petrochemicals business. I am certainly excited to be part of this journey and contribute to this common goal”.

It is worth mentioning that Alexandre is a seasoned Treasury executive who has lived in France, the U.S.A. and the Netherlands. Alexandre most recently served as Treasurer for Europe, Middle-East and Africa of PPG Industries Inc. (NYSE listed, Fortune 500), #1 worldwide Coatings manufacturer. Prior to that, he had been the Group Treasurer of a private equity owned (Bain Capital) company named SigmaKalon, a European leader in speciality chemicals. Earlier in his career, Alexandre performed several roles including Head of Group Corporate Funding in Suez/Gaz-de-France, one of the world leaders in Energy and Power.

Orpic officially announces the appointment of PS Moorthy as its General Manager, Technical Services with immediate effect. Moorthy is a Singaporean citizen with Bachelors’ in Engineering who comes with a 35 year track record in Petrochemicals, Utilities and Refining, 8 years of which are in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. For the past 12 years, Moorthy has been with Shell in several Reliability, Maintenance and Engineering roles.

Speaking on his appointment, Moorthy said, “I am excited to join such a progressive and forward thinking organization and I am confident that together we can work towards making Orpic a leading performer”.

Moorthy was the Engineering Manager of Shell Singapore which operates a complex of large, integrated assets - with an oil refinery (500 kbpd) that includes a Hydrocracker and a chemical complex which is capable to produce around a 1.2 mtpa of Ethylene. Moorthy has been intensely involved in the commissioning of this Steam Cracker in 2010 when he was the Maintenace Manager for the whole site.

Orpic organized a special Qaranqasho event for the children and Orpic employees in cooperation with Muscat Grand Mall (MGM) recently. The event reflects Orpic’s commitment towards serving Oman with pride and its continued support to contribute and support local social development initiatives in the community.

Orpic ambassador’s characters (Salam and Salama) appeared for the first time in public and interacted with the kids throughout the event. The Qaranqasho night witnessed a number of fun and interactive activities, wherein children took part and competed for prizes.

On this occasion, Shaima Al Aufi, Manager - Corporate Communications, Orpic commented, “We are committed at Orpic to support social events and contribute to preserving Omani tradition based on our value of serving Oman with pride. Orpic’s objective in this event was to draw a smile on the faces of the children and share this special moment with them and encourage their love for Omani tradition.”

Hassan Jaboub, General Manager, MGM said, “Muscat Grand Mall has always been a great spot for such celebrations, especially for children. We feel proud to be part of this amazing event which saw a large number of children participating and enjoying themselves. We are proud to partner with Orpic who are leaders in the refining and petrochemicals business in Oman and the region and actively contribute towards community engagement initiatives.”

Orpic would like to express its gratitude to Muscat Grand Mall, Partners and Orpic employees for all their efforts in making this event a success.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company – Orpic signed a partnership agreement with Oman Air in a step to enhance the In Country Value (ICV) across the Sultanate as well as to provide quality services to Orpic employees. This agreement will offer a number of promotional services and products specially designed to meet the business requirements for Orpic. 

Dr. Hilal Al Hinai, GM Corporate Support Services said on this occasion: “As part of our value to serve Oman with pride, we strive to ensure that Orpic promotes the In country Value initiatives by supporting Omani companies and at the same time to offer Orpic employees the best services to help them meet the business requirements. I trust that this agreement will boost cooperation between both companies as well as opening the door for more business opportunities with other companies too in the market”. 

Mahfodh bin Ali Al-Harthy, senior vice president, Sales, GCC, MENA and Africa, said, "We are committed to ensure the best possible quality, choice and convenience for our guests, and we work very closely with many companies and institutions to positively impact Oman`s economy’.  

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries - Orpic welcomed the fourth batch of students as part of its International Scholarship Programme. This initiative is part of Orpic’s continued support to develop and nurture the future leaders of Oman and to support the young students in North Al Batinah as well as the Sultanate in general.

Established in 2013, Orpic International Scholarship Programme entailed selecting students from North Al Batinah Governorate to benefit from the scholarships provided based on preset criteria’s. Once applications are received, screening of candidates was carried out by Takatuf Scholars Programme and selected students were offered international scholarships for two years in a preparatory school followed by another 4 years for Bachelor Degree in one of the leading universities around the world including the United Kingdom, Netherlands and the United States of America.

Nofal Al Saidi, General Manager – Human Resource Services, Orpic said, “We are proud to welcome the fourth batch to the programme which enhances the vital role of Orpic in building the capacities of young Omanis in collaboration with Takatuf Scholars Programme”.

The 10 Orpic international scholars will have the opportunity to complete their education, gain more useful skills for their academic and practical life and eventually build their career with Orpic upon successful completion of their international programme.

“Orpic believes in the importance of investing and developing Omani youth to create future leaders for the country”. Al Saidi added.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company - Orpic conducted a local recruitment campaign based on its ongoing business expansion as well as its approved manning plan for 2017. Conducted over two days, the recruitment drive which was held in Muscat generated tremendous response with around 200 prospective candidates met the basic requirements and were interviewed out of around 12,000 entries.

Orpic is undergoing a major transformation especially with the three strategic growth projects - Suhar Refinery Improvement project (SRIP), Muscat Suhar Product Pipeline (MSPP) Project and Liwa Plastics Industries Complex (LPIC). SRIP and MSPP are scheduled for commissioning during this year and LPIC by 2020. In view of the same, the recruitment campaign has been undertaken to not just create jobs but to provide a challenging and rewarding career to bright young talented minds.

Nofal Al Saidi, GM – Human Resource Services, said, “We are entering an exciting future wherein Orpic will soon transform into an international player in the global petrochemicals marketplace. At Orpic we continue require highly talented local applicants to bolster our existing teams and work with the largest projects. Our mission is to serve Oman with pride and people are our number one asset.

Orpic firmly believes in supporting the national In-Country Value (ICV) programme and hence believes in nurturing and developing Omanis to take on roles in line with the company’s long term strategic growth plan. Over time, Orpic has trained several Omanis to take on positions across different internal disciplines. Over the next few years, Orpic will aim at recruiting several competent national cadre to operate the current and upcoming plants.

As part of its value to put Safety and the Environment first, Orpic celebrated yesterday ‘World Day for Safety and Health at Work’ at its locations in Muscat and Suhar. Every year, 28th April marks the occasion of World Day for Safety and Health at Work which comes this year under the theme of ‘Decent work and Economic Growth’.

Ahmed Saleh Al Jahdhami, Chief Excecutive Officer – Orpic said on this occasion, “The World Day for Safety and Health at Work is a great opportunity for all Orpic employees and contractors to reinforce safety and health measures at all times while at work. This day is also a chance to emphasize on the fact that Optic’s corporate prime responsibility is to operate safely and reliably to protect its employees, plants, community and the environment”.

This year, Orpic organized a campaign for its employees that focuses on the need to pay attention to safety and to recognize and assess risks that may arise from daily work operations. The one day campaign featured a number of important topics to enhance employees knowledge on Health, Safety, Environment (HSE) and occupational Health, fire services department’s equipment’s and precaution measures and finally the 12 Orpic Safety rules.

One of Orpic’s core value is to put safety and the environment first as well as the safety of its people, plants, environment and local communities. Orpic strives to create and maintain a safe working environment with a clear target of zero harm.

The day was originally introduced by International Labour Organization (ILO) in 2003 to globally promote the prevention of occupational accidents, illness and diseases.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries - Orpic celebrated yesterday the International Labor Day 2017 at its various locations in Suhar, Muscat, Raysut and AL Jifnain. The world celebrates this day at the 1st of May every year to highlight the key role played by workers in contributing to the national economy of the country.

On this occasion, Orpic would like to express its appreciation to each and every worker across its operational areas and plants for all the loyalty, dedication and hard work to the development of the Sultanate in general and Orpic in particular.

Orpic takes this chance to congratulate all the hardworking labors in all fields of work in the Sultanate in order to build a promising, bright and new future for our beloved country, Oman.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company – Orpic celebrated the ground breaking of Its Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) of Liwa Plastics Industries Complex (LPIC) Project- Package 3 in Al Dahirah governorate, Wilayate of Ibri, Fahud. Orpic lays the foundation of LPIC USD 688 million EPC 3 which is the Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) Extraction Plant post the foundation of LPIC USD 2.8 billion EPC 1 Steam Cracker Unit and USD 888 million EPC 2 Polypropylene and Polyethylene Units last year in Suhar.

The ground breaking event was held under the auspices of H.E. Sultan bin Salim Al Habsi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Planning and Chairman of Orpic Board of Directors, in the presence of HE Sheikh the Governor of Al Dhahira. The celebration was attended by a number of Walies and Shuwra and State Council members and local Sheikhs from both Al Dhahira and Buraimi Governorates along with a number of officials and community members from the Wilayate of Ibri. Orpic CEO and top management as well as representatives from the contracting companies GS Engineering and Construction, and Mitsui & Co. Ltd were also present at the celebration.

Commenting on the occasion of the ground breaking ceremony, H.E. Sultan bin Salim Al Habsi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Planning and Chairman of Orpic Board of Directors said, “We are delighted to celebrate the ground breaking of the LPIC EPC 3 to build a state of the art Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) Extraction Plant. LPIC is a key project to develop the downstream industry in Oman in order to enhance the petrochemicals industry and keep pace with the growing demand for plastics in the Sultanate and the region”.

Ahmed Saleh Al Jahdhami, CEO, Orpic said “LPIC is the largest transformational project undertaken in Oman which will contribute to the GDP of the Sultanate by 2% and support creating a wide-ranging downstream industry in the Sultanate. Once commissioning in 2020, we are confident that LPIC will change Orpic’s product mix by extracting more value from natural gas and crude oil.

This Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) Extraction Plant will be linked via a pipeline with the project main plants in Suhar as part of an integrated complex that houses also Suhar Refinery, Aromatics Plant, and Polypropylene. Orpic operations then will be one of the most integrated refinery and petrochemical operations in the world and will enable the company to extract the maximum value from Oman’s oil and gas.”

As one of the biggest transformational projects in the Sultanate, the USD 6.4 billion project is the largest of the three strategic growth projects undertaken by Orpic namely Suhar Refinery Improvement Project (SRIP), Muscat- Suhar Pipeline (MSPP) and Al Jifnain Terminal to fulfil its vision of building an Omani integrated refining and petrochemical business. This project will be the first-of-its-kind in the Sultanate and will enable Oman take the downstream plastics industry to the next level.

Orpic in coordination with the office of HE Wali A’Seeb held informational session about Muscat Suhar Pipeline and Al Jifnain Terminal. The session was under the patronage of H.E. Sheikh Ibrahim Bin Yahya Al Rawahi the Wali of A’Seeb and attended by the honorable state Council members, Majliss A’Shura members, the Municipality Council members, the directors of governmental and private entities, Sheikhs and dignitaries of A’Seeb. Introduction information about Muscat-Suhar Product Pipeline project and Al Jifnain Terminal was given to them followed by open discussion session.

These meetings consider as a good opportunity to get various opinions and to take constructive suggestions on aspects of interest to the society. Orpic is seeking to reach out to the community in order to consolidate the principle of transparency and to promote positive and active participation with different sectors of the society. In addition, the engagement aims to build a constructive dialogue with stakeholders to inform them of the company operations and efforts to improve performance and to familiarize them with the current and future plans and projects.

This meeting comes on the realization of the importance of maintaining good relations with the local community and to introduce the project and the latest developments of interest to the community and the Sultanate.

Orpic will celebrate the ground breaking of its Liwa Plastics Industries Complex (LPIC) Project – Engineering and Procurement and Construction (EPC) 3 next Thursday, 27th April, 2017 which will take place in the Wilayate of Ibri, Fahud.

The event will be held under the patronage of H.E. Sultan bin Salim Al Habsi, Secretary-General, Supreme Council for Planning and Orpic Chairman in the presence of a number of officials and community members from the Wilayate of Ibri.

The Engineering and Procurement and Construction (EPC) 3 brings for the first time to Oman the Natural Gas Extraction Plant, worth USD 688 million, which is a consortium of two corporations namely: GS Engineering and Construction, and Mitsui & Co. Ltd.

LPIC will firmly reinforce Orpic as a recognized player in the international petrochemicals marketplace – enabling Oman, for the first time, to produce polyethylene, the form of plastic that rates highest in terms of global demand and increased the current production of polypropylene.

LPIC is the largest of the three strategic growth projects undertaken by Orpic to fulfil its vision of building an Omani integrated refining and petrochemical business. This project will be the first-of-its-kind in the Sultanate and will enable Oman to take the downstream plastics industry to the next level.

Muscat-Suhar Pipeline project (MSPP) has achieved an important safety milestone by recording 10 million human hours without Lost Time Injury (LTI). This project is one of the most important strategic and investment growth projects for your company in its location in Al-Jifnain.

Andres Suarez, General Manager – Orpic Logistics, Orpic, said, “Safety is our number one priority. We have a diligent and experienced team who is committed to ensuring the construction and future operation of this project is achieved to its highest standards. We believe that all incidents can be avoided. We have a wide range of tools to help us but it all starts with our attention and commitment. We believe that tomorrow is our reward for working safely today.”

The Muscat-Suhar pipeline project (MSPP) planned to be 100% completed by Q4, 2017. This project will deliver numerous social, economic and environmental benefits, including: providing job opportunities for Omanis and improving road safety, reducing pollution by reducing truck traffic by 70%; and support of the Muscat International Airport expansion. In addition, many more flow-on benefits on the economic and strategic for the Sultanate.

Additionally, pre-commissioning activities have started at AL Jifnain terminal. The progress of the Muscat International Airport terminal and pipeline works is 68%. Overall Project is 92% completed and commercial operation is expected to start in AL Jifnain Terminal by Q3, 2017.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company (Orpic) organized its Annual Blood Donation Campaign under the title of “Share a Smile Give Blood" at Mina Al Fahal in cooperation with Bawshar Blood Bank.

The Campaign comes in accordance with one of Orpic’s core values in serving Oman with pride and as part of Orpic Voluntary Plan 2017, which aims to raise awareness on the life-saving importance of donating blood. The Campaign witnessed a wide participation from Orpic employees who heartily came to participate in this noble initiative.

Dr. Hilal Al HINAI, General Manager Corporate Support Services, said: “We always at Orpic look forward to underpin a solid ground of engagement with our community by participating and taking role in such noble events that aims at spreading the social awareness about how blood donation is crucial particularly when it comes to be a lifesaving issue. We are proud of the continuing cooperation between Orpic and the Blood Bank during the last years which has resulted in organizing many blood donation campaigns in all Orpic premises either in Mina Al Fahel or in Suhar.”

Worth mentioning that Orpic is organizing this campaign for the fifth time in sequence since 2013. The last year’s campaign 2016 witnessed a wide participation of around 600 blood donors while the company received recognition from the Ministry of Health for its support and contribution in blood donation campaigns.

Orpic’s Joint Venture with Sohar Aluminium in Al Batinah International School (ABIS) announces that the 2017 enrollment for Grade 1, Grade 4 and Grade 5  Orpic Assisted Scholarships is now open. The Orpic Assisted Scholarship Program will allow able and motivated students living in the North Al Batinah Governorate to have a world class education. It will provide a full range of scholarships (ranging from 60% to a maximum of 100%) for the duration of their child’s school life at ABIS. Having already enrolled 23 students who recieved ABIS Orpic Assisted Scholarships in the past three years, with the opening of the Global Section Grade 4 and Grade 5 classes in 2017, Orpic will expand its scholarships to an additional 15 to 19 for the 2017 enrollment year. 

ABIS continues to pave the way supporting quality education in the region. The Global Section opened in August 2016 providing high quality international education that ABIS is known for. The Global Section’s increased emphasis on English, Arabic and Islamic studies, with 23 students already enrolled, is aimed to help children grow into Oman`s leaders of tomorrow.

Nofal Al Saidi, General Manager, Human Resource Services, Orpic, said, “Our joint venture partnership with ABIS aims to provide the best quality education to children in the Al Batinah region. ABIS is only 1 of the 3 International Baccalaureate (IB) authorized schools in Oman and the only one to offer the prestigious IB Diploma in North Al Batinah Governorate. What’s more, the school actively encourages children to achieve their goals and supports them by being active partners in their educational journey which is consistent with one of our values of bringing the potential of our people alive.”

Neil Tomalin, Head of School, ABIS, added, “ABIS believes in holistic development of our students in line with the IB Leaner Profile. We seek to develop not only academically able but also ethically and morally sound, technologically capable, caring and internationally minded individuals. Our mission at ABIS is to recognize and motivate students to achieve their potential and empower them to be life-long learners.”

ABIS admission for the 2017/2018 academic year is currently open and parents of potential students can apply online by visiting the website www.abisoman.com. The last date for admission is 27th April, 2017.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company - Orpic participated at the second Oman Downstream Exhibition and Conference 2017 as lead host in collaboration with the Ministry of Oil and Gas and Oman Oil company. The event inaugurated by H.E Saud bin Hilal Al Busaidi Minister of State and Governor of Muscat in the presence of H.E Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, Undersecretary of the ministry of Oil and Gas and Ahmed bin Saleh Al Jahdhami CEO of Orpic.

Taking place at Oman Convention and Exhibition Center, Orpic part at the 3 day exhibition and conference comes to support creating a platform to share experiences and best practices among the participating companies as well as to explore potential business opportunities in the fields of Refining, Petrochemicals, Oil and Gas industry across in the Sultanate.

Ahmed bin Saleh Al Jahdhami – Orpic CEO gave a key note speech at the opening of the conference under the title: Developing Oman’s downstream; assessing current and future projects. The key note address touched upon Orpic’s current and future growth projects and their additional value to further maximize the use of Oman’s crude oil across the refining and petrochemical projects. One of the highlighted projects was the Suhar Refinery Improvement Project (SRIP) which is an investment of USD 2.7 bln and will boost the current production of fuels, naphtha and propylene by 70%. SRIP will meet the needs of continually growing fuel consumption in the country, which has increased by 10% annually over the past 5 years.

Liwa Plastics Industries Complex (LPIC) project was also highlighted at the key note address as one of the baggiest transformational projects across the Sultanate which is an investment of USD 6.4 bln. This project will transform Orpic’s product mix and business model, double company profit, create new business opportunities, generate significant employment opportunities and support the development of a downstream plastics industry in Oman by increasing the production capacity of Orpic to more than 1 million tonnes, giving Orpic a total of 1.4 million tonnes of polyethylene and polypropylene annually. Additionally LPIC will contribute to the GDP of the Sultanate by 2%. At the end of his key note speech, Orpic CEO talked about the future opportunities to further improve the growth of the downstream industry in the Sultanate.

The second Oman Downstream Exhibition and Conference 2017 will also feature the potential refining and petrochemical opportunities raising from Al Duqm, Suhar and Muscat and ways of maximizing the value of Oman’s crude oil to support the current and future growth project to better help the Sultanate in its efforts to diversify the economy.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company - Orpic gold sponsored and participated at the 4th International Plastics, Rubber, Petrochemicals, Printing and Packaging Industry Exhibition; OmanPlast 2017’ which took place at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, Muscat. The exhibition attracted a large number of local and international plastics convertors, machinery manufactures and end-users. The 4th OmanPlast 2017 was opened under the patronage of Hilal bin Hamad Al Hasani, CEO, Public Establishment for Industrial Estates (PEIE), the exhibition which had more than 100 exhibitors provided excellent trade and business opportunities to both exhibitors and visitors.

Gilles Rochas, GM – Polymer Marketing, Orpic, stated: “By taking part at the 4th OmanPlast 2017, we are supporting the local and international plastics industry to unlock the new business opportunities and further cooperation within Oman. We are delighted to have participated in this event and explored with our customers the latest trends in the plastics industry”.

At the 4th OmanPlast, visitors were introduced to the latest technology and machinery for plastics processing. It also offered a platform in which experts from the industry met and exchanged ideas on latest developments.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries - Orpic takes part at the Career and Training Opportunities Fair which is currently underway at the Sulatan Qaboos University (SQU), Grand Hall and is held between the period of 14th – 16th March 2017. The opening ceremony was held under the auspicious of H.E. H.E. Engineer Mohsin bin Mohammed bin Ali Al Shaikh, Chairman of Muscat Municipality and in the presence of a number of government officials and representatives from the private sector.

Trained around 249 students from different universities and colleges with Technical and non-technical specialization last year, Orpic’s participation in the Career and Training Opportunities Fair 2017 comes to support and develop young Omanis to take on leadership roles and contribute to the Sultanate’s success. Through the fair, Orpic will be targeting university and college graduates and will also offer internship opportunities to fresh graduates.

Recently, Orpic celebrated the graduation of 197 Omani trainees at a gala ceremony in Suhar. These graduates are part of Orpic’s comprehensive training programme which Orpic undertakes on a yearly basis. The students graduated under different disciplines such as Bachelor’s Degree, Instrument Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Chemical Engineers, Engineering; Internal Audit, Procurement, Engineering (Diploma holders); Field operators, Instrument technicians, Electrical technicians, Mechanical technicians, Document controllers, HSE analysts, etc.

Speaking on the occasion Nofal Al Saidi, GM – Human Resource Services, Orpic, stated, “Orpic has an ambitious plan to expand its business through its investments in Suhar Refinery Improvement Project, Liwa Plastics Industries Complex, Muscat Suhar Product Pipeline with a total cost of approximately USD 9bn which will be commissioned over a couple of years. This means that our need for both new and skilled manpower will increase tremendously. As part of our commitment to support the national drive, we will be training and developing young Omanis to take on various roles. Their development will also be supported by mentors and function heads who will actively seek to nurture and guide these young minds into a bright future whilst bringing the potential of our people alive.”

Driven by one of its core values to serve Oman with pride, Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company - Orpic’s has tied up with the Italian-based Tecnimont Company and other government entities from both the Sultanate of Oman and Italy to organize the first of its kind Oman and Italy Business Forum 2017.

The one day forum was held in the presence of H.E. Dr. Ali bin Masoud al Sunaidy, Minister of Commerce and Industry and H.E. Hon. Ivan Scalfarotto, Italian Deputy Minister of Economic Development, International Trade & Investment Attraction who is currently leading a delegation of more than 80 Italian companies in the fields of Oil & Gas, Infrastructure, Logistics and Renewable Energies.

The Oman Italy Business Forum 2017 aims at creating an open platform for Italian and Omani companies in different sectors such as Oil and Gas as well as construction to share expertise, knowledge and know-how in creating joint venture concept among local suppliers. In addition, The Forum offers insights and data of current and future potential opportunities for Italian and Omani companies to work together. Additionally, the event gives a great exposure to Omani Small and Medium Enterprises’ (SMEs) to improve their business capabilities through a designed technical program with Italian firms.

The Forum also features the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC2) package currently under the Italian-based company Tecnimont for the Liwa Plastic Industries Complex project (LPIC). This giant project has opened the doors to benefit from the Italian expertise in local suppliers business development, investment as well as Research and Development.

It’s worth mentioning that this Business Forum marks the third ICV initiative by Orpic to share business opportunities with Omani local suppliers and SMEs.

As part of its value to put Safety and the Environment first, Orpic began its Waste Free Environment (WFE) Campaign yesterday in the Wilayate of Al Suwaiq, north Al Batinah governorate. WFE promotes recycling and encourages a more responsible attitude toward litter disposal and the need for the community to respond to environmental issues. Each clean-up has a strong educational component and stresses how we can give waste, in particular plastics, a useful second life. The WFE campaign is organized for the fourth time in the Sultanate and is held from the period of 26th to 28th February, 2017.

Orpic employees, together with members of the local community, including school children, gathered in unity to clean three villages in the Al Suwaiq region and learn more about the importance of eco-efficient waste management. This Year, Orpic provides a unique opportunity for children to present their environmental projects, inspire each other with their environmental work, become active environmental citizens.

“A long with WFE campaign, such initiatives represent a great importance to Orpic in order to drive environmental awareness among the society due to the ancient human-environment relationship in every aspect of our daily life. Hence, it is vital that individuals and particularly school students realize the need to recycle and learn more about ways to better recycle environmental waste. This will contribute to solve many issues our environment is facing”. Says Dr. Hilal Al Hinai, General Manager Corporate Support Services, Orpic.

It is worth mentioning that the Waste Free Environment day is an initiative of the Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA). The campaign could manage Last year to collect over 647.619 tons of waste by more than 700 volunteers across the region.

The Ministry of Oil and Gas (MOG) officially announces the launch of a new grade of gasoline named “MOGAS 91” and replace the existing fuel names ‘Regular’ to MOGAS 91and ‘Super’ to MOGAS 95 respectively. The new decision will be effective from 1st November 2016. This decision comes in conjunction with Oman Oil Refineries and Petrochemical Industries SAOC – Orpic.

The local oil-marketing companies have also reached an agreement with the government for the introduction of MOGAS 91 across the country. Speaking at the launch, His Excellency Salim Al Aufi, Undersecretary – Ministry of Oil & Gas, stated, “In the Sultanate, we have been using ‘Regular’ gasoline for several decades. In 2010, ORPC (now Orpic) conducted a study which revealed that 70 to 85% of vehicles in Oman are designed to use 91 RON gasoline which at the time was not marketed. Hence, MOG decided to produce this new grade which suits most cars driven in Oman.”

Musab Al Mahruqi, CEO, Orpic, added, “In our efforts at being a leading performer, Orpic aims to fulfil the Sultanate’s demand for an affordable energy source with better combustion. MOGAS 91 is similar in all characteristics to the existing Regular / Super with the only change being the RON which is 91. The main benefit for the consumer is to use the right fuel.”

To further help educate consumers on the suitable type of fuel for their vehicles, Orpic has created a tool (https://www.orpic.om/Gasoline). You can follow some simple steps to select the gasoline most suited for your car. When you are on the website, select your preferred language, your car type, its make, year of manufacture and the most suitable gasoline for your car will appear.

Explaining the working of the website, Musab informed, “Although the website is convenient and educational, we strongly recommend that you check your car manual to obtain the right information.”

Under the auspices of H.E. Sultan bin Salim Al Habsi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Planning and Chairman of Orpic Board of Directors, Orpic celebrated the ground breaking of Liwa Plastics Industries Complex (LPIC) Project. The USD 6.5 billion project, LPIC is the largest of the three strategic growth projects undertaken by Orpic to fulfil its vision of building an Omani integrated refining and petrochemical business. This project will be the first-of-its-kind in the Sultanate and will enable Oman support a downstream plastics industry.

Commenting on the ground breaking, H.E. Sultan bin Salim Al Habsi, Chairman of Orpic Board of Directors said, “We are delighted to celebrate the ground breaking of an important and a vital project which is needed to keep up with the development in the Sultanate. This project will contribute to enhance the petrochemicals industry in the Sultanate and keep pace with the growing demand for plastics in the Sultanate and the region. We hope that this project will contribute to the improvement of environmental aspects and support the creation of a downstream plastics industry in Oman.”

Musab Al Mahruqi, CEO, Orpic explained that LPIC is the largest project undertaken in Oman and the largest ever in the region to date. Explaining the significance of this project, he said, “To achieve our vision of building an Omani integrated refining and petrochemical business we are proud of, we must support opportunities to grow our people, our business and our capacity to meet the needs of Oman and international markets.”

“We are confident that once Plant commissioning is completed in 2020, LPIC will change Orpic’s product mix by extracting more value from natural gas and crude oil. Being located in Suhar as part of an integrated complex that houses also Suhar Refinery, Aromatics Plant, Polypropylene and Steam Cracker Unit for LPIC, Orpic operations will be one of the most integrated refinery and petrochemical operations in the world and will enable the company to extract the maximum value from Oman’s oil and gas,” he continued.

Last year, Orpic awarded four contracts for Engineering, Procurement and Contracting (EPC) packages worth USD 4.5 Billion for Liwa Plastics Industries Complex (LPIC) Project to:

•  EPC 1 (Steam Cracker and Utilities): CB&I and CTCI Corporation Joint Venture

•  EPC 2 (Plastics units): Tecnimont S.p.A

•  EPC 3 (NGL Extraction): GS Engineering and Construction and Mitsui & Co. Ltd Joint Venture

•  EPC 4 (NGL Pipeline): Punj Lloyd Ltd

LPIC plays a strategically important role in the integration of Orpic’s refinery and petrochemical operations. LPIC will enable Orpic to utilize the existing products of the refineries and Aromatic plant which are currently being exported as feedstock for LPIC in addition to Natural Gas Liquids leading to producing high value products that will help Orpic double its profits. In addition to creating SME opportunities, this project will deliver numerous social, economic and environmental benefits including job growth, contribute to Oman’s GDP by roughly 2% and support the downstream plastics industry.

LPIC is one of three strategic growth projects being delivered by Orpic namely Suhar Refinery Improvement Project (SRIP - 2016), Muscat- Suhar Pipeline (MSPP - 2017) and Al Jifnain Terminal. These projects will cement Orpic’s position as a market leader in Oman, the Middle East and the international oil and gas sector.

Orpic officially announces the appointment of Christiaan van der Wouden as its Chief Operating Officer (COO) with immediate effect.

With a Master’s degree in Applied Physics of Delft University in The Netherlands - complemented later with an M.B.A. degree - Christiaan, who is a Dutch citizen, set out to build a career in Shell centered around Refining: Process Engineer in The Netherlands, Advanced Process Control & Optimization Engineer in Stanlow Refinery in the U.K. and Assistant Production Unit Manager in Shell Pernis Rotterdam Refinery.

After having performed as Supply & Operations Manager in Shell’s Dominican Republic Refinery (a JV with the Government) since 1995, Christiaan was appointed its General Manager in 1998, until 2000. He then became General Manager of Shell’s Petit Couronne Refinery in France until mid-2004, which achieved 1st quartile performances in operational availability, non-energy costs, routine and turnaround Solomon indexes.

Christiaan came to Qatar in 2010 as Contract & Procurement Manager for Shell Qatar. In 2013, he was appointed Chief Operating Officer (COO) for Shell-QP’s Al Kaarana petrochemicals, before transferring fully into QP in 2015.

Speaking on his appointment, Christiaan said, “Orpic is one of Oman’s largest companies and is one of the most rapidly growing businesses in the Middle East oil industry. It is an ambitious company that aims for excellence in all aspects of its operations and wants to expand its business into the future. I am excited to join such a progressive and forward thinking organization and I am confident together we can work towards making Orpic a leading performer.”

Orpic officially announces the appointment of its Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Having joined GlassPoint earlier this year, Nazar Al Lawati has returned to his position as CFO of Orpic.

Nazar Al Lawati who joins Orpic as its Chief Financial Officer, has more than 20 years’ experience in the Gulf region, in oil and gas and consumer sectors. An Omani national, Nazar started his career in 1995 as a Petroleum Engineer with Petroleum Development Oman (PDO). In 1998, he joined Unilever as a finance management trainee and progressed to various finance management regional roles in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

In 2004, Nazar returned to the oil and gas sector – joining Shell Upstream to lead the implementation of SOX 404 in the Middle East. During his time with Shell, he was responsible for governance risk and assurance in the region, and was later appointed as Finance Manager for Shell’s Upstream business in Abu Dhabi and Pakistan.

Returning to Oman in 2011, he joined Orpic as Manager of Financial Services, before being promoted to the role of Chief Financial Officer the following year. His breadth of technical skills, coupled with his strategic counsel and insights, provide a unique and valuable perspective.

Talking about his appointment, he says, “Orpic has always been a fantastic place to work in. During my earlier tenure with them, I led the company in securing major debts. This included raising USD3.8 bn project finance for Orpic’s Liwa Plastics Industries Complex Project, USD 2.8 billion for the Suhar Refinery Improvement Project and USD 900 million in corporate debt. Orpic is at the threshold of major growth and I am excited to be part of this journey.”

Nazar holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, from University of Sussex, UK. He is also a Chartered Management Accountant, with the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, UK.

As part of its commitment to support Sultanate’s nationalization plan and offer opportunities to Omani Small & Medium Enterprises (SME’s), Orpic conducted recently its first In-Country Value (ICV) Roadshow in Suhar under the patronage of H.E Eng. Ahmed bin Hassan Al Dheeb, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. This event was conducted in association with CB&I and CTCI Corporation, who have been awarded the engineering, procurement and contracting (EPC) award for Steam Cracker and Utilities for Liwa plastics industries Complex (LPIC).

The day-long event discussed Orpic as well as CB&I and CTCI Corporation’s investment impact on Oman’s economy through the LPIC project. Speaking at the event, Dr. Hilal Al Hinai, General Manager – Corporate Support Services, Orpic, said, “As one of the transformational projects being undertaken by Orpic, we are committed to serving Oman with pride. At Orpic, we support SME’s directly via business operations, ring fence certain tenders specifically for Omani SME’s, which in turn will impact Oman’s GDP through the payment of profits and salaries, and employment opportunities for individuals.”

This is one of the 4 ICV roadshows that Orpic will conduct in the coming months, which will support and offer Omani SME’s a chance to partner with the LPIC project.

Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company) recently kicked-off a new Talent Development Program in cooperation with GP Strategies. Orpic, alongside GP Strategies will work to develop leadership and management skills to prepare high-potential employees for senior leadership roles.

Created by GP Strategies’ team, the program has been designed to closely align with Orpic’s vision and will be delivered by a team of highly-experienced facilitators. The program will initially see two groups of 20 Omani participants each undertake a bespoke, internationally-benchmarked course that will lead to a GP Strategies certification, alongside an accredited award from the UK’s Chartered Management Institute (CMI).

Ali Al Mahruqi, Manager - Training Centre, Orpic, commented, “Orpic believes in bringing the potential of its people alive in order to ensure that their skills and abilities are further enhanced to meet Orpic’s standards. We firmly believe that through this program we can nurture and develop future leaders who will spearhead Oman’s progress and success.”

Participants will engage in a customised series of modules focused on aspects such as “The Foundations of Leadership” and “Managing Performance”. They will develop skills in areas such as communications, coaching and strategy, and will consider their personal leadership style through a unique blend of training approach. Modules are closely mapped to the renowned “Leading People+” program, an approach that is widely recognized by global companies.

“Orpic is currently undergoing transformation with three strategic growth projects (Suhar Refinery Improvement Project, Muscat Suhar Product Pipeline, Liwa Plastics Industries Complex) which will enable not just more opportunities but will firmly place Orpic as a leading player in the global refining and petrochemicals sector. It will also help attract, retain and develop local talent.” Al Mahruqi added.

The initial project kicked-off at Orpic’s office in Suhar and provided participants an overview of what to expect from this cutting-edge program, as well as setting initial pre-program work and leadership skills assessment. The two initial groups will commence the program in the next few weeks – the first on 31st July, and the second on 7th August - with courses running until the end of September. Further groups of participants will be starting through 2016.

Orpic organized a special Qaranqasho event for the children of Child Care Centre and Orpic employees in cooperation with Muscat Grand Mall (MGM) recently. The event reflects Orpic’s commitment towards serving Oman with pride and its continued support to the community. The Qaranqasho event celebrated a number of fun and interactive activities, wherein children took part and competed for prizes.

On this occasion, Shaima Al Aufi, Manager - Corporate Communications, Orpic commented, “We are committed at Orpic to support social events and contribute to preserving Omani tradition based on our value of serving Oman with pride. Orpic’s objective in this event was to draw a smile on the faces of the children at Child Care Centre and share this special moment with them and encourage their love for Omani tradition.”

Hassan Jaboub, General Manager, MGM said, “Muscat Grand Mall has always been a great spot for such celebrations, especially for children. We feel proud to be part of this amazing event which saw a large number of children participating and enjoying themselves. We are proud to partner with Orpic who are leaders in the refining and petrochemicals business in Oman and the region and actively contribute towards community engagement initiatives.”

Orpic employees distributed gift bags, Orpic-branded balloons and sweets to children. Orpic would like to express its gratitude to Muscat Grand Mall, Child Care Centre and Orpic employees for all their efforts in making this event a success.

As a responsible corporate, Orpic firmly believes in bringing the potential of its people alive, by offering training and development opportunities for employees to grow within Orpic. As part of its on-going efforts, Orpic started the ItQan program in order to create a competent workforce to run its plants reliably and meet its future growth plans.

The program aims to build a functional system to expand employee competencies in order to improve operations and maximize the plants’ utilization. The project targeted around 870 employees. At a first step, 6 positions were identified in Operations, wherein employees were evaluated and their competencies would be nurtured and developed.

It is worth noting that recently ItQan held celebrations awarding employees for their efforts in meeting its requirements and successfully implementing project processes.

Kamil Al Shanfari, General Manager, Suhar Operations, Orpic, explained, “When we started the ItQan program, our objective was to identify gaps and assess training needs in line with the employee’s career path. After intensive sessions with employees, we are happy to note that we engaged with more than 700 employees, certified 124 employees for foundation, 128 employees taking on more complex jobs and a learning culture actively introduced.”

He further added, “Not only that, we have on-going engagement and awareness sessions with clearly defined roles and responsibilities. This in turn has led employees to take on more ownership and commitment which is crucial in making Orpic a leading performer in its sector.”

Orpic underwent a formal integration of its four plants (Suhar Refinery, Mina Al Fahal Refinery, Aromatics Plant and Polypropylene Plant) into one integrated refinery and petrochemical company in June 2011. These Plants were integrated from three companies - Oman Refineries and Petrochemicals Company LLC (ORPC), Aromatics Oman LLC (AOL) and Oman Polypropylene (OPP). 



Since then, Orpic has gone onto becoming one of the fastest growing refining & petrochemicals business not just in Oman but also in the region. Orpic’s impressive integration of refinery and plant operations, and its ambitious growth plans, has cemented it as one of the industry’s most forward-thinking companies – with around 2400 employees working towards the common goal of an integrated Omani refining and petrochemicals business of which the Sultanate is proud.

Shortly after the integration, Orpic embarked upon major diversification and a USD 9 billion expansion plan, which saw the evolution of three strategic growth projects (Suhar Refinery Improvement Project [2016], Muscat Suhar Product Pipeline [2017] and Liwa Plastics Industries Complex [2020]).  This has been undertaken to ensure full utilization of the growth project outcomes and their smooth and synchronized integration into Orpic. The program targeted all aspects of operational and non-operational processes, policies, procedures, people and tools and comprised two facets: Developmental Readiness Plan and specific focus groups which aimed at identifying, highlighting and solving critical challenges before commissioning and their amalgamation with Orpic.

Upon commissioning, over the next few years, these projects will triple Orpic’s asset value to around USD 12 billion and increase profitability by around 4 times. The growth will also double the number of employees in Orpic and increase the company’s contribution to gross domestic product (GDP) from 6% in 2014 to potentially 8% in 2020.  

Orpic has created a new way of working - RITE (Reliability, Integration, Talent Management and EBIDTA). These are the company’s guiding principles that help Orpic achieve its targets. Orpic firmly believes that, “These are the ways we choose to work, the ways we choose to achieve success.”  

Through this integration, Orpic seeks to identify any additional opportunities or advantages that result from the integration with existing business in its mission to be a leading performer.

In keeping with its promise to support and develop Omani Small & Medium Enterprises (SME’s) and as part of its strong commitment to maximize the In Country Value (ICV), Orpic recently signed an important project contract with Al Batina International Engineering & Services LLC for Warehouse Facilities Improvement at its premises in Suhar Industrial Port.




One of the important multi-million contracts signed with a local SME based out of North Al Batinah region, this contract aptly projects Orpic’s promise in developing national capabilities. Orpic believes in creating opportunities for local SME’s by ring fencing tenders as well as through its main contractors by identifying suitable scope of work for SME’S.

Ibrahim Al Kalbani, Manager – Procurement, Contracting & Inventory (PCI), Orpic said, “From all the bids received, Al Batina International Engineering & Services LLC, was not just technically qualified but also offered the most competitive commercial bid. Orpic always encourages the participation of local qualified SME’ because we firmly believe in the In-Country Value proposition. Through this partnership, we believe that the company will be able to create employment for Omanis, provide goods and services by Omani suppliers in Oman which in turn will add value to Oman. Awarding of this contract reaffirms our pledge to support and develop local SMEs in line with the national agenda.”

Abdul Qader Al Farsi, Owner, Al Batina International Engineering & Services LLC, said, “We are indeed very happy that Orpic gave us an opportunity to work on this important project. As an Omani company, we are proud to partner with Orpic who are leaders in refining & petrochemical segment. Orpic is one of the few companies that provides opportunities to Omani SME’s, which in turn will benefit not just businesses but the Oman economy in general. We will strive our best to fulfill our promise and we look forward to a long partnership with them.”

Ibrahim Al Maamari, Manager – In-Country Value (ICV) added, “An important element of our endeavor is to make sure that we offer every local company an opportunity to work with us. In fact, we ring fence certain tenders specifically for local contractors. Our aim is to impact Oman’s GDP positively and offer employment opportunities for individuals. We will continue to support local SME’s and promote a culture of excellence among them through mentoring and development.”

Orpic’s Joint Venture with Suhar Aluminium in Al Batinah International School (ABIS) has paved way  for supporting quality education in the region. This joint venture - will allow for the expansion of ABIS from its current capacity of 200 to 1,000 by 2021/22. In addition to the International Community Section, a new Global Section will open in August 2016 and will provide high quality international education that ABIS is known for. The Global Section will have an increased emphasis on English, Arabic and Islamic studies with the aim of helping children grow into Oman`s leaders of tomorrow.

Aimed at Grade 1 and Grade 2, the Orpic Assisted Scholarship Program will allow able and motivated students living in the North Al Batinah Governorate to have a world class education. It will provide a full range of scholarships (from 60% to a maximum of 100%) for the duration of their school life at ABIS. Having already enrolled seven (7) ABIS Orpic Assisted Scholarships in the past two years, with the opening of the Global Section, Orpic will expand scholarships to an additional 15 to 19 per year for the next 10 years.

Nofal Al Saidi, General Manager, Human Resource Services, Orpic, said, “Our joint venture partnership with ABIS aims to provide the best quality education to children in the Al Batinah region. ABIS is only 1 of the 3 International Baccalaureate (IB) authorized schools in Oman and the only one to offer the prestigious IB Diploma in North Al Batinah Governorate. What’s more, the school actively encourages children to achieve their goals and supports them by being active partners in their educational journey which is consistent with one of our values of bringing the potential of our people alive.”

Neil Tomalin, Head of School, ABIS, added, “ABIS believes in holistic development of our students in line with the IB Leaner Profile. We seek to develop not only academically able but also ethically and morally sound, technologically capable, caring and internationally minded individuals. Our mission at ABIS is to recognize and motivate students to achieve their potential and empower them to be life-long learners.”

ABIS admission for the 2016/2017 academic year is currently open and parents of potential students can apply online by visiting the website www.abisoman.com. The last date for admission is 25th May 2016.

One of Orpic’s endeavor is to develop and nurture the future leaders of Oman and hence it launched the Orpic International Scholarship Program. This year, Orpic welcomed the third batch of students. This initiative is part of Orpic’s continued support to young students in North Al Batinah as well as the Sultanate in general.

The programme entailed selecting students from North Al Batinah Governorate to benefit from the scholarships provided based on preset criteria’s. Once applications are received, screening of candidates was carried out by Takatuf Scholars Programme and selected students were offered international scholarships for two years in a preparatory school followed by another 4 years for Bachelor Degree in one of the leading universities around the world.





Ahmed Al Wahaibi, Acting General Manager – Human Resource Services, Orpic said, “Orpic plays a vital role in building the capacities of young Omanis in collaboration with Takatuf Scholars Programme. Orpic believes in the importance of investing and developing Omani youth to create future leaders for the country. We firmly believe that program will benefit students by providing an opportunity to complete their education and gain more useful skills for their academic and practical life.”

The 10 Orpic international scholars will have the opportunity to build their career with Orpic upon successful completion of their international programme.

Orpic recently conducted a massive local recruitment campaign based on its ongoing business expansion as well as its approved manning plan for 2016. Conducted over two days, the recruitment drive which was held in Muscat generated tremendous response with over 217 prospective candidates being interviewed.

Orpic is undergoing a major transformation especially with the three strategic growth projects - Suhar Refinery Improvement project (SRIP), Muscat Suhar Product Pipeline (MSPP) and Liwa Plastics Industries Complex (LPIC), which are scheduled for commissioning over the next four years. In view of the same, the recruitment campaign has been undertaken to not just create jobs but to provide a challenging and rewarding career to bright young talented minds.

Orpic firmly believes in supporting the national In-Country Value programme and hence believes in nurturing and developing Omanis to take on roles in line with the company’s long term strategic growth plan. Over time, Orpic has trained several Omanis to take on positions across different internal disciplines. Over the next few years, Orpic will aim at recruiting several competent national cadre to operate the current and upcoming plants.

Nofal Al Saidi, GM – Human Resource Services, said, “We are entering an exciting future wherein Orpic will soon transform into an international player in the global petrochemicals marketplace. Now is the time we require highly talented applicants to bolster our existing teams and work with the largest projects. Our mission is to serve Oman with pride and people are our number one asset. We are always on the lookout for passionate people who will grow with our business.”

Orpic’s Suhar Refinery & Polypropylene Plant is currently undergoing a major planned turnaround / maintenance activity. This planned turnaround is undertaken every 3 years to carry out normal equipment cleaning and inspection and also to carry out major modifications to key items of equipments. This time the scope is larger as Orpic wants to make modifications to the existing plant to allow a full integration of the new units, being constructed under the Suhar Refinery Improvement Project (SRIP), due for commissioning later in the year.

Explaining the need for the planned shutdown, Ralph Clim, Acting COO, Orpic, stated, “Suhar Refinery maintains Orpic’s daily production reliably as it produces approx. 60% of our requirements. This is very crucial for us as in the near future it will be linked to SRIP as part of our expansion plans. This shutdown is being used to execute a number of maintenance activities in order to improve the operational performance of Orpic’s Plants. It is by far the most complex one undertaken yet, but we are happy with the progress and hope to deliver on time, on budget and as promised.”

The turnaround has surpassed 1,500,000 man hours with four first aid cases reported and no Lost Time Injuries (LTI’s). The turnaround commenced on 23 February 2016 and is still scheduled to be completed in the 61 day schedule. One of Orpic’s key mission is to ensure that its operations run safely and smoothly at all time.

Following Orpic’s December 2015 announcement of the successful award of engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contracts to deliver its landmark Liwa Plastics Industries Project (LPIC), Orpic has closed LPIC’s USD 3.8 billion project financing facility for its USD 6.5 billion project.

Commenting on the significance of LPIC’s project financing, Orpic CEO Musab Al Mahruqi said, “Orpic’s LPIC project is part of our long-term growth strategy to firmly enter into the petrochemical market. This financing facility, which is the largest ever project financing transaction to be achieved in the Sultanate of Oman, is an indication of the level of confidence and support Orpic has from key institutions and stakeholders.”

LPIC financing has been supported by Export Credit Agencies representing the governments of Italy (SACE Cdp Group), the Netherlands (Atradius Dutch State Business), Korea (K-Exim and K-Sure), the United Kingdom (UKEF) and Germany (Euler Hermes), along with 19 international, regional and local commercial lenders.

Mandated lead arrangers and arrangers of the LPIC project financing were: Arab Banking Corporation (B.S.C.), Bank Dhofar S.A.O.G., Bank Muscat S.A.O.G., The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, Ltd., BNP Paribas Fortis SA/NV, Cassa depositi e prestiti s.p.a., Crédit Industriel et Commercial, Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, Export Development Canada, HSBC Bank plc, ING Bank (a branch of ING-DIBA AG), JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., KfW IPEX-Bank GmbH, The Korea Development Bank, NATIXIS, The Saudi National Commercial Bank, Société Générale, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation and UniCredit S.P.A.

Mr. Al Mahruqi added “LPIC represents a robust and resilient project to lenders – satisfying the highest international environmental and social requirements, and provides the appropriate frameworks to address each of the technical, commercial and legal challenges which customarily arise on major world-scale petrochemical projects. The Company has been able to successfully secure financing amid challenging global financial and economic conditions and with limited government guarantees which reflects the trust that international financing institutions have placed on the project and the investment climate within the Sultanate.”

Orpic completed the financing of LPIC on a highly accelerated timetable, which was designed to coincide with the scheduled commencement of works on the project construction packages. Commissioning for the LPIC Project is scheduled to be completed in 2020.

Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries) recently celebrated the graduation of 320 Omani trainees at a gala ceremony in Suhar. These graduates are part of Orpic’s comprehensive training programme which Orpic undertakes on a yearly basis. The event also celebrated the completion of training program for 23 employees which was conducted in the Republic of India.

The event, which was held under the auspices of H.E. Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Abdullah Al-Bakri, Ministry of Manpower, felicitated employees from different disciplines such as Engineering (Bachelor’s), Instrument Engineers , Electrical Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Chemical Engineers. Engineering; Internal Audit, Procurement, Engineering (Diploma); Field operators, Instrument technicians, Electrical technicians, Mechanical technicians, Document controllers, HSE analysts, etc. The ceremony was also presided by senior government officials, dignitaries, CEO of Orpic and the Executive team.

The students underwent an intense 4 month classroom training and 8 months on-the-job training. For diploma holders, the schedule included 6 months classroom training and 6 months on-the-job training.

Orpic firmly believes in supporting the national In-Country Value programme and hence believes in nurturing and developing young Omanis to take on roles in line with the company’s long term strategic growth plan. Since the programme commenced in 2011, Orpic has trained more than 1000 young Omanis to take on positions across different internal disciplines. Over the next years, the Orpic training program will aim at training more than 500 new graduates to join a competent national cadre to operate the current and upcoming plants.

Speaking on the occasion Nofal Al Saidi, GM – Human Resource Services, Orpic, stated, “Orpic has an ambitious plan to expand its business through its investments in Suhar Refinery Improvement Project, Liwa Plastics Industries Complex, Muscat Suhar Product Pipeline with a total cost of approximately USD 9bn which will be commissioned over the next three years. This means that our need for both new and skilled manpower will increase tremendously. As part of our commitment to support the national drive, we have be training and developing young Omanis to take on various roles. Their development will also be supported by mentors and function heads who will actively seek to nurture and guide these young minds into a bright future whilst bring the potential of our people alive.”

Orpic has launched various external and internal initiatives in human resources development. One of the internal initiatives is Arryiada programme which aims to develop leadership skills of managers and team leaders; 320 employees participated in this programme. This program is currently in its 3rd year.

Additionally, the skills development initiative (ItQan), is an internal programme that targets around 870 of the company’s employees in the technical functions of Mina Al Fahal and Suhar Refineries, and Aromatics Plants. The programme aims to establish and activate a system to develop the skills of engineers, operators and technicians who work in different locations. In addition to these programmes, the company has launched the educational development program, which aims to aid employees in completing their studies and gaining new skills and contacts in their different fields.

Some of the external initiatives of Orpic in this field include Orpic International Scholarships programme running in its 4th year and aims to sponsor 50 students from Al Batinah North Governorate to study in some of the most prestigious academic institutions globally. In addition, the company is currently working in cooperation with Suhar Aluminium to expand the capacity of the Al Batinah International School from 200 students to 1,000 students by the end of 2018.

ENDS

About Orpic:

Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company SAOC) is one of Oman’s largest companies and one of the most rapidly growing businesses in the Middle East oil industry. Orpic’s Refineries in Suhar and Muscat, as well as the Aromatics and Polypropylene Plants in Suhar, provide fuel, chemicals, plastics, and other petroleum products, to Oman and to the world. To continue to meet the needs of Oman, and international markets, Orpic is undertaking three strategic growth projects [Muscat Suhar Product Pipeline (MSPP), Suhar Refinery Improvement Project (SRIP) and Liwa Plastics Industries Complex (LPIC)], in line with the company’s strategy to add value to the Oil and Gas resources of Oman. For more information, please visit www.orpic.om

One of Orpic’s key mission is to ensure that its operations run safely and smoothly at all times. With this in mind, Orpic’s Suhar Refinery and Polypropylene Plant will undergo a major planned turnaround / maintenance activity from 23 February - 23 April 2016. This shutdown will be used to execute a number of maintenance activities in order to improve the operational performance of Orpic’s Plants.

A large Turn Around is being undertaken every three years. This time the scope will be larger as Orpic wants to make modifications to the existing plant to allow a full integration of the new units, being constructed under the Suhar Refinery Improvement Project, which is due for commissioning later in the year.

Explaining the complexity of the shutdown, an Orpic representative said, “We analyzed and reviewed the need for this Turn Around. A detailed worklist was created and every Orpic employee has been assigned with specific tasks. This Turn Around will witness a large revamp of the Resid Catalytic Cracker unit which is the core of the existing refinery. However, we would like to reiterate that there will be no disruption to the nation’s supply for fuel.”

Orpic International Scholars Programme was launched in 2013 and so far 20 students have been granted scholarships to UK, the Netherlands, USA and Canada. This initiative is part of Orpic’s continued support to young students in North Al Batinah region as well as the Sultanate in general.

The programme calls for students from North Al Batinah Governorate to benefit from the scholarships provided based on preset criteria’s. Once applications are received, screening of candidates is carried out by Takatuf Scholars Programme and selected students are offered international scholarships for two years in a preparatory school followed by another 3 – 4 years for Bachelor Degree in one of the leading universities around the world.

Currently, seven students are studying at Fulford and St. Michaels University School in Canada, two students at United World College based in Maastricht in The Netherlands, seven students at Gordonstoun and Millfield schools in UK and four students at The Hun School, United World College and Brewster Academy in The United States of America. Nine students are expected to complete their studies in summer 2016 and will go on to join one of the leading international universities to obtain university degree.

Nofal Al Saidi, GM - HR Services, Orpic said “Orpic plays a vital role in building the capacities of young Omanis in collaboration with Takatuf Scholars Programme. Orpic believes in the importance of investing and developing Omani youth to create future leaders for the country. We are currently in the process of attracting a new batch for Orpic International Scholars to join their colleagues from the previous groups and benefit from the opportunity provided to complete their education and gain more useful skills for their academic and practical life.”

Commenting on the programme, Sara Talib Al Ajmi, one of recipients of the Orpic International Scholars programme and currently studying at United World College, Maastricht said, “I’m grateful to Orpic for providing me with an opportunity to study abroad and experience new culture, a challenge that will definitely contribute positively in shaping my skills. I look forward to continue my studies and return back to Oman to contribute to the national development by working for Orpic.”

Orpic International Scholars programme is a true example of how Orpic invests in building the capacities of Omani youth as the programme aims to create future leaders who can contribute to the economic development of the Sultanate.

Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industry Company SAOC) recently appointed Mohammed bin Salim Al Kaabi as Financial Controller. This appointment represents Orpic’s commitment to provide a strong career path to Omani nationals working in the oil & gas industry.

The appointment was made following a review of Orpic’s organizational model to ensure it has the necessary structure and talent in place to capitalize on current and future opportunities within Oman.





Mohammed Al Kaabi is an accounting graduate with over 15 years’ experience in Investments, Finance, Accounts & Projects. He has held many positions within the organization during his tenure across various financial functions. Due to his proven skills and capabilities in managing departments and leading people; as well as organizing and managing all account related activities and managing projects, he has been appointed as Financial Controller.

On behalf of Orpic management, we would like to wish Mohammed all the best in his new role and full success, knowing that his contribution is key to our current and future delivery. As Orpic firmly expands in both size and complexity, the Talent Board shall continue to ensure that talented leaders mobilize their capabilities to the fullest through stretch exposures, developmental rotations and new appointments.

Orpic recently sponsored and participated in the ‘3rd Oman Plast 2016’ held at Oman International Exhibition Centre. The exhibition drew large gathering from the international plastics, rubber, chemicals and printing and packaging industry.

Held under the patronage of Hilal bin Hamad Al Hasani, CEO, Public Establishment for Industrial Estates (PEIE), the exhibition which had more than 100 exhibitors provided excellent trade and business opportunities to both exhibitors and visitors.

Dr Hilal Al Hinai, GM – Corporate Support Services, Orpic, stated, “Orpic believes in supporting initiatives that are unique and provide further value to our business. At the 3rd Oman Plast in Muscat, visitors were introduced to the latest technology and machinery for the production of plastics, rubber, and packaging and petro chemicals. It also offered a platform in which experts from the industry met and exchanged ideas on latest developments. We are happy to have participated in this event.”

Orpic recently sponsored and participated in the ‘Global Summit on Process Safety’ organized by CCPS (Center of Chemical Process Safety) & American Institute of Chemical Engineers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The Global Summit, themed “CCPS Process Safety Vision 20/20,” drew more than 350 delegates from more than 75 organizations including oil & gas, chemical and pharmaceutical sectors.

The summit was inaugurated by YB Dato’ Sri Richard Riot Anak Jaem, Honorary Minister of Human Resources, Malaysia. The event proved to be an excellent platform that brought together experts from around the world to determine a more sustainable future.

Livio Accattatis, General Manager - Technical Services, Orpic presented the achievements made by Orpic in the field of Process Safety. He said that besides focusing on production targets, Orpic’s corporate prime responsibility is to operate safely and reliably. He said, “Orpic recognizes the inherent risks of our processes and to deal effectively with such risks is one of our key strategic priorities. Orpic has implemented a fit-for-purpose Process Safety Management System and continuously strives for a reliable and robust risk management programme by applying good design, engineering, operation and maintenance practices.”

Orpic also participated in the exhibition organized as part of the summit and showcased its existing and upcoming projects. The summit not only proved to be an excellent platform to showcase Orpic presence as one of the key players in Oil and Gas business and their achievements in Process Safety, but it also allowed Orpic employees to interact with and learn from global leaders in Process Safety.

On December 17, 2015, Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company SAOC) celebrating the signing of more than 15 agreements to build, operate and finance the Liwa Plastic Industries Complex. 

Present at the signing ceremony of one of Oman’s largest projects financed in the downstream oil & gas industry were Government Ministers, Undersecretaries, Honorable Members of the Council of Oman, Orpic’s Board of Directors, other high ranking officials and several members of the local community of Suhar and Liwa. 

The Formal agreements were signed by His Excellency Sultan bin Salim Al Habsi, the Chairman, CEO of Orpic – Musab Al Mahruqi along with the CEO’s and senior officials of awarded companies. Moreover, more than 20 local and international bank and financial institutions and export credit agency committed to provide USD 3.8 Billion. 

Orpic celebrated the signing in the presence of senior managers of leading export Credit Agencies, Banking Institutions and Contractors.Orpic awarded four contracts for Engineering, Procurement and Contracting (EPC) packages worth USD 4.5 Billion for Liwa Plastics Industries Complex (LPIC) Project to: 

EPC 1 (Steam Cracker and Utilities): CB&I and CTCI Corporation Joint Venture
EPC 2 (Plastics units): Technimont S. p.A
EPC 3 (NGL Extraction): GS Engineering and Construction and Mitsui & Co. Ltd Joint Venture

The high profile event, which was held at Muscat Intercontinental Hotel, was celebrated with traditional performances rejoicing Oman and its rich diversity. In his opening speech, His Excellency, Sultan bin Salim Al Habsi, Chairman, Orpic, stated, “This project will enhance the In-Country Value of products and will provide the necessary materials to grow a downstream sector in the Sultanate, with a focus on the plastics industry. LPIC will also enhance the contribution of the industrial sector towards domestic production to 9% by 2020 and will create more than 13,000 new employment opportunities for Omanis.”

Musab Al Mahruqi, CEO, Orpic, explained that the successful proponents were selected due to the strength of their technical and financial bids. He said, “Today marks an important milestone in the history for Orpic and LPIC with the signing of the EPC contracts and finance agreements to cover majority of the finance required for this project.

We are confident that once plant commissioning is completed in 2019, LPIC will change Orpic’s product mix by extracting more value from natural gas and crude oil. Being located in Suhar as part of an integrated complex that houses also Suhar Refinery, Aromatics Plant, Polypropylene and Steam Cracker Unit for LPIC, Orpic operations will be one of the most integrated refinery and petrochemical operations in the world and will enable the company to extract the maximum value from Oman’s oil and gas.” 

Al Mahruqi further added, “Market support and confidence in LPIC has been overwhelming – from the investment support we have received from financial institutions, to the interest we received from EPC contractors which reflects the trust that different stakeholders put on this project and the solid reputation that Orpic enjoys.” 

LPIC plays a strategically important role in the integration of Orpic’s refinery and petrochemical operations.  LPIC will enable Orpic to utilize the existing products of the refineries and Aromatic plant which are currently being exported as feedstock for LPIC in addition to Natural Gas Liquids leading to producing high value products that will help Orpic double its profits,” Al Mahruqi concluded.

LPIC is one of three strategic growth projects being delivered by Orpic namely Suhar Refinery Improvement Project (SRIP), Muscat- Suhar Pipeline (MSPP) and Al Jifnain Terminal. These projects will  cement Orpic’s position as a market leader in Oman, the Middle East and the international oil and gas sector.  

Orpic is set to conduct its 4th Annual Supplier Symposium on December 7 at Majan Hall, Suhar. The annual event will witness participation of all Orpic Suppliers across the Sultanate and the world. The primary objective of this annual gathering is to provide the Suppliers an opportunity to interact with Orpic key personnel and learn about the various opportunities available within the different functions and projects. It will also help strengthen bonds between Orpic and its Suppliers.

The full day symposium will have seminars and opportunities to engage with Orpic key personnel across various functions and projects. It will also actively address any concerns that Suppliers may have about the registration process or any other aspect of the business.

JSRS registration is mandatory for all Orpic Suppliers. All Suppliers are encouraged to register via www.businessgateways.com

As a leading organization, Orpic places emphasis on transparent ethical business model across its areas of operations in an endeavor to serve Oman with pride.

Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company SAOC) has finalized negotiations with preferred proponents of four Engineering, Procurement and Contracting (EPC) packages, tendered earlier this year. The four EPC packages, totalled USD 4.5 bn, will be completed in four years with plant commissioning expected in 2019.  

Orpic will be awarding the following four EPC packages after finalisation of the project financing which is planned before year end.

-       EPC 1 (Steam Cracker and Utilities): CB&I and CTCI Corporation Joint Venture
-       EPC 2 (Plastics units): Tecnimont SPA
-       EPC 3 (NGL Extraction): GS Engineering and Construction and Mitsui & Co. Ltd Joint Venture
-       EPC 4 (NGL Pipeline): Punj Lloyd Ltd

 
Musab Al Mahruqi, CEO of Orpic, is anticipating signing of the EPC contracts and financing agreements by the end of the year.

“The Liwa Plastics Industries Complex Project is not only a nationally significant industrial project, it will be the largest project in the downstream oil and gas industry in Oman.

“We are concluding discussions with Export Credit Agencies, commercial banks and other relevant authorities and we expect to finalize the project funding plan by the end of the year enabling us to award the respective EPC contracts,” Mr Al Mahruqi concluded.

With the global market for plastics increasing, the Liwa Plastics Industries Complex will firmly position Orpic and Oman as a recognized player in the international petrochemicals marketplace – enabling Oman, for the first time, to produce polyethylene, the form of plastic that rates highest in terms of global demand and increased the current production of polypropylene.

National Day celebrates the many achievements of our beloved leader; His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said (May Allah protect and grant him with long life and good health), and also focuses on the achievements across all Omani communities and sectors of the economy, since the commencement of our blessed Renaissance march in 1970.

On its part, Orpic celebrated the National Day with excitement and pride across its offices – Muscat, Suhar and Raysut.

To mark this blessed occasion, Musab Al Mahruqi, CEO, said, “I would like to congratulate everyone on the 45th National Day and pray to Allah to bless our beloved leader His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said with good health and long life. For Orpic, this day has an added significance as it is the day our MAF Refinery was officially inaugurated by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said in 1982. Since then, we have been fulfilling our promise to provide energy required for social and economic development in Oman, which is now being enhanced further through our three major growth projects; namely Suhar Refinery Improvement Project (SRIP), Muscat Suhar Product Pipeline (MSPP) and Liwa Plastics Industries Complex (LPIC).”

Orpic’s Aromatics Plant in Suhar recently completed a major milestone of completing 6 years of safe and successful operations without Lost Time Injury (LTI). Over 6 years ago, Para-Xylene was first declared ‘On-Spec’ and diverted to day tank, which was another major milestone that was achieved. Both these events mark a major milestone in the Aromatics Plant journey.

As a leading organization, Orpic places emphasis on safety – be it their people, plant or operations. The company works with a clear target to zero harm across all its operations proactively identifies, analyses and mitigates any impact that may occur across its areas of operations.

Raphael De Loenen, Chief Operation Officer, said, “We are extremely happy and proud of our achievement. The operations, maintenance & technical services teams at the Aromatics Plant are closely aligned with the HSE rules and practices, so our combined strengths form a formidable barrier in avoiding incidents. In order to assist and emphasize safety, a wide range of tools have been developed over the years: permit to work, internal/external audits, drills, training/coaching followed by evaluation, adhering to standard operating procedures, developing process safety awareness & culture to name a few.”

He further went onto say, “This could not have been possible without the contribution of all those who have been serving for Aromatics Plant both directly & indirectly all these years. We hope to maintain this momentum.”

Orpic felicitated 336 employees at its annual Long Service Awards event. The high profile event was held to honour employees who have been working and have actively contributed to the success of the company. The awards were given to employees who have completed 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 years respectively at Al Bustan Palace Hotel.

The event was held under the auspices of H.E. Sultan Bin Salim Al-Habsi, Secretary- General of the Supreme Council for Planning, & Chairman of Orpic. It was also attended by board members, government officials and senior management of Orpic. The day’s proceedings began with a welcome address by Engineer Nofal Al Saidi, General Manager – Human Resource Services, Orpic. In his address, he thanked His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said for leading this blessed nation towards growth and prosperity and wished His Majesty long life and good health.

Engineer Nofal stated, “As a responsible organisation, we aim to attract, develop and retain best-in-class talent. We are committed to creating jobs for Omanis while offering opportunities for all our employees to develop fulfilling careers. To be the partner of choice to current and prospective employees, we have created efficient operational structures, ensuring the right people are in the right positions.”

Engineer Nofal reiterated that the company provides a challenging and rewarding career to its employees and awarding the long serving employees was a testament to that. In fact 53% of leadership positions in Orpic are occupied by Omanis as Heads of Function, Departments’ Managers, Team Leaders and Advisors. Omanization has reached 74%, as the company has attracted more than 305 new Omani and expatriate skilled & experienced staff in order to enhance Orpic’s growth plan.

A significant investment worth noting is the fact that around 40 high potential Omani employees have been chosen to be trained and nurtured as Orpic’s future leaders. All the programs and initiatives contribute towards providing a safe environment for our people to develop their skills and achieve their best in building an integrated national company that we are all proud of.

Orpic celebrated Omani Women’s Day with a special get together at the Millennium Resort in Mussannah. The event was attended by all women employees of Orpic and special invitees from the community. The high profile event retained a festive atmosphere where women employees extended the hand of friendship and Omani hospitality to fellow colleagues and invitees.

The celebration included a workshop on ‘Secret to your success’ by Abeer Al Juma, motivational speaker, from Kuwait. During her workshop, she emphasized that it was important to seek success but whilst maintaining integrity and balance. This was followed by a surprise highlight wherein Orpic women employees who have performed ‘Above & Beyond’ their call of duty were felicitated.

Everyone present showered love and gratitude to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said for supporting Omani women in all spheres of life. They also expressed appreciation for designating a day in honour of Omani women and the enviable position that women enjoy in this country, including representation in key government positions.

Zakariya Al Maghdhari, Acting GM, Corporate Support Services, said, “At Orpic, we firmly believe that the development of our blessed nation significantly center’s on the role played by women. We consider that education, training and equal opportunities are crucial to women’s empowerment. Women are assuming key responsibilities and senior positions within our organisation and their contributions are adding to our success.”

The workshop was followed by a panel discussion on ‘Supporting fellow women’ which was moderated by Amal Al Zadjali, Chairman, Awladna Campaign – Road Safety. The panel discussed at length how women need to support each other in a largely make dominated world and how this support needs to go beyond the workspace and include emotional and psychological wellbeing as well.

Dr Khaltham Al Zadjali, Media Specialist, Authority of Radio & Television gave a talk on ‘Finding Inner Peace’. She was of the view that due to modern day living and the stresses that come with it - striking a balance between family and work, is even more crucial for women.

Shaima Al Aufi, Manager – Corporate Communications & Chairman, Women’s Leadership Committee, stated, “Almost 20% of our employees are women, with a formidable representation in technical as well as non-technical positions. Our ‘Women’s Leadership Committee’ also continues to play an important role in ensuring the continued success of women in the workplace. As an organisation, we are committed to promoting a suitable work-life balance as well as a sense of bonhomie among fellow colleagues.”

Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company) had named Tecnimont, JV GS Engineering & Construction Corp. / Mitsui & Co. Ltd and Punj Loyd as the preferred bidders for three of four packages for its Liwa Plastics Industries Complex (LPIC) project. The three packages include the Natural Gas Extraction Unit in Fahud, the NGL pipeline between Fahud and Suhar and the three plastics plants in Suhar. Orpic intends to sign the final Engineering Procurement & Construction “EPC” contracts after finalizing the agreements and receiving Final Investment Decision on the project but before year end. In the coming days, Orpic will be announcing the preferred bidder for the largest package (Package 1) which includes the steamcracker and associated utilities in Suhar.

The USD 5.2 bn project will transform LPIC’s presence in the international petrochemicals marketplace as well as support the development of a downstream plastics industry in the Sultanate. It will also create new business opportunities, and generate significant employment opportunities.

11 strong bidders submitted financial tenders for the 3 considered packages and after a thorough evaluation process the preferred bidders were presented to Orpic’s Major Tender Board. The Tender Board studied the detailed bids and subsequently approved the names of preferred bidders. In the next 2 weeks, a detailed discussion will be held with the preferred bidders in order to finalize the contracts. The final package for the steam cracker will be announced soon.

Musab Al Mahruqi, CEO, Orpic, stated, “We are very pleased to receive such high calibre financial tenders for EPC works on this regionally significant project. LPIC will have a substantial flow on effect on the national economy, and we are looking forward to partnering with leading proponents to deliver a best in-class result.”

He further added, “Following commissioning, plastics production is forecast to have increased by more than 1mn tonnes; giving Orpic a total of 1.4mn tonnes of polyethylene and polypropylene production. The operation will be one of the best integrated refinery and petrochemical facility combinations in the world and will be able to achieve the maximum value add for Oman’s hydrocarbon molecule.”

All relevant environmental permits have been obtained from the Ministry of Environment & Climate Affairs, and all technical and commercial terms & conditions for supply of utilities, such as electricity and cool water, have been finalized with Majees and Majan. Gas Supply Agreements, are being finalized with the Ministry of Finance and Oil & Gas.

Land agreements with Suhar industrial Port Company, Suhar Free Zone and Fahud are scheduled for signing with the Ministry of Housing.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industry Company (Orpic) recently appointed two Omanis to senior positions within the organization. The appointments represent Orpic’s commitment to provide a strong career path to Omani nationals working in the oil & gas industry.

The appointments were made following a review of Orpic’s organisational model to ensure it has the necessary structure and talent in place to capitalise on current and future opportunities within Oman. Kamil Al Shanfari has been appointed as General Manager – Suhar Refinery and Hamed Al Ajmi has been appointed as General Manager – Aromatics.

	Having graduated with a B.Sc in Chemical Engineering, Kamil Al Shanfari has more than 16 years’ experience in the oil & gas industries. His experience is mainly in Refinery and Petrochemical sectors. He has held many positions within the organization during his tenure in both functions - technical services and operations. Kamil was appointed as General Manager of Aromatics in 2013 and due to his contributions; he is now the General Manager of Suhar Refinery.
	Hamed Al Ajmi has over 16 years’ experience in the oil & gas industry, with extensive experience in the areas of refinery operations, technical services and competency enhancement programmes. Hamed’s contributions in operation improvements were well recognized by the company. Before assuming responsibilities in his new role, Hamed was leading the residue cracking team at Suhar operations. He has a B.Sc degree in Chemical Engineering. Hamed is appointed as General Manager of Aromatics Operations.

Musab Al Mahrouqi, CEO, Orpic said, “The promotion of these employees recognises their contributions to the company during their tenures. The company is proud to offer the most fulfilling career opportunities for national talent and these appointments are further testament to it. I am delighted that we have attracted such a high calibre of Omani business leaders to these strategic roles. These are important appointments that will add the necessary leadership, expertise & depth and will help us build business synergies, drive transformation and deliver our strategic objectives.”

Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company) is one of Oman’s largest companies and is one of the most rapidly growing businesses in the Middle East oil industry. Orpic’s refineries in Suhar and Muscat, as well as the aromatics and polypropylene production plants in Suhar, provide fuel, chemicals, plastics, and other petroleum products, to Oman and to the world. To continue to meet the needs of Oman, and international markets, Orpic is undertaking three strategic growth projects, in line with the company’s strategy to add value to the oil and gas molecules produced in Oman.

With more than 6,500 people on site, working to a 2016 completion date, Orpic is pleased to acknowledge achieving 15 million man-hours without lost time injury on its Suhar Refinery Improvement Project.
The milestone comes just days following the installation of Oman’s first Hydrocracker Reactor, which is the heaviest and one of the most critical pieces of equipment on the project.
“Safety is our number one priority.  We have a diligent and experienced team who are committed to ensuring the construction and future operation of this project is achieved to the highest standard,” Mr Musab Al Mahruqi, CEO of Orpic, said.
Orpic’s Suhar Refinery Improvement Project is a multibillion-dollar capital investment for Orpic, which is being delivered in response to the need to upgrade Orpic’s refining capability in order to further maximize the value of Omani crude oil, and to ensure that the Sultanate’s increasing demand for fuel will be met
 
In addition to the immediate commercial benefits that the Suhar Refinery Improvement Project brings to the business, it will also have a social economic impact on other areas.  
“Enhancing In-Country Value is an integral part of our growth strategy and substantial benefits are anticipated.  300 direct, permanent jobs will be created, and around 2,400 Omani contract roles will be offered over the project lifetime. 
“The project is also anticipated to result in local business participation, with an estimated 900 indirect jobs to be generated by the multiplier effect the Suhar Refinery Improvement Project will have on the local economy,” Al Mahruqi added.
Orpic is undertaking three major growth projects aimed at improving production and further diversifying Orpic’s product mix.  Orpic’s growth projects will position Orpic as a market leader in Oman, the Middle East and the international oil and gas sector.
Known as the Suhar Refinery Improvement Project, the Muscat-Suhar Product Pipeline, and the Liwa Plastics Industries Complex, Orpic’s growth projects are expected to generate significant opportunities for Orpic and Oman.

Reaching a height of 42 metres, and weighing approximately 950 metric tonnes, Orpic’s newly installed hydrocracker reactor is one of the key elements of Orpic`s Suhar Refinery Improvement Project (SRIP).

Extensive preparatory works were underway two months prior to the installation of the hydrocracker, with actual installation transpiring in a single day with the assistance of two cranes, and a heavy lift team comprising 36 personnel.
 
The hydrocracker, which is a two-stafe unit, is one of the most critical units for Orpic`s future Suhar Refinery operations.  Operated at a pressure of 160 Bar, and temperature of around 400 degrees celsius, the design of unit includes built-in features that enable a quick response to various emergency situations.
 
This will enable Orpic to meet increasing demand of petroleum products in the Sultanate, as well as reducing refinery emissions and improving refinery margins. The hydrocracker unit will result in increased distillates production complying with Euro V specifications.
 
Operation of the hydrocracker unit requires a high level of skill; therefore specialist training, by a process licenser and operator, is being provided to Orpic.

Bidding is now underway for four (4) Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) bid packages of Orpic’s Liwa Plastics Industries Complex, which consists of a polymers plant in Suhar’s industrial area, an NGL extraction plant in Fahud, a steam cracker plant, and a 300-KM pipeline from Fahud to Suhar.

So far, Orpic has received a positive response with five (5) technical bids submitted for the polymers plant and three (3) technical bids for the NGL extraction package.  A number of bids are also expected on the steam cracker and pipeline packages by mid-August.

“It’s positive to see so many strong technical bids submitted from several notable proponents and JV partners.  This project will be one of the largest in the region, and we expect to be making a significant impact on the local economy through EPC works alone,” said Mr Musab Al Mahruqi, CEO of Orpic.

Orpic is on track to conclude evaluation of bids for all the packages early October 2015, with the Final Investment decision to be decided by the end of October 2015.  Once bids are submitted for the remaining two (2) packages, they will be evaluated in October 2015 and awarded soon after.

“We are currently in discussion with eight export credit agency’s regarding project due diligence, and the terms and conditions of financing this project, and we plan to launch requests for proposals to commercial banks over the coming month,” Al Mahruqi added.

Orpic is aiming to raise USD4 billion for this project, and targeting to sign Financing Agreements concurrently with the award of the EPC contracts.

The project has already obtained environmental permits from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs, and has been granted gas allocation, and is finalizing the Gas Supply Agreements, with the Ministry of Gas.

Land agreements with Suhar industrial Port Company and Suhar Free Zone are scheduled for signing this month, with the land agreement for Fahud also scheduled for signing with the Ministry of Housing.

All technical and commercial terms and conditions for supply of utilities, such as electricity and cooling water, have been finalized with Majees and Majan.

Orpic’s Liwa Plastics Industries Complex is not only expected to generate significant financial returns to our shareholders, but will also further diversify Orpic’s product mix and intensify its downstream business operations – supporting the company’s firm entry into the petrochemicals market.  This is a very exciting period for Orpic,” Al Mahruqi concluded.

As a part of Orpic’s efforts to raise awareness of its operations, Orpic representatives are participating in meetings and visits in different regions and governorates across the Sultanate.

In addition to sharing information about the business, and the company’s journey since its inception, during the recent Dhofar roadshow information was shared on Orpic’s current projects, future plans, and the significant In-Country Value generated through employment opportunities and local investment.  The registration process for tendering companies, which was announced on Orpic’s website, was also explained in more detail.

Orpic plans to visit many local communities during the coming months in order to continue raising awareness about the company, who has been adding value to Oman’s natural resources, and providing the local market with fuel, since 1982.

The Company’s three key corporate themes “Achieve, Enhance and Grow” focus on achieving growth and success in the three major strategic projects that are currently being implemented, including: Suhar Refinery Improvement Project (SRIP); Liwa Plastic Industries Complex (LPIC) and Muscat-Suhar Product Pipeline and Al Jifnain Terminal project (MSPP).

Combined, all projects will contribute towards creating significant opportunities for Orpic, which in turn create significant benefits to the Sultanate and its people.

Orpic acknowledges recent media regarding Samsung Engineering approaching the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) to arbitrate on a matter regarding Orpic’s Suhar Refinery Improvement Project.  In regards to this matter, Orpic has acted in accordance with applicable laws and confirms that it  has proceeded with legal action against Samsung Engineering for failure to meet their obligations under the tender submitted for the above-mentioned project – resulting in damages being sustained by Orpic.  As the matter is subject to litigious processes, no further comment can be made until the outcome of the matter is finalized.

Orpic, Oman’s national refinery and petrochemical company, today commemorated the successful closure of an OMR350 million Corporate Loan syndicated facility at its Mina Al Fahal refinery site.  This is the first corporate debt raising activity conducted by Orpic at the holding company, which was met with overwhelming confidence and support from local banks.
Orpic CFO, Nazar Al-Lawati, explained that this agreement comes at the right time for Orpic, given the company’s strengthening balance sheet and pipeline of projects to support its growth strategy.
“Orpic was established with a vision to build an Omani integrated refining and petrochemical business we are proud of. 

“The syndicated facility, which is supported by a consortium comprising of prominent locally-based banks, is a powerful indication of Orpic’s financial strength and the certainty we have been able to generate in the market as a credit worthy entity.”
With its refineries in Suhar and Muscat, as well as the aromatics and polypropylene production plants in Suhar, Orpic currently provide fuels, chemicals and feedstock to domestic and international markets. 

The company’s current growth projects being undertaken, including Suhar Refinery Improvement Project, Muscat Suhar Product Pipeline, and the upcoming Liwa Plastics Industries Complex, are not only expected to generate significant value but will further diversify Orpic’s product mix and intensify its downstream business operations – supporting the company’s firm entry into the petrochemicals market.

“We are pursuing several projects that will cement Orpic’s position as a market leader in Oman, the Middle East and the international oil and gas sector.  By building a business model that enables us to extract value from the full value-chain, we are able to operate a robust business that is able to quickly respond to changing market conditions,” Mr. Al- Lawati added.

The syndicated facility was arranged by bank muscat SAOG, together with a consortium including: Bank Dhofar; National Bank of Oman; Bank Suhar; Qatar National Bank, Oman; Ahli Bank Oman; and Oman Arab Bank. 

Senior representatives from each financial institution joined Orpic CEO, Musab Al Mahruqi, to officially sign the facility agreement.

“As the only refining and petrochemical business in Oman, we have mandate to supply and meet Oman’s fuel requirements, now and into the future.  We are grateful to be granted this corporate facility, which will go a long way towards meeting corporate requirements and realising our company vision,” Mr. Al- Lawati concluded.

About Orpic
Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company) was created through the integration of Oman Refineries and Petrochemicals Company LLC (ORPC), Aromatics Oman LLC (AOL) and Oman Polypropylene (OPP).
Today, Orpic is one of Oman’s largest companies and is one of the most rapidly growing businesses in the Middle East oil industry.  Orpic’s refineries in Suhar and Muscat, as well as the aromatics and polypropylene production plants in Suhar, provide fuels, chemicals and feedstock to Oman and to the world.

Orpic currently employees around 2000 people – more than 70% of which are Omanis.  By 2018, orpic’s workforce is set to double, with three major growth projects expanding Orpic’s refinery and plant operations, including: Suhar Refinery Improvement Project, Liwa Plastics Industries Complex, and Muscat-Suhar Product Pipeline.
Orpic is focused on building a culture where safety and environment come first, where the potential of its people is brought alive, where leading performance is always pursued and where Oman is served with pride.

Orpic operates a dedicated Visitor Centre, Community Hotline and uses other methods of communication to maintain an open and direct dialogue with the community – one of the company’s most valued stakeholders.

Under the auspices of H.E. Sultan bin Salim Al Habsi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Planning and Chairman of Orpic Board of Directors, Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum industries Company) celebrated ground breaking of Muscat – Suhar Pipeline Project (MSPP) for the transportation of oil products and Al Jifnain terminal, which shall connect both refineries in Suhar and Mena al Fahal via a 290 km pipeline. In addition to commencement of excavation works in the future location of Al Jifnain terminal. This project will be the first of its kind in the Sultanate and its value is estimated to be 320$ Mn. This project will enable Orpic to reduce its reliance on above-ground methods of transportation for oil products.

Commenting on the groundbreaking, H.E. Sultan bin Salim Al Habsi Chairman of Orpic Board of Directors said, “We are delighted to celebrate, today, the ground breaking of an important and a vital project which is needed to keep up with the requirements of development in the Sultanate, this project will contribute to enhancing the oil transportation infrastructure in the Sultanate to keep pace with the growing demand for fuel in the Sultanate, and we hope that this project will contribute to the improvement of environmental aspects and road safety”

Musab bin Abdullah Al Mahruqi, Orpic CEO, explained the significance of this project for the transportation of oil products and Al Jifnain terminal to the local communities, saying “To achieve our vision of building an Omani integrated refining and petrochemical business we are proud of, we must support opportunities to grow our people, grow our business and grow our capacity to meet the needs of Oman and international markets.

“In addition to meeting the domestic demand for fuels, which is growing at seven per cent per annum, this project will deliver numerous social, economic and environmental benefits including job growth, improved road safety, increased jet fuel supply, logistic efficiencies, and reduced pollution resulting from pipeline transportation,” Mr Musab Al Mahruqi, Orpic CEO, said.

Al Jifinan Terminal is expected to cater for 50% of Oman’s fuel demand, following commissioning of the project in 2017.

Al Mahruqi added, ““Delivery of Orpic’s MSPP project is in line with our strategic growth plan to revolutionize the way we operate our oil product logistics model – focusing on a higher standard of efficiency, lower costs, eliminating safety and security hazards, improving environmental footprint, and serving the Sultanate with pride,”

Orpic Logistics, a joint venture between Orpic and the Spanish firm Compa??a Log?stica de Hidrocarburos (CLH), is delivering the MSPP project. Mr. Salvador Guillen, Managing Director of CLH stated that though the MSPP project is ambitious, it has a highly dedicated and professional team committed to delivering the project objectives, and said “We are honored to be part of Orpic’s OLC project team and participate in such an important operation for Oman.”

Orpic’s MSPP project is split into four sections: MAF-Jifnain Terminal: 40-km (10 inches), JifnainTerminal-Airport: 30-km (10 inches), and Suhar-Jifnain Terminal: 220-km (18 inches) and Al Jifnain truck loading terminal.

The project will constitute state-of-the-art control systems with latest SCADA technology, leak detection, and telecommunications network.  It will also be equipped with loading facilities designed to cater to the loading of more than 500 trucks per day.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries (Orpic)has finalized a major milestone of its Liwa Plastics Industries Complex: the deliverable of the Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) with details of costs and layouts of the future operations. The USD 3.6 billion project will enable Oman, for the first time, to produce polyethylene, a form of plastic that rates highest in terms of global demand and is used in many products that are part of our daily routine. Developed by Orpic, in partnership with Chicago Bridge and Iron Company (CB&I), the FEED is now ready to be submitted to the companies that were pre-qualified to participate in the Engineering,

Procurement and Construction (EPC) tender process. The awards of the EPC packages are expected to be made in the last quarter of 2015.

“The Liwa Plastics Industries Complex will put Oman in the roadmap of the international petrochemicals marketplace, reinforcing Orpic’s position as a significant player. The market for

plastics is growing globally and the project will firmly contribute to the development of a downstream industry that is substantial for the diversification of the Omani economy. Our teams worked hard and

dedicated to deliver the FEED within 12 months, which is a challenge considering the size and scope of our project,” said Musab Al Mahruqi, CEO of Orpic.

Operating in full speed and in line with its schedule, the project is composed by a 859KTA Steam Cracker, 880KTA Polymer Units, a Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) Extraction Unit and a 300km long

NGL Pipeline from Fahud to Suhar. After LPIC, the plastic production in the Sultanate will increase by 1 million tons, giving Orpic a total of 1.4 million tons of polyethylene and polypropylene production

by 2018. The main objective is to further increase the value that can be derived from Omani crude oil and natural gas, and subsequently improve Orpic’s product mix and business model.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company (Orpic) joined the national celebrations on the return of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said to the Sultanate. Orpic marked this occasion through different activities to join the nation in its moments of joy and appreciation to its beloved leader.

In his address to the employees Musab Al Al Mahruqi, Orpic CEO said: “The sincere love and hard work made by His Majesty to Oman and its people since the early days of the glorious march of the Renaissance, explains the genuine emotions and the joy expressed by the all people of this blessed land. May Allah save Oman, our Sultan and grant him long life to continue leading our nation. His Majesty love and dedication to the service of this country and its citizens is a source of inspiration for all of us to exert more efforts to serve Oman with pride.”
Orpic’s employees organized and internal march expressing their loyalty and gratitude to the leader of the Sultanate His Majesty the Sultan. Some employees as well participated in popular marches in the wilayats of Suhar and Liwa. Joining the nation in its celebrations, Orpic supported also the celebrations in a number of schools in the Governorates of North Al Batinah and Muscat by distributing Omani flags and scarfs. The company as well celebrated this occasion through its different communication platforms like its Facebook page and joined the nation’s online celebrations.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company (Orpic) organized on Wednesday a site visit to local community members to learn about the latest updates of the company’s multibillion dollar Suhar Refinery Improvement Project (SRIP) project. The event was attended by Governor of North Al Batinah, Walis, local dignitaries, and Orpic’s CEO and senior management. The project comes in response to the growing need to upgrade the refining capability of the in order to further maximize the value of Omani crude oil. At the same time it will significantly bring environmental improvements to the company’s activities. The completion schedule for SRIP is 36 months. In his welcoming speech Musab Al Mahruqi, Orpic’s CEO said: “the physical progress as of January 2015 achieved on the Project EPC activities is 41.4% against schedule of 38.3%.”
The Engineering, Procurement and Construction contract of SRIP has been awarded in November 2013 to a joint venture consisting of Daelim Industrial and Petrofac International on lump sum turkey basis. Suhar Refinery Improvement Project has recently gathered further momentum after award of all construction subcontracts and the start of mobilization of those subcontractors to the Project site. SRIP will have five new Units, namely: Vacuum Distillation Unit, Hydro-Cracker Unit, Delayed Coker Unit, Isomerization Unit, and Bitumen Blowing Unit.

After completion of SRIP, the constraints in the existing Suhar Refinery will be tackled and additional quantity of much needed high value middle distillates will be produced in order to meet the naphtha demand of desired quality for the aromatics plant in a cost effective manner, improve RFCC feed quality with respect to CCR and metals, meet polymer grade propylene demand of the polypropylene plant, produce Bitumen to meet country requirement, and produce additional gasoline and diesel.

HSSE (Health, Safety, Security and Environment) has been of paramount importance in SRIP execution and is being closely monitored by top management of EPC Contractor and Orpic’s team. More than 4 million man-hours have been achieved without loss time injurers.
Most of the detailed engineering activities are nearing completion, and the company’s team which was deputed at Seoul, Korea has been mostly demobilized to site. All orders for critical and major items have been placed and manufacturing is progressing well. Procurement activities are progressing as per schedule and bulk material has started arriving at site.
All of the project’s major construction subcontracts have been awarded and construction activities have picked up during the last three months. The current total manpower at site is around 5000 out of which 17% are Omanis in different disciplines.

Suhar- As part of the Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association’s Gulf-wide Waste Free Environment event, Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company (Orpic) organised an internal and external awareness campaign under the theme of “We Care” to shed light on individuals’ responsibilities’ in protecting our environment. The WFE initiative aims to educate the public about responsible waste disposal. It was launched by the GPCA in 2013 participants in the WFE include volunteers from across the Arabian Gulf.

With volunteers from Orpic and the local communities, the company organised recently a cleaning campaign. The campaign was divided in two sessions with two different locations. The first one was in the morning in Wadi Heebi and the second was in the afternoon in Suhar beach. The waste collected by the participants who were from Orpic and local communities was weighed by Bani Adam Recycling Services. The total weight was 1060Kg of waste comprising of several elements such as plastics, metals, boxes, etc. In addition, Orpic’s activities witnessed a participation from Hwa’a bint Yazeed School which organised a beach clean-up activity in Amq beach in Suhar.

Orpic’s celebration is based on its core values which start with putting safety and the environment first. The company selected the “We Care” theme out of its strong belief in the importance of personal responsibility and the role it can play in fighting many malpractices that are harmful to the environment, and sustaining our environment.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries (Orpic) organized under the auspices of H.E Hamed bin Khamis Al Amri Undersecretary of Ministry of Manpower, celebrated the graduation of 104 Omani trainees forming the second batch of Orpic training program. Orpic also welcomed during the same ceremony a new batch of 100 Omani graduates covering different disciplines. The ceremony was attended by a number of senior government officials, dignitaries, Orpic CEO and executive team.

Orpic training program for Omani graduates aims at qualifying more than 850 new graduates over the next five years to provide Orpic with a competent national cadre to operate the current and upcoming plants.

“Orpic has an ambitious plan to expand its business through its investments in Suhar Refinery Improvement Project, Liwa Plastics Industries Complex, Al Jifnain Filling Station Terminal and Muscat Suhar Product Pipeline project with a total cost of 7 billion USD which will be commissioned over the next three years” said Musab Al Mahruqi Chief Executive Officer of Orpic.

Orpic launched various external and internal initiatives in human resources development. One of the internal initiatives is Arryiada program which aims to develop leadership skills of managers and team leaders; 110 employees participated in this program. Additionally, the skills development initiative  (ItQan), which is an internal program that targets around 870 of the company’s employees in the technical functions of MAF and Suhar Refineries, and Aromatics and Polypropylene plants. The program aims to establish and activate a system to develop the skills of engineers, operators and technicians who work in different locations. In addition to these programs, the company has launched the educational development program, which aims to aid employees in completing their studies and gaining new skills and contacts in their different fields.

Some of the external initiatives of the Orpic in this field include Orpic International Scholarships program which aims to sponsor 50 students from Al Batinah North Governorate to study in some of the most prestigious academic institutions. The company has allocated 10 million US Dollars for this initiative. In addition, the company is currently working in cooperation with Suhar Aluminum to expand the capacity of the Al Batinah International School from 200 students to 1000 students by the end of 2018. Moreover, with support from Jusoor and Al Batinah International School, Orpic will sponsor a program that aims to provide scholarships to study in the school for the talented children of the region.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company (Orpic) has finalized the pre-qualification process for the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) work packages of its state-of-the-art Liwa Plastics Industries Complex (LPIC). Taking advantage of Oman’s natural resources and capitalizing on the synergies with the existing refinery and the growing global market for plastics, the US$3.6 billion project will create new business opportunities and employment in the Sultanate, and firmly reinforce the company as a significant player in the international petrochemicals marketplace.

The project will be executed through four EPC packages which include a Steam Cracker and Polymer Units, a Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) Extraction Unit and a NGL Pipeline from Fahud to Suhar. “This process is a key milestone to our project and all the contractors were required to demonstrate their knowhow on projects with similar size, nature and complexity, along with their international experience with the generation of in-country value considering the legacy that we want to create to Oman,” said the General Manager responsible for the project, Henk Pauw.

The following step of the project is releasing a tender invitation for the qualified companies which was initiated in January, 2015 and the project schedule foresees the second stage by early April, when the currently ongoing front-end engineering design (FEED) will be finalized. The awards of the EPC packages are expected to be made in the last quarter of 2015.

The Liwa Plastics Industries Complex will enable Oman, for the first time, to produce polyethylene, the form of plastic that rates highest in terms of global demand. After LPIC, the plastic production in the Sultanate will have increased by 1 million tones, giving Orpic a total of 1.4 million tons of polyethylene and polypropylene production by 2018. The main objective is to further increase the value-added that can be derived from Omani crude oil and natural gas, as well improve Orpic’s product mix and business model, double its profit and support the diversification of the national economy by contributing to the development of a downstream plastics industry in Oman.
The EPC contractors will supply all the equipment’s and materials required for the implementation of the project based on an approved ‘Vendor List’. Interested suppliers shall contact the EPC qualified contractors for registration.

As part of Orpic’s commitment to support the local companies, it has invited all companies to register at Oman’s Joint Supplier Registration System (JSRS). The registration can be done through the website www.businessgateways.com under the category “Manufacturers in Oil & Gas Sector”. Following successful registration, suppliers will then become eligible to be added to the ‘Vendors List’ subject to a pre-qualification process that will be done by the EPC contractors.

Pre-qualified contractors for the EPC packages

Steam Cracker Unit:

• JV CB&I Nederland B.V. / Saipem S.p.a. / CTCI Corporation
• JV Daelim Industrial Co., Ltd. / Petrofac International Limited
• Hanwha E&C Corporation
• JV Toyo Engineering Corporation / GS Engineering & Construction Corp.

Polymer Units:

• Daelim Industrial Co., Ltd.
• JV GS Engineering & Construction Corp. / Mitsui & Co., Ltd.
• JV Linde Engineering Dresden GmbH / ThyssenKrupp Industrial Solutions AG
• JV Saipem S.p.a. / Sinopec Engineering (Group) Co., Ltd.
• Tecnimont S.p.A.

Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) Extraction Unit:

• Bechtel Limited
• JV GS Engineering & Construction Corp. / Mitsui & Co., Ltd.
• Petrofac International Limited
• Saipem S.p.a.
• JV SK Engineering & Construction Co., Ltd. / Larsen & Toubro Hydrocarbon Engineering Ltd.

NGL Pipeline:

• Bechtel Limited
• Dodsal Engineering & Construction LLC.
• Larsen & Toubro Hydrocarbon Engineering Ltd.
• Punj Lloyd Limited
• Saipem S.p.a.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company, Orpic won with SKAPS the Best Joint Development of a new Product/ Application by a Resin Producer and Plastic Converter Award. The recognition was announced in the awarding ceremony of the 5th Plastics Excellence Awards 2015, an initiative of the Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA), which was celebrated by high profile representatives of the GCC’s plastic industry in Dubai on Monday.

Commenting on the wining Faisal Al-Hajri, a senior polymer marketing expert at Orpic, said: “We are happy that GPCA recognized the extensive efforts we are making at Orpic and the strong collaboration we have with our customers. This success is a true reflection of a successful chain of integration between the polymer marketing, customer, operations and Lab to bring out the export potential of the new polypropylene grade.”

He added: “Orpic’s commitment towards its customers is an integral part of its growth strategy. Our aim is to continue building the Luban brand name as the leading global brand for Orpic`s existing and future polymer business.”

The GPCA Plastics Excellence Awards recognize outstanding initiatives in plastics conversion, plastics engineering and product development by companies and individuals from the Arabian Gulf region. Now in its fifth edition, the awards are part of GPCA’s aspirations and continuous contributions to the enhancement of the region’s plastics industry. Award recipients were chosen from 39 applications by a jury that included top executives from regional leading companies:

Best Joint Development of a new Product/ Application by a Resin Producer and Plastic Converter: 
• Winner: Orpic, Oman together with Skaps and other national and international converters
o PP staple fiber grade with enhanced tenacity and elongation for geotextile applications

• Runners up: Sabic & Saudi Mais, Saudi Arabia
o Using Sabic’s PS grade for Saudi Mais’ nebulizer head

Best Plastic Products and Processes
• Winner: Equate, Kuwait
o Innovative LLDPE Product with high clarity and low blocking
• Runners up: Reifenh?user and Napco, Saudi Arabia
o Evolution of an ultra-cool FFS blown film system

Best Researcher 
• Winner: Dr Orass Hamed, from Sabic’s R&D Center, Saudi Arabia
o Polyolefin catalysis
• Runners up: Dr Kumar Yadav and Dr Hau Qua, Nipras Tasnee, Saudi Arabia
o Conducting polyolefin: a way for commodity converting into specialty polyolefin

Student competition – Fikra: Rising Stars of the Plastics Industry

• Winner: Rayan Zakaria Mubarak Al-Ahmadi and Khaleed Saleah Al-Mosalam, Trainees in Diploma course of Plastics Fabrication Technology, Higher Institute of Plastics Fabrication, Saudi Arabia
o Eliminating long spues from injection molds

• Runners up: Sultan Al-Otaibi and Omar Al-Enezi
o Development of injection molding method of elimination of a weld-line

A school project from the Sultanate got recognized during the event as well. Saham School for Girls supported by Orpic, participated in the award with an innovative recycling project.  A team from the school developed a unique project about plastics recycling which involved a full year plan of different activities.

Ahmed Al Naqbi, the external relations manager at Orpic said: “Our support stems from our strong believe on innovation and the importance of protecting and preserving our environment and this is motivated as well by one of our values at Orpic which is  we put safety and the environment first.

Orpic has concluded its participation in GPCA’s Plasticon 2015 which focuses on the growth of plastics conversion both globally and in the GCC countries. The conference represents a platform for the development of the downstream industry by showcasing the value that the regional producers bring to the converters. The agenda for this year covered commentaries and discussions on latest trends (local, regional and international) in markets, technology and product groups. Orpic as well has concluded this week it’s participation in the international Arabplast Exhibition, which is considered the largest plastics, petrochemicals and rubber industry trade show in MENA.

Orpic Logistics Company (OLC), a joint venture between Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries (Orpic) and the Spanish firm Compa??a Log?stica de Hidrocarburos (CLH), held in Muscat on Tuesday 16 December a signing ceremony for the EPC contract and the financing agreement of its Muscat Suhar Product Pipeline project (MSPP). The Oman based GPS Company will be the lead contractor in the EPC contract and it will be supported by Abantia, a Spanish Construction company, which is experienced in terminal construction, and Diseprosa an engineering company based in Spain. The financing agreement which will cover 70% of the project value has been signed with to Ahli Bank SAOG and its strategic partner Ahli United Bank B.S.C.
The EPC contract and financing agreement were signed on behalf of Orpic Logistics Company by Musab AL Mahruqi, Chairman of OLC, and Salvador Guillen, a board member of OLC and on behalf of GPS the EPC contract was signed by its General Manager N.Vahora. The financing agreement was signed on behalf of the Ahli Bank SAOG by its CEO Lloyd Maddock, CB Ganesh Deputy CEO and on behalf of the Ahli United Bank B.S.C Bahrain by Prakash Mohan- Group Head- Corporate Banking and Shyam Sunder, Team Leader, Energy & Utility.

The ceremony was held in Orpic’s Mina Al Fahal Refinery and attended by His Excellency Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Oil and Gas, and His Excellency Juan-Jose Urtasun, Spanish Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman.

During his speech in the signing ceremony Musab Al Mahruqi said: “the MSPP project is actually of paramount importance to the Sultanate as it will help satisfying the growing domestic demand for fuels which is 7% per annum, it will guarantee a timely availability of products without shortage, and after its commissioning 50% of the country’s demand will be met from the new storage facility of the project.”

He added that: “the project will provide a highly safe and environmental friendly transportation of petroleum products across the country, it will also help in saving energy with very minimum fuel loss, and it will reduce truck traffic especially around Muscat.”

Additionally, during their speeches, Jose Luis Lopez de Silanes said: “It is an honor for CLH that Orpic has chosen us to participate in such an important operation, which will bring significant advantages to this country and will mean the transformation of its oil product logistics model into a more efficient, safe and environmentally-friendly one”; and Salvador Guillen remarked that “the ambitious objectives associated to the MSPP Project can be achieved if we continue working with the same degree of commitment and effort that we have employed to date. At this point, I would like to highlight the professional attitude shown by the OLC team and the dedication of its Board members”.

Lloyd Maddock, CEO, Ahlibank said, “We are happy to be able to lend our financing services to a contract of this magnitude. Ahlibank has, and will always be keen to contribute to the development that the Sultanate is witnessing. The Bank has financed several major projects in recent years, and we will continue to finance different projects in the Sultanate and provide our services to investors and companies in the region. I would highlight the participation of our strategic partner, Ahli United Bank B.S.C in supporting this important project financing for Oman with us”.

The MSPP Project will be a two-way multi-product pipeline, the first of its kind to be constructed in Oman. The project estimated cost is USD 320 million. The new pipeline network will eliminate the need for Orpic to ship and truck refined products. Not only will it bring a new level of efficiency and lower costs to its business, it will reduce the number of fuel-tank truck journeys in and around Muscat. Heavy fuel-tank truck traffic in Muscat is expected to drop by 70%. The MSPP Project will connect Orpic’s Mina Al Fahal and Suhar refineries by means of a 280 km pipeline to an intermediate distribution and storage facility at Jifnain in the Wilayat of Seeb, as well as a new storage facility at Muscat International Airport, which will receive aviation fuel directly from the pipeline. The pipeline is split into three sections: MAF-Seeb Terminal: 42 KM (10 inches), Seeb Terminal-Airport: 27 KM (10 inches), and Suhar-Seeb Terminal: 228 KM (18 inches).
The construction of the pipeline and oil tanks facility will start in the first quarter of 2015 and the project is due to be commissioned in the second quarter of 2017. The project will constitute of a state of the art control systems with latest technology of SCADA, leak detection, and telecommunication network and it will equipped with loading facilities for trucks filling that is designed to load 200 trucks per day.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company (Orpic) is preparing bid documents for the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) work packages on the estimated USD 3.6 billion petrochemical complex Liwa Plastics Project (LPP) in Sohar, Oman. It is envisaged that there will be four EPC packages, including: 859KTA steam cracker, 880KTA polymer units, Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) extraction unit (all with off-site works and utilities), and a 300km long NGL pipeline. It is Orpic’s intention to issue the bid documents to the prequalified applicants early in 2015, once the currently ongoing front-end engineering design (FEED) has been finalized. Orpic is planning the installation of the LPP adjacent to its currently implemented Sohar Refinery Improvement Project (SRIP).
The EPC prequalification process is under way and the contractors who successfully prequalify will be contractors with significant prior experience of constructing similar petrochemical plants. As this is a strategically significant project for the Sultanate of Oman and as part of Orpic’s commitment to the ICV initiative, the company encourages local businesses to participate in the project throughout the supply chain.
The Local Omani firms who are interested to participate as suppliers or subcontractors under the EPC Contractors for the Liwa Plastics Project are requested to register with the Joint Supplier Registration System (JSRS) of Oman. The JSRS registration process can be commenced online at https://www.businessgateways.com/.
Orpic had recently organized its 3rd Supplier Symposium during which more than 900 representatives of local and international companies were briefed on the different processes and regulations of the company. During the symposium the Joint Supplier Registration System (JSRS) organization gave a presentation on their contribution to the national supplier process, and the importance and benefits of registering on the JSRS. Orpic officials also highlighted the available opportunities in the company’s different projects including Liwa Plastics Project.

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company (Orpic) said on Thursday 11 December 2014 that the assessment of the damage caused by the last week’s MAF Refinery fire incident was completed early this week and repairs are already ongoing.
The company emphasized that the fire resulted in minor damage to the facility and the operations of the refinery are expected to resume on 18 December 2014.
With regards to the three injuries, Orpic said it is continuously monitoring the condition of the injured personnel and stated that they are recovering well and are expected to be discharged from hospital within the next few days.

The company on the other hand highlighted that investigations of the causes of the fire are still in progress and are expected to be finalized within the next two to three weeks.
Being the nation’s main fuel provider, Orpic has also confirmed that fuel products supply to the local market is continuing as normal and the production at its Suhar Refinery is continuing as per normal production plan. As part of its commitment to the nation, Orpic has also increased the fuel trucks loading capacity in Suhar to ensure uninterrupted fuel supplies.
Orpic appreciated the teamwork and dedication demonstrated by all parties involved in extinguishing the fire within a short time and limiting the damages to minimum.

Suhar: 8th Dec 2014: Orpic held its 3rd annual Supplier Symposium today at the Majan Hall, Suhar. Well over 900 delegates attended the event representing local, regional and international companies, reflecting the exciting growth this year of the 3rd version of the event.

The symposium aims at fostering relations with existing and potential suppliers. It provides an ideal channel for those suppliers to learn more about the business opportunities available with Orpic in a transparent and fair manner and came this year under the theme "Creating Business Networks", a nod to the fact that the event has become an acknowledged meeting place for the supplier segment.

"We hope that this forum will not only provide the opportunity for suppliers to learn about the latest updates happening at Orpic but also become a real platform for suppliers to meet amongst themselves and discuss the potential partnerships that can enhance their presence in the marketplace," said Dr. Hilal Al Hinai, General Manager of Corporate Support Services at Orpic. "The event also provides suppliers with information regarding Orpic`s approach to managing the relationships with different suppliers through the applied systems and procedures that provide them with better access to the Orpic business opportunities."

Presentations on the company`s major projects to update suppliers on their progress were made throughout the event. With the suhar Refinery Improvement Project (SRIP) already under construction, there was also progress information from the US$3.6 billion Liwa Plastics Project (LPP) and the Muscat-suhar Product Pipeline (MSPP). In addition to these core developments, a number of exciting new projects were presented that were of interest to suppliers.

"We recognize the importance of our relationships with suppliers and aim to enhance them all the more by providing the 2015 Orpic Procurements Procedures Manual. This provides vendors with all required information regarding Orpic`s new projects as well as information about the e-procurement service launched by Orpic last year through the Company`s portal," added Dr. Hilal.

As well as the operational updates, other Orpic departments also discussed their particular roles and processes, including some new ones. The company`s In-Country Value (ICV) Department was formed early in 2014 and has added significant value in sharpening the focus on the level of procurement disbursed locally and nationally, and engagement with Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).

The Procurement, Contracts and Inventory Department (PCI) also spoke to delegates on the latest news with regard to their procedures and requirements, focusing on how a potential supplier can best serve its own interests in its dealings with Orpic through the tendering process. The Joint Supplier Registration System (JSRS) organization made a presentation on their contribution to the national supplier process, and the importance and benefits of registering on the JSRS.

During the lunch and refreshment breaks delegates were able to talk to company representatives at a series of project and department-specific booths.

Several contracts were also signed as part of the agenda, totaling well over US$800,000 in value. These contracts have been awarded to both local and national companies.

In addition of supplier delegates the symposium was attended by Ahmed Mohammed Al Mohammed, Director General of Commerce & Industry in Al Batinah North as well as Orpic officials, local dignitaries and representatives of public and private institutions.

Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company) has now completed the first stage of the two-stage tender for pre-qualification for the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) work packages for the estimated US$3.6 billion Liwa Plastics Project (LPP) petrochemical complex in Suhar, Oman. The pre-qualification tender invited applications for the pre-qualification to tender for one, or several, of the four EPC packages, including a 859KTA steam cracker, 880KTA polymer units, a Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) extraction unit (all with off-site works and utilities), and a 300km long NGL pipeline. The first stage involved pre-qualification of individual entities, while the second stage will focus on evidence of formation of the proposed JVs/consortia. Only first stage pre-qualifiers will be permitted to participate in the second stage. The bidders were given the choice of applying for tier 1 (acting as single entities or lead partners in a future JV) or for tier 2 (acting as partners in a future JV).

The first pre-qualification stage has clearly demonstrated Orpic`s ability to attract very strong interest for LPP from globally prominent EPC contractors, with the envisaged number of strong prequalified bidders being achieved despite very stringent pre-qualification requirements. The following companies have been successful during the first stage and are now eligible to enter the second stage:

For the steam cracker project:
Tier 1: CB&I, CTCI, Daelim, Hanwha, JGC, Samsung, Toyo.
Tier 2: Bechtel, Essar, GS, Hyundai, Intecsa, Petrofac, Saipem, Tecnicas Reunidas, Tecnimont.

For the polymers project:
Tier 1: Daelim, GS, Linde, Saipem, Samsung, Tecnimont, ThyssenKrupp.
Tier 2: Bechtel, CTCI, Foster Wheeler, Intecsa, Larsen & Toubro, Mitsui, Petrofac, Sinopec , TECHINT, Tecnicas Reunidas.

For the NGL extraction project:Tier 1: Bechtel, Chiyoda, Fluor, GS, Hyundai, JGC, SK, Toyo.Tier 2: Black & Veatch, CB&I, CTCI, Foster Wheeler, Hyundai, Itochu, Larsen & Toubro, Mitsui, Saipem, TECHINT, Tecnicas Reunidas, Tecnimont.

For the NGL pipeline project:
Tier 1: Bechtel, Dodsal, Larsen & Toubro, Punj Lloyd, Saipem, Tecnicas Reunidas.
Tier 2: Consolidated Contractors, Essar, Gulf Petrochemical, KazStroyService, TECHINT, The Petroleum Projects Petrojet.

It is Orpic`s intention to issue the invitation to tender (ITT) for the four work packages to the pre-qualified applicants at the beginning of 2015, once the second stage of the pre-qualification has been completed. The ITT will be issued in two stages. The first stage is planned to start at the end of January 2015 with the basic design engineering package (BDEP) information and the conditions of contract to be issued to the bidders. It is then Orpic`s intention to continue with the second stage at the end of March 2015 once the front-end engineering design (FEED) has been finalized.

Orpic plans to situate the Polymers and Cracker units next to its Suhar Refinery Improvement Project (SRIP). LPP will include an ethylene cracking plant, high density polyethylene (HDPE) plant, linear low density polyethylene plant (LLDPE), new polypropylene plant, methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) plant, butene-1 plant and associated utilities and off-site facilities. The petrochemical plant will be integrated with the Suhar refinery, aromatics complex and polypropylene plant.

The feedstock being considered are NGLs (C2+) removed from natural gas at an extraction plant at Fahud, then transported to the Suhar complex through a 300 km pipeline, and mixed Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) produced in the refinery and aromatics complex, along with dry gas produced in the Residue Fluid Catalytic Cracking unit (RFCC) and new delayed coking unit that is included in SRIP. Some of the materials produced in the petrochemical complex, including hydrogen, MTBE, pyrolysis fuel oil and pyrolysis gasoline will be returned to the refinery, aromatics complex and existing polypropylene plant.

Next Monday, 8th December, Orpic will host its 3rd annual Supplier Symposium at the Majan Hall, Sohar. This year`s event will be the largest yet, with hundreds of national and international suppliers expected to attend and over 300 representatives pre-registered already.

In an extensive programme there will be presentations on the company`s major projects to update suppliers on their progress. With the Sohar Refinery Improvement Project (SRIP) already under construction, there will also be progress information from the US$3.6 billion Liwa Plastics Project (LPP) and the Muscat-suhar Product Pipeline (MSPP). In addition to these core developments, a number of exciting new projects will be presented that will be of interest to suppliers.

Time has also been set aside for several contracts to be signed totaling well over US$800,000 in value. These contracts have been awarded to both local and national companies.

As well as the operational updates, other Orpic departments will be discussing their particular roles and processes, including some new ones. The company`s In-Country Value (ICV) Department was formed early in 2014 and has added significant value in sharpening the focus on the level of procurement disbursed locally and nationally, and engagement with Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). The Procurement, Contracts and Inventory Department (PCI) will also be enlightening attendees on the latest news with regard to their procedures and requirements, and how a potential supplier can best serve its own interests in its dealings with Orpic through the tendering process. The Joint Supplier Registration System (JSRS) organization will speak on their contribution to the national supplier process, and the importance and benefits of registering on the JSRS.

At the heart of the symposium`s activities a panel discussion will explore the issues of SME support and development, using Orpic`s own experience and activities as a framework for the conversation. During the lunch and refreshment breaks delegates will be able to talk to company representatives at a series of project and department specific booths.

Orpic is also employing an online pre-registration service which will speed up attendee processing on the day and provide specific information about the venue location and the day`s programme. In order to avail themselves of this service, those interested should go to www.orpicevents.com.

Suhar, 1 December: Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company) participated at this year’s Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) Forum in Dubai last week, its third consecutive appearance at the region’s premier petrochemicals industry event.

The Liwa Plastics Project (LPP), Orpic’s US$3.6 billion development, was again the focus of attention on the company stand. LPP, which is scheduled to become operational in 2018 will enable the first Omani production of polyethylene, the world’s most in-demand plastic, and see Orpic double its profitability. Currently LPP is coming to the end of the Front End Engineering and Design (FEED) stage, and will enter the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) tendering phase in the new year.

In a fresh initiative this year, Orpic also sponsored the participation cost of three Sultan Qaboos University students to give them experience of an industry-wide event, allowing them to attend the Conference that is central part of the GPCA Forum and hear the latest positions and opinions from the industry’s experts.

When in production, LPP, which has at its heart a steam cracker unit, will support the growth of the country’s downstream plastics industry, bringing with it additional employment potential. LPP will also result in direct employment by Orpic through the construction and operational phases of the project. 350 operators will be required on a permanent basis as well as 150 technicians, with 10,000 FTEs (Full Time Equivalents) during the construction stages. As with all of Orpic’s projects, In-Country Value (ICV) is integrated into LPP, creating a sharp focus on SME development and local procurement.

With the completion of LPP, Orpic will be producing a total of 1.4 million metric tonnes of polyethylene and polypropylene a year. In addition to the Steam Cracker, the project includes plants for Polypropylene, LLDPE and HDPE, as well as a natural gas extraction plant in Fahud and a 300km pipeline from there to the suhar complex.

Orpic’s two other major projects are also on track, with the US$2.6 billion suhar Refinery Improvement Project (SRIP) now in construction and scheduled to be commissioned in 2016, and the Muscat-suhar Product Pipeline project due for completion in 2017. 

At its third annual long service award ceremony, Oman’s national oil refineries company, Orpic, congratulated employees who have been with the company from between 5 and 30 years. Those who have clocked up 30, 25, 20, 15, 10, and 5 years’ service were rewarded with memorable gifts and financial bonuses by H.E. Sultan Bin Salim Al-Habsi, Secretary General of the Supreme Council for Planning and Orpic Deputy Chairman at the occasion, which was held recently at the Al Bustan Hotel. In addition, the Orpic Board of Directors were also present.

Speaking at the event, Orpic CEO Musab Al Mahruqi congratulated the awardees, saying, “It goes without saying that those who have been with us for many years have a critical role to play for the company as we accelerate our growth. The values of loyalty, teamwork and commitment that are so strongly embedded in our long service employees need to be demonstrated and passed to the next generations.”

Orpic expects to expand its workforce considerably over the next four years as its major projects come to fruition by 2018. Between now and then employee numbers will nearly double from 1,600 to almost 3,000. This year alone Orpic has a new batch of over 250 fresh Omani graduates undergoing up to 18 months of training.

Mr. Al Mahruqi also directed attention to the variety of employee development and training programmes that have been established by the company in recent times, such as Arriyadah, a leadership development course, the Orpic Women’s Leadership Forum, and the Education Development programme, as well as the establishment of Talent Boards which focus the process of promotion.

Nofal Al Saidi, GM – Human Resource Services, added, “We are glad to celebrate the third batch of  Long Service Awards by honouring 255 employees who have been with the company for between 5 and 30 years. For any successful company people will always be the first priority, and that is certainly the case at Orpic. Over the next four years we will be welcoming hundreds of new employees into the Orpic family. It will be a challenging and exciting phase for the company, and we will endeavour to ensure that each new employee is able to fully contribute to the company’s growth.”

Those who received awards also expressed their thoughts on what was a significant milestone for them. Abdullah Al Barwani, a 30 year veteren, said “I`m proud to be part of this growth and I would like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation to the Management Team for their leadership and goodness which has allowed this company to be among the leading companies in Oman.”

Qais Al Balushi, who has completed 20 years of service, added, “The Long Service Awards are a motivation tool for employees and we are happy to feel that the company cares about us.”

One of the more recently employed awardees, Buthaina Al Mammary, with 5 years behind her now, concluded, “The Long Service Awards ceremony is the Orpic way to recognize loyal and dedicated staff who will contribute in building the company that we are proud of”.

Muscat:  The Second Omani Petrochemicals Roundtable Meeting, hosted once more by Orpic, was held recently at the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort, Muscat.

The petrochemicals roundtable meeting was attended by His Excellency Salim Al Aufi, The Under Secretary for the Ministry of Oil and Gas, and CEOs and senior executives from the Petrochemicals sector in Oman including Mr. Mulham Al Jarf, Deputy CEO of Oman Oil Company, Mr. Nabil Al Ghassani, CEO of Takamul, Mr. Musab Al Mahruqi, CEO of Orpic, Mr. Said Al Maawali, VP Petchem and & Business Development at OTI, Mr. Jacobus Nieuwenhuijze, Project Director at Duqm Refinery, and Nicolas Barakat, CEO of Octal. Dr. Abdulwahab Al Sadoun, Secretary General of the Gulf Petrochemical and Chemical Association, was also present.

Topics of conversation included petrochemical development opportunities, feedstock supply, global and national economic and industrial trends.  Whilst discussions revolved around value addition, sustainable growth and social responsibility, an overriding priority of the meeting was to focus on the future of the Omani petrochemicals industry based on reaching out to new markets as well as applying innovation in order to move forward into specialties and differentiated products in the sector.  Knowledge transfer, creation of jobs, building on market driven developments and supportive infrastructure were high on the agenda with agreements to continue the work started at this meeting.

Nofal Al Saidi, Orpic’s GM – Human Resource Services, presented a case study on Orpic’s talent management programme in the light of the transformation, fuelled by its schedule of major projects, that the company will undergo between now and 2018. Within that period it is anticipated that the company will increase its number of employees from 1,600 to around 3,000.
Commenting on the significance of the human capital issue across the industry over the coming years, Mr. Al Saidi noted, “In terms of human capital the next few years are critical for the petrochemical sector and the broader oil and gas industry in Oman. It’s vital that there is a robust flow of Omani talent emerging from the education system as committed and ready as it can be to face the challenges and opportunities presented by an abundance of projects and the strong industry growth that is predicted. From our side we need to be able to effectively manage the inflow in order to ensure that those who join can maximize their impact as rapidly as possible.”
The Roundtable Meeting is planned be held annually to discuss sustainable growth and opportunities in the petrochemicals industry as well as further enhancing the relationships between government, the petrochemicals companies and public sector.

Suhar, 27/10/2014: Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Crowne Plaza, Suhar, with the Ministry of Heritage and Culture to fund building of a cultural centre in the Wilayat of Liwa. The signing ceremony was attended by H.E. Sheikh Hamad Bin Hilal Al-Mamary, Undersecretary for Cultural Affairs at the Ministry of Heritage and Culture, H.E. Sheikh Mana bin Saif Al Lamki, the Governor of Al Batinah North Governorate, H.E. the Wali of Liwa, members of the municipal council, community representatives and local sheikhs.
The project is a continuation of the social investment initiatives espoused by Orpic which acknowledge the important role that companies play relating to social responsibility and the local community. Orpic has allocated one million Omani Rials to this project which aims to complement the government’s social development efforts with respect to cultural activities, and the encouragement of creativity in a variety of disciplines.

The idea behind the project
The idea to support the centre’s construction arose after studying society key needs regarding the enrichment of the theme of culture, and the enhancement of the educational component through interesting, interactive and entertaining ways which would help to stimulate innovation. Orpic’s own vision of human resource development, with a focus on the enhancement and development of individuals’ capabilities - specifically those of young people, has converged with local society’s requirements in creating an appropriate environment to harness this energy through making the appropriate facilities available to individuals, so that they can develop. The project is one that complements the role of government, and is a direct response to His Majesty’s directions to give greater attention to the subject.

The location of the project
The Liwa Cultural Centre will be situated between two important social facilities, the Omani Women’s Association (OWA) and Al-Salam Sports Club’s Liwa branch. This triangle creates a unique combination of support to the local community, and encourages joint activities that can assist in nurturing talent from all parts of society.
The centre will have both educational and cultural aspects to it, running versatile programmes designed for every level of the region’s youth. This will be done by taking advantage of their free time in an educational and entertaining manner so that a society that is integrated and unified can be built. The centre will also play a prominent role in discovering and showcasing the talent and energy of young people.

The facilities and components of the centre
It is hoped that the centre will contain a public library, children’s centre, multipurpose hall, continuous education centre, and science club in addition to a centre for creativity and an Orpic educational and cultural centre.
It will also boast other service facilities such as administrative offices in addition to essential facilities such as cafes, rest areas, prayer rooms and parking space.

The targeted categories
The centre will serve several demographic groups through its various sections. The centre will young people, researchers and specialists. It will also include children between 2-12 years of age who the centre will work with to develop their skills and capabilities so that learning becomes more useful and interesting to them through playing and fun. The enjoyment they gain through this will allow awareness to be raised about issues such as the environment, art, technology and innovation. Technologies, discovery cut-outs, interactive exhibits and the organisation of a variety of scientific events will be used to further this objective. Mr. Musab Al Mahruqi, Orpic’s CEO, said at the event, “We decided to invest in and support the building of this centre as we believe in the importance of equipping Omanis with the knowledge they need and providing them the best available educational environment and programmes so that they can become pioneers who can contribute to the advancement of our nation".
He continued, “We have a great focus at Orpic on contributing to the sustainable development of our country through the economic, social and environmental facets inspired by our wise leader, may Allah protect him, who has stressed that the individual is the cornerstone of every developmental advancement and is the millstone that all manner of development circles around, with a target of making the individual happy and providing a decent living, within a safe and secure environment”.
Al-Mahrouqi added: “Inspired by this vision, we have created a variety of investments related to knowledge that reflects the practical application of our vision. These include Orpic’s International Scholarships Programme which we have committed to for five years and which provides scholarships every year to ten of the brightest students in Al Batinah North Governorate to study in some of the best universities in the world, so that they can contribute to the process of national development after they return. In addition, there are other similar local investments that will be announced with full details after the completion of the necessary legal procedures. Our decision to invest 1 million rials to finance a cultural center in the Wilayat of Liwa which we celebrate today by signing this MoU with the Ministry of Heritage and Culture is another reflection of our vision to create sustainable social investment that serves the community at large. We hope that on completion this centre will contribute to the enhancement of the educational process in Liwa and its neighbouring Wilayats within Al Batinah North Governorate, and provide a scientific and cultural platform for the governorate’s youth to increase their knowledge. We also hope that the centre will help discover and showcase the talents and energies of our young people and help further shape and develop them for their and our beloved country’s benefit.”
H.E. Sheikh Dr. Said Bin Hameed Al-Harthi, the Wali of Liwa, said, “This centre will constitute a qualitative, civilizational and cultural leap for the Wilayat. We have been seeking to enhance the Wilayat of Liwa with several development projects following a study of the needs of the Wilayat and its people, especially youth, and this project is one of them. We decided after consulting the Committee of Municipal Affairs to present the idea to Orpic, always an active contributor to the development projects in the Wilayat of Liwa, and Orpic welcomed the idea. On this occasion I want to extend my thanks and appreciation to this energetic and important company within our society, and I would also like to thank the Ministry of Heritage and Culture for their cooperation, for positively embracing the idea and for establishing this centre under its umbrella and supervision.”
Mr. Yousef Al-Maamary, member of the Municipal Council, expressed his happiness about the establishment of the centre and gave his thanks to Orpic, saying, “The Wilayat of Liwa, like many other Wilayats, has a rich history and many scholars have been raised in it and lived here. We are in a need of an initiative that brings this impressive history to life to new generations, making them proud. We believe this centre will provide a suitable environment for the enrichment of our culture.
Mr Al Maamary continued, “Here I want to extend my thanks to Orpic for its effective contributions to society, especially its social investment programmes, for its regular contact with society and for studying its various developmental needs. I would also like to thank the Ministry of Heritage and Culture and the Ministry of Housing.”
Members of the local community also expressed their happiness about the project with Mr. Salim Bin Abdullah Al-Ghfeili saying, “The building of a cultural centre in the Wilayat of Liwa will serve researchers, intellectual writers and students. We can do no more in this occasion than to extend our sincere thanks to Orpic for its generous support in this endeavour.”
“We hope that the centre will contain a museum that exhibits the history of the Wilayat of Liwa, both the physical and intellectual sides, a place where our community can learn about their noble traditions and customs,” Al Ghfeili concluded.

Orpic paid tribute to the women of Oman and Orpic today with a special celebratory event that included music, poetry and presentations. The half-day programme was put together to honour and appreciate the variety of roles that women play in society and also to encourage females to further contribute to the development of the nation through their participation in the workplace, something that has been keenly focused on at Orpic during 2014.
Chief Guest at the celebration, which was held at the Grand Hyatt, was HH Sayyida Dr Mona bint Fahad Al Said. Also present were some of Orpic board directors as well as the Chief Executive Officer of Orpic Musab Al Mahruqi and other government and company officials.
Speaking at the ceremony Musab Al Mahrouqi the CEO of Orpic said: "As we congratulate the Omani women in the Sultanate in general and at Orpic in particular for the Omani Women’s Day, we call upon them to continue their march of excellence and productivity. We are confident of their capabilities and look forward to seeing more of their effective contributions in various areas of work at the company. We created equal opportunities for women in the company and developed various qualification and training programs to help them master the necessary skills to assume senior positions in Orpic."

The event included presentations from Safiya Al Bahlani, the young Omani woman who has overcome a congenital disorder to become an inspirational painter and motivator. A panel debate was also held to debate the issues that face women in Oman and internationally in achieving their full potential.
The Oman Women’s Day celebration is the culmination of what has been an important year for women at Orpic. It has seen the formation of the Oman Women’s Forum which has hosted several seminars at which prominent and inspirational female role models have participated, passing on their advice and knowledge to Orpic’s female employees. In addition to this the “Springboard” programme has been launched in co-operation with the British Council to ensure that women in the company get the opportunity to develop new skills so that new horizons and possibilities can open up for them.

Orpic’s (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries) Sponsorship and Donation Committee approved during its last meeting a number of community service projects and activities. These initiatives are part of the company’s efforts to ensure the sustainable development of the communities it works in.
Commenting on these programmes, Dr. Hilal bin Abdullah al Hinai, Orpic General Manager – Corporate Support Services, said "Social investment by Orpic is part of the CSR approach approved by the company’s management. This approach is based on sustainability and maximizing the benefit from it".

"Orpic CSR approach is based on a number of pillars and among these are the mutual respect, the responsibility towards employees and community members ,supporting their constructive activities, protecting environment through ensuring consistency between production operations and environment, continuous improvement and sponsoring activities that aim at addressing environmental issues", he added.

Orpic’s External Relations Department aims to play a pivotal role in building strategic relationships between the company operations and the different beneficiaries on one hand, and, on the other, maximizing the economic and social gains from Orpic operations. This may be achieved by fostering the relationship between the company and the local community. The department also endeavours to activate the communication platforms with society in a bid to enhance awareness of the company’s operations and help individuals in society play a more active role in the social and economic development of the local communities. The department supports different educational, health, environmental, sports, and cultural activities with financial allocations of US$400,000 dedicated for this purpose.
For his part Ahmed al Naqbi, Manager of the External Relations Department, commented, “Orpic has included social investments in its current and future plans to achieve the desired level of sustainable development, in addition to supplying the country with the fuel required for its growth and development.”

He added, “The company sponsors a number of programmes related to investment in human resources. These programmes include the Orpic International Scholarships, which targets bright and motivated schoolchildren, who are then supported through a seven year educational programme. The selected candidates study at some of the world’s most prestigious schools and universities, enabling them to ultimately add value to the country.” The Orpic Scholarship Programme is part of the Takatuf Scholars Programme.
The department has also supported a number of initiatives that meet the needs of the different sectors of society. The company has provided financial support to development projects in various schools and summer programmes. The programmes have included a number of sports and recreational activities that promote young people’s talents.
In addition, Orpic has also sponsored sports clubs and activities in different wilayats. For instance, al Hadd sports team of al Salam Sports Club in Liwa were helped in the rehabilitation of their grass pitch and other utilities.
Orpic recently announced a number of development projects in the wilayats of Suhar and Liwa and signed a number of MoUs in this regard with various government organizations and NGOs.

Suhar: Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries & Petroleum Industries Company) welcomed today (Sunday) more than 330 young Omani BSc and Diploma graduates forming the third intake of Orpic future employees who will undergo an intensive training programme related to all Orpic functions. This event is part of a plan developed and implemented by Orpic’s Training Centre Services to train 500 young Omanis in groups with the objective of increasing level at Orpic’s Omanisation to 78% by end of 2014.
 
This significant number of trainees, up from 110 last year, reflects Orpic’s commitment to ensure that priority is given to Omani manpower, as well as offering Omanis the opportunity to compete and participate in Orpic’s business achievement and development, and ultimately become part of an organization that serves Oman with pride through the uninterrupted supply of fuel and petroleum products to energise the nation’s development march.
Orpic has recently completed the selection process of the new trainees in which more than 900 new graduates were interviewed following the first round of screening. Out of the 900, more than 330 candidates were selected and welcomed today through a special onboarding programme. The Training Centre has designed an intensive training programme for the new joiners that includes HSE training, as well as theoretical courses, before moving to on-the-job training. The programme has been designed in cooperation with different authorities in the Sultanate to ensure that the selected candidates possess the required skills and knowledge that can help them succeed in their workplace.
Orpic plans to attract around 1400 to 1600 new employees by 2018 with at least 800 of them being young Omanis. This poses a challenge for Orpic given the unique skills and areas of specialty that different units in existing and future Orpic projects need. To overcome this challenge, Orpic has prepared plans to provide training for the new Omani joiners to equip them with necessary skills to succeed in their different areas of expertise.

Orpic operates the largest integrated oil refining and petrochemicals complex in the Sultanate and is the nation`s sole supplier of refined oil products. Orpic is responsible for providing the refined petroleum products to the marketing companies who retail gasoline and diesel to local consumers. Orpic also supplies fuel to construction and maintenance operations and is involved in the operation of facilities and warehouses, in addition to providing means for the distribution of refined petroleum products in the Sultanate. Additionally, Orpic is responsible for the production and sale of aromatics and polypropylene products.

Officials from Orpic, W. R. Grace & Co. (NYSE: GRA), and Suhar University signed recently, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel Suhar, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) marking the first phase in a three-party collaboration designed to create and sustain a state-of-the-art R&D facility at Suhar University at an estimated cost of over USD 3 million.
The R&D facility will be equipped with the latest catalyst testing technology, and will employ highly skilled Omani scientists. The advanced catalyst testing techniques utilised in the laboratory will result in a high-quality service with rapid response times for many of the technical requirements of the nearby Orpic refinery. Grace will provide technical support in the training of personnel and, as the world’s leading supplier of FCC catalysts, will assist in knowledge transfer to support Suhar University’s research programmes.
The agreement is a result of discussions early in 2014 between Orpic and Grace regarding ways of creating In-Country Value for Oman. Suhar University was then approached and subsequently became an integral part of the partnership. This initiative underscores Grace’s commitment to the petroleum refining industry in Oman and the Middle East and represents the first step toward long-term cooperation intended to spur more joint activities, technology development, training, and knowledge transfer to Oman.
Commenting at the ceremony, Abdullah Al-Farsi, Orpic’s Head of ICV, said, “This is a fine example of creating In-Country Value, a key policy in Oman and one which Orpic wholeheartedly supports. Having access to such a modern laboratory will be of a paramount significance to Omani students, and it will be just 20 km away from Orpic’s Suhar Refinery, reinforcing the support our refinery teams need to safely and profitably operate our business.  The initiative represents excellent technology and knowledge transfer opportunities to Omani scientists as well.”
André Lanning, the General Manager for Grace in the region, said “We’re excited by this collaboration, which will serve the interests of all three partners. Grace will be able to improve service with a faster response time to its customers in the region thanks to the close proximity of the laboratory to key customers including Orpic. We’re also pleased to further our cooperation with Oman’s oil refining industry as well as ties to the local community in Oman.”
“This cooperation will enhance Suhar University’s research and development capability by providing access to world-class expertise in the field of catalysis, as well as bringing skilled jobs to the country,” said Professor Ray Volker from Suhar University.
About Orpic
Orpic is Oman’s largest integrated refinery and petrochemical complex and the sole supplier of refined oil products to the nation. The company is responsible for arranging the sale of refined products to the marketing companies engaged in distribution of petroleum products to local consumers and for the construction, maintenance and operation of the facilities and depots providing means of refined products distribution in the Sultanate of Oman. In addition, Orpic is engaged in the production and sales of aromatics and polypropylene products from its downstream petrochemical complex.
www.orpic.om

About Grace
Grace is a leading global supplier of catalysts; engineered and packaging materials; and specialty construction chemicals and building materials. The company’s three industry-leading business segments—Grace Catalysts Technologies, Grace Materials Technologies, and Grace Construction Products—provide innovative products, technologies, and services that improve the products and processes of our customer partners around the world. Grace employs approximately 6,500 people in over 40 countries and had 2013 net sales of $3.1 billion. More information about Grace is available at www.grace.com.

Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries andPetroleum Industries Company) washighly active in the Khareef Season thisyear through its Ehsan Voluntaryteam. The team launched a Road Safety awareness campaign that continues the approach adopted by theCompany to support efforts to educate the communityabout the causes of road safety issues,the hazards and effects, andways to avoid them, through a series of programmesand events that address varioussectors of society.

The campaign’sopening ceremony was held under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah bin Aqeel Al Ibrahim,Acting Deputy Governor of Dhofar at Salalah GardensMall. The launchtook place on Tuesday, 19 Augustand concluded on Sunday,August 24th, and included many activitiesthat were designed to be relevant to different age groups. They includedan exhibition and a variety ofeducational competitions, including a competition forthe most beautiful road painting for children, aswell as showcasing a number offilms and awareness programmes.

Orpic’s Ehsan Voluntaryteam conducted this campaign in collaborationwith the company’s External Relations Departmentand the Traffic Safety Institute. Theteam has previously organized campaignsand awareness programmes on the same subject, including a training programme for school bus drivers on Defensive Driving in collaboration with the Safety Traffic Institute, the Ministry of Education and Orpic’s External RelationsDepartment. This ongoing programme has several phases and started with training of 30 schoolbus drivers from the Al Batinah NorthGovernorate participating in a training coursethat lasted for two weeks and washeld at the company’s TrainingCentre Building in the Orpic Suhar complex.The training focused on both theoreticaland practical aspects to maximize thebenefit for the participants.

 Orpic’s (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company) US$3.6bn Liwa Plastic Project (LPP) has announced the award of five technology licensor contracts valued at around US$80 million. The contracts relate to various LPP units, namely, NGL Extraction, PyGas Hydrogenation, MTBE, Polypropylene, and Polyethylene.

LPP is a steam cracker project, which will process light ends produced in Orpic’s Suhar Refinery and its Aromatics plant as well as optimize Natural Gas Liquids (NGLs) extracted from currently available natural gas supplies. Thus, these technology contracts that have been awarded are of paramount importance to the different stages of the project’s production processes and have been chosen as a result of competent bidding and selection process. 

The NGL extraction technology will be provided by Randall and will be put to use in a natural gas extraction plant located in Fahud. The plant will send its products through a 300km pipeline between Fahud and Suhar Industrial Port. The NGL extraction process involves the stripping of some components from rich natural gas in order for them to be used as feedstock for the plastics production process.

The technology for the PyGas Hydrogenation unit is going to be provided by Axens. This unit is designed to produce a number of high-value components, such as isoprene, benzene, toluene and xylenes. CB & I have been chosen as the licensor of the MTBE producing unit. MTBE (Methyl tert-butyl ether) is used as an additive in gasoline to reduce engine ‘knocking’.

A licensor contract has also been awarded to Basell Poliolefine who will be providing the technological requirement for the Polypropylene unit. This is a single bulk polymerization line that is based on the LyondellBasell proprietary Spheripol process. Products in form of pellets will be available in 25 kg bags, big bags and in bulk, for export and local markets. Polypropylene is used in a wide variety of applications, including packaging and labeling, textiles, stationery, plastic parts and reusable containers. The new unit will add significantly to Orpic’s existing polypropylene production capacity.

In addition, Univation will be the technology provider for polyethylene unit. Polyethylene is currently the form of plastic most in demand in the global marketplace. It will be a new two line polymerization and will produce components that are used by customers for the production of films and parts. As with polypropylene, the polyethylene will be available in pellet form in 25 kg bags, big bags and in bulk.

Earlier this year the LPP awarded two major contracts for PMC and FEED. The PMC contract was awarded to New Delhi, India-based Engineers India Limited (EIL). The FEED and Steam Cracking technology contract was awarded to Chicago Bridge and Iron Co (CB & I) which operates out of The Hague, Netherlands.

LPP is scheduled for completion in 2018 and is expected to double Orpic`s profitability by extracting significantly more value from every barrel of Omani crude and molecule of gas.

Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company) organized on Tuesday a workshop for significant and expert regional and international engineering, procurement and construction contractors (EPC) to brief them on the forthcoming prequalification tender for its USD 3.6 billion Liwa Plastics Project (LPP).

The participating companies are considered potentially capable of carrying out works relating to one of LPP’s EPC work packages and they have expressed interest in participating in the tender. 

LPP is the subject of keen interest among the prospective tenderers, reflected in the strong attendance at the workshop by major regional and international market players. The purpose of the workshop was to outline to the potential bidders the details regarding the implementation of LPP, its status, objectives and timeline, project participants, financing and sponsors, along with Orpic’s corporate growth strategy.

The most salient details relating to the EPC pre-qualification tender schedules to be floated in the following weeks were also discussed. Orpic also invited the participating EPC contractors to provide their feedback and enquiries with regard to the implementation of LPP and the EPC tenders.

“It made sense for us to brief this group of potential pre-qualifiers at this stage,” said Henk Pauw, GM of LPP, “we need to ensure that they have a complete a picture of what LPP represents as early as possible in the process. This session will help both us and contractors as we move towards qualification and beyond with what is one of the country’s most significant projects.”

LPP will include a nominal 900 thousand tonne per year (KTA) ethylene cracking plant, high density polyethylene (HDPE) plant, linear low density polyethylene plant (LLDPE), a new polypropylene plant to augment the existing one, MTBE plant, butene-1 plant and associated utilities and off-site facilities.

The petrochemical plant will be linked with the refinery, aromatics complex and polypropylene plant, making real Orpic’s stated vision of building an integrated refining and petrochemical business. The feedstocks being considered are NGLs (C2+) extracted from natural gas in central Oman and piped to the Suhar complex, mixed LPG produced in the refinery and aromatics complex, and dry gas produced in the RFCC unit and new delayed coking unit that will be part of the Suhar Refinery Improvement Project. Some of the materials produced in the petrochemical complex, including hydrogen, MTBE, pyrolysis fuel oil and pyrolysis gasoline will be returned to the refinery, aromatics complex and existing polypropylene plant, further boosting integration and efficiency levels.

As part of its commitment to support In-Country Value (ICV) in general and vendors from the local communities in particular, Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company) has just provided the owners of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from Al-Batinah North Governorate with an opportunity to learn about the business opportunities available to them within the Suhar Refinery Improvement Project (SRIP). These prospects were highlighted during a workshop that took place in Suhar.

During the workshop Orpic and Daelim/Petrofac (SRIP’s Engineering, Procurement and Construction contractor) detailed all of the categories and opportunities available to local vendors, which include, amongst others, supply, maintenance, rental of heavy equipment, catering, and transportation.
Ibrahim Al Maamari, Orpic’s acting head of ICV, said: “At Orpic we are committed to support the local vendors in coordination with the EPC contractor and to share with them and other stakeholders all possible business opportunities, attending to any query face to face.”

In co-ordination with Daelim/Petrofac, Orpic plans to purchase US$400 million worth of goods and services from from local Omani companies as part of the SRIP ICV plan, including US$21 million from SMEs in Al Batinah North.
A discussion panel was organized at the event, during which the local vendors asked about various aspects of the project, such as the type of business opportunities available and the tendering system. The local vendors from Al-Batinah North expressed their interest in supporting the SRIP project and thanked Orpic for leading such an initiative.
SRIP is a multibillion dollar project that will increase production capacity for Orpic, the sole fuel supplier to the nation, and, on the back of the recent progress made by the company’s Environmental Improvement Programme, will significantly improve its environmental performance. SRIP is scheduled for commissioning in 2016.

Orpic Women`s Leadership Forum has recently organized leadership workshops in the company’s Suhar complex. The Forum itself was set up recently to drive the enhancement of women’s capabilities in the company, and serve as a knowledge and experience sharing platform to generate new ideas that might provide further opportunities for Omani women at Orpic to assume leadership roles.

The workshops were held on two different days. In the two workshops a number of leading women from various institutions gave inspirational and motivational presentations. As a result Orpic females participated effectively demonstrating their interest in listening to the speakers and interacting with them. The Forum invited to the first workshop Salwa Al Housni from PDO, Maryam Al Shaibani, Interface Manager - Oman Oil Company, Ayesha Al Shoily, Head of Internal Communication from Nawras and Majida Al Mamari, Representative of Omani Women’s Association (OWA), Seeb Branch. The event was also strongly supported by senior management with Raphael De Loenen (COO), Nofal Al Saidi (HRS GM), Essam Al Shaibani (Mina Al Fahal Refinery GM), and Luigi Slaviero (Advisor, CEO’s Office) all present.

In the second workshop, entitled “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People”, the speakers were Siham Al Harthy, Director General of Planning and Studies, Ministry of Housing, Shaima Al Lawati, CEO of Road Safety Association, Benita Stafford Coach Expert from Takatuf, and Haniyah Al-Hadhrami Marketing Manager, Angham. In their presentations, the speakers highlighted the experience and knowledge that helped them achieve their goals. One of the guests stressed the importance of prioritizing tasks, setting achievable goals, and how to achieve them. 

The second workshop was introduced by Dr. Hilal Abdullah Al Hinai, General Manager of Support Services who said: “Omani history is full of success stories of great Omani women who achieved through hard work and determination. We believe in the capabilities of Omani women especially with the support they enjoy these days to help them achieve their goals. However, we believe that the seeds of success are determination, belief in one’s self, improving knowledge, and possession of the necessary skills. This means that achieving success depends on the people themselves and their willingness to work for their ambitions. We urge all Orpic female employees to take this opportunity to develop themselves and enrich their experience.” 

By organizing these two workshops, Orpic aims to contribute to the development of the knowledge and skills of women working at the company. It also seeks to provide a platform to exchange ideas and experience between Orpic female employees and successful counterparts within business and society. The Women`s Leadership Forum has plans to organize other events where more distinguished and  successful women will be invited to contribute to the professional growth and knowledge of Orpic employees. 

MUSCAT: Anzyma, a leading technology company headquartered in the Sultanate of Oman, recently implemented a state-of-the-art digital signage solution for Orpic (Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company), across three locations in Oman.

With the goal to enhance Orpic’s corporate communication, a digital communication network comprising of 23 screens was set up at prominent areas, such as the canteen, maintenance area, administration, main control buildings, Health, safety and Environment building, security office and community centre. The network was implemented over a period of three months across all three Orpic locations; namely Suhar, Muscat and Raysut.

Commenting on the installation of the digital signage solutions, Dr Hilal Al Hinai, General Manager - Corporate Support Services, Orpic said, “It was imperative for us to establish a communication channel that contributes to the creation of knowledgeable employees who are armed with the right facts about the company’s activities, operation and environmental and social initiatives. Anzyma have provided us with a comprehensive solution that uses state-of-the-art technology to deliver our internal communications messages throughout our plants and locations.”

The Scala Digital Signage provided by Anzyma has transformed the communication channels at Orpic. It commands attention and promotes real time interaction with employees. The upgrade will keep the Orpic employees across multiple sites informed and updated at all times. The Scala software, which is the world’s most widely deployed digital signage software platform, proves advantageous for Orpic as the company can regularly update the signage with corporate event photographs, videos, safety instructions, news ticker and other relevant information.

Costy Berberi, General Manager, Anzyma said, “Orpic is one of the fastest growing companies in the Middle East oil industry, with a team size of more than 1,600 employees. The Digital Signage installed by Anzyma will serve as an important communication channel that will support the company’s objectives, specifically in enhancing employee awareness and knowledge on company activities.” He further added, “Digital signage has rewritten the rules of marketing and communication, enabling enterprises to deliver information to their employees and customers more dynamically and effectively.”

The Orpic digital signage project will be completed by Anzyma in two phases. The first phase of indoor screen installations has been successfully implemented and the second phase consisting of outdoor LED screens at the main entrance gates as well as indoor interactive screens.

Anzyma has in the past successfully revamped the digital experience of clients such as Omantel, Nawras, ONEIC, through the application of innovative marketing and communication technologies.

Anzyma is engineering a digital revolution in Oman with cutting edge solutions and pioneering technologies and thereby playing a key role in redefining Oman as a major tech hub in the Middle East.

Said Al Hashmi gets pan-Asian recognition at Kuala Lumpur ceremony for his HR contribution
The manager of Orpic’s Training Centre, Said Al Hashmi, has been honoured in Kuala Lumpur at the annual Asian HRD (Human Resources and Development) Awards. He received his award from the Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Tan Sri Dato’ Haji Muhyiddin Haji Mohd Yassin.

Since its launch in 2003 The Asian HRD Awards have honoured an elite list of 145 recipients from 16 countries, which Said now joins. The Asia HRD Awards is a celebration and recognition of individuals who contribute to people development – whether it is to the human resource profession, an organization, the community or society at large. Each award honours individuals and organizations that have demonstrably enriched and made a lasting impact on people development and society.

After returning from the ceremony in Kuala Lumpur with his award, Said noted, “It was a great honour to receive this award. We have tried hard at Orpic to develop a Training Center that will provide the support needed for the significant expansion in employee numbers that the company will experience over the next four years. I have a strong team of Omanis supporting me, and we welcome the challenges ahead. My passion is people development and I am proud to have been able to represent both Orpic and Oman through this award.”

Over the coming four years Orpic’s workforce is scheduled to increase from the current level of just over 1,600 to nearly 3,000.  

Sohar - Under the patronage of H.E. Muhana bin Saif Al Malki, Governor of Al Batina North Governorate, and in the presence of Musab bin Abdullah Al Mahruqi, CEO of Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company) the company celebrated the Groundbreaking for its Sohar Refinery Improvement Project. The event was attended by a number of walis, members of the Majlis Al Shura, sheikhs, officials from the public and private sectors as well as a number of businessmen.
 
The celebration started with an introduction from Mr Al Mahruqi, in which he shed light on the economic and social importance of the project saying: “This is a highly significant moment for all of us at Orpic, and for the nation. The first of our three major projects is now officially under construction. On completion SRIP will begin the fulfilment of Orpic’s mission and vision by ensuring the nation’s fuel needs are met and that our plants environmental performance is significantly better. It will ensure deeper conversion of the Omani crude barrel and extract more value that currently the case.”

The guest of honour and Orpic CEO initiated the groundbreaking to mark the launch of construction work for the project, which is planned to be completed and operational in 2016. The project’s site neighbours Orpic’s Sohar Refinery. It marks a major step forward in  Orpic’s future plans as it will significantly improve environmental performance and help Sohar Refinery overcome constraints resulting from changes in the quality of Oman Export Blend (OEB) crude oil. A key outcome of SRIP will be the guarantee that the Sultanate’s increasing demand for fuel will be met. Orpic has recently awarded the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contracts to Daelim of South Korea and UK based Petrofac, and signed a contract for supply of the long lead equipment required for the project with a number of companies, all of which have long experience in implementing such projects.

National Importance of SRIP:
The project will upgrade the refinery’s overall efficiency and productivity by overcoming the existing technical constraints resulting from the change in OEB crude quality. This will give Sohar Refinery the ability to meet the increasing demand for oil and refined products, supporting the economic development of the Sultanate. Within the company’s operations, the level of integration will be raised significantly, with both the aromatics and polypropylene plants receiving increased feedstock requirements from within the Orpic Sohar complex, replacing imports.

As a result, Sohar Refinery will take its place as one of the high capacity manufacturing operations in the region, and thanks to the current Residue Fluid Catalytic Cracker (RFCC) unit and the additional five new units such as the Hydrocracker, it will be able to refine crude oil of a much greater range of quality. The new additions will also enable the refinery to further increase the percentage utilization of each barrel of Omani crude. The refinery will be able to handle all primary initial quantities entering its units, allowing the output of refining operations to be high-quality fuel and high-value petrochemical products. The project will also enable the refinery to cope with unforeseen changes in crude oil quality, demonstrating the project’s importance at the national level in enhancing the extracted value from an oil barrel.

Sohar Refinery’s existing capacity is 116,000 thousand barrels per day, and with SRIP boosting that figure by an additional 82,000 barrels of daily, the overall capacity will reach 198,000 barrels per day. This increase 70% increase in fuels is made up of production increases of 90% for diesel, 37% for gasoline, 93% for kerosene, 93% for jet fuel, 91% for LPG, 175% for naphtha and 44% for propylene.

SRIP will also offer more than 500 new jobs. To staff the project a blended approach will be used, with new graduates and diploma holders being appointed to compliment experienced employees from the Sohar and Mina Al Fahal refineries, who will in turn have to be replaced by a new intake of talent. The company recently announced over 250 job opportunities for Omani graduates, continuing its mission to empower Omani youth and provide them with the necessary skills and knowledge needed for specialized jobs. Omanisation in the company currently stands at nearly 73%.

Environmental Improvements
Enhancement of environmental performance will be a key benefit that SRIP will bring to Sohar Refinery. The new units will ease the pressure on the existing set-up in the refinery which currently operates at maximum capacity to meet the growing fuel demand in the Sultanate. With the new units online emissions resulting from capacity pressure will be reduced. After the improvement, the refinery will be also able to process high density crude oil effectively, which will in turn increase performance efficiency and operational utilization and reduce the potential for technical failures as a result of the challenge of processing high density crude oil, and for resulting emissions and odours. 

The SRIP units are designed to adhere to both local and European Union environmental regulations as well as the environmental standards applied by the Environmental Protection Agency in the United States, ensuring that technical equipment and processes used in the project are of the highest standard. The design also took into account guidelines issued by the Sohar Environment Unit regarding management of waste materials, industrial waste and safety operations.

In-Country Value Support
In-Country Value (ICV) is a key theme for Orpic, so the company has developed frameworks and insights to support ICV within SRIP, offering the maximum benefit to local business owners from the economic value of the various elements of the project. Meetings have already been held between the SRIP contractor and the local vendors in the Al Batinah North Governorate. These meetings will continue to engage with potential local and national suppliers throughout the project execution stage in order to maximize the value from the project. 

Orpic currently provides 100% of the Sultanate’s needs of fuel, so with SRIP raising the refinery’s productivity, Orpic will be able to meet growing local demand (10% per annum) and increase profitability. For the country, maximizing the economic benefits from every barrel of crude oil after refining and converting it into high-value products is critical in the management of this most precious of national assets. And in terms of another national asset, SRIP will boost the company`s ability to provide more jobs for Omani youth, making it of the largest employers of Omanis in the Sultanate. 

Suhar: Oman Oil  Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company announced the allocation of USD 40 million for social development projects for the coming five years. The company also signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Suhar and Liwa Municipalities to fund several beautification and social investments worth USD 4 million. The agreement was signed on behalf of Orpic by Dr. Hilal bin Abdullah Al Hinai, General Manger of Support Services, on behalf of Suhar Municipality, Saleh bin Said Al Hadabi, and representing Liwa Sheikh Dr. Saif bin Mohammed Al Ghaithi, Deputy Wali of Liwa, Moosa bin Said Al Abri, General Manager of Liwa Municipality, and Yousif bin Mohammed Al Maamari, Municipality Council representative of Liwa. The singing was held under the patronage of H.E. Muhana bin Saif Al Lamki, Governor of Al-Batinah North Governorate, and with the presence of H.E Sheikh Dr. Hilal bin Ali Al Habsi, Wali of Suhar and other Excellences, Sheikhs and officials from the two Willayats.

Commenting on this announcement of investments and signing of MoUs, H.E Sheikh Muhana bin Saif Al Lamki Governor of Al-Batinah North Governorate said: “These investments reflect the constructive partnership between the public and private sectors in achieving development goals across the Sultanate. These initiatives will undoubtedly contribute to the improvement of local communities in the two Willayats in particular and the governorate in general. We praise the efforts of Orpic for this significant contribution and support of social programs and we would encourage other private sector entities to extend similar support to development projects that local communities need.”

This agreement covers executing some projects in Suhar such as development project of Al Falaj Park that include construction of playgrounds, playing areas for kids, public library, walkways, sitting areas, and male & female prayer halls. This project will be done on more 37483 m2. Other projects include beautification of Majees street and Al Mina Roundabout Street by planting both sides and walkways construction, and a forestation of playground of Al Hilal Club in Auqda village in Liwa, and a beautification project in the Willayat, as well as other social projects that will be conducted by Orpic.
On his part, Dr. Hilal bin Abdullah Al Hinai, General Manger of Support Services, said: “We aim from these initiatives to serve and contribute to the development of the local community through several projects that include the beautification of streets as well as other development projects that provide entertainment facilities for families  equipped for sports exercises and reading which will encourage youths to seize their time in beneficial activities that enhance their knowledge and skills.”
“These initiatives are stemmed from Orpic’s belief in the importance of real partnership with public sector institutions to serve the local communities and develop its facilities. In this regard, we would like to express our gratitude to Suhar and Liwa municipalities for their continuous cooperation in carrying out these projects.” He added:
By the allocation of USD 40 million, Orpic conducts several community projects in Al Batinah North Governorate such as Orpic International Scholarships Program, which allows students from the Governorate to complete their studies in prestigious universities around the world. On this educational aspect, Orpic will also offer local scholarships in Al Batina International School. The Company also organizes a program on defensive driving for school bus drivers. Orpic will also announce the construction of cultural complex with various sections in Liwa, which will be an important addition to the facilities in the Willayat. Through its range of products, Orpic supplies all the Sultanate`s needs of fuel and strives to develop local communities through different investments and initiatives.  

Suhar, Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company) today signed an agreement at its headquarters in Suhar for the 1st batch of its international scholarships. 9 students have been carefully selected from male and female students in Al Batinah North Governate schools.

The signing ceremony was held under the auspices of Sheikh Muhanna bin Seif al Lamki, Governor of Al Batinah North, in the presence of Orpic CEO Musab al Mahruqi, walis and sheikhs from Al Batinah North, and other dignitaries in addition to the students who have been awarded Orpic International Scholarships and their parents.

"At Orpic, we are very keen to provide the best training and support to our human resource personnel so they can keep up-to-date with the latest developments in their specialist areas, so that they can better carry out their assignments, increasing productivity. Each year we also take on more than a hundred trainees in the company to give them hands-on experience. The best of those trainees are then offered with employment opportunities at our facilities, said Nofal al Saidi, General Manager of Human Resources Services.

`We decided to award these scholarships to outstanding male and female students from Al Batinah North. This scheme mirrors our commitment to support local communities and provide talented students with opportunities to study at some of the world’s elite universities. This ensures that they return to Oman equipped with the required tools to add value to their communities, he added.

Said al Hashmi, Orpic’s Training Center manager said, “The Orpic International Scholarships programme seeks to provide Omani students with opportunities for study at the most renowned universities in the world and allow their talents to develop and grow in a competitive education environment. Orpic allocates US$10 million for the program which will offer 10 scholarships annually for five years ”

“Orpic, in collaboration with Takatuf Oman, marketed this programme to Al Batinah North schools earlier in the year. Takatuf Oman has played an active role in the selection of students; using its experience in this field especially with Takatuf Pioneers Programme. The cooperation between Orpic and Takatuf Oman seeks to achieve one aim, namely to serve local communities,” he added.

Orpic International Scholarships Programme, which provides Al Batinah North Governorate students with opportunities for study, provides full scholarships for two study periods; the first for two years during which the student will prepare for a further four years of university. After completing their studies, students will have university degrees and experience that will mark them out as leaders in their career development.
US $
Orpic is proud of supplying the Sultanate’s needs for fuel products. Orpic is making focused on developing local communities and investing in the progress of Omani students. Its International Scholarships Programme is solid evidence of the company commitment to the development of the local communities that it neighbours. As a result, more talented Omani students will have the opportunity to study at some of the most prestigious universities in the world and return to their local areas with abilities and knowledge that will help them become active players in the Sultanate’s continuous development process.

Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company) and a consortium of 21 international and national financial institutions held a signing ceremony in Muscat on Wednesday for a US$ 2.8 billion loan arranged for Orpic’s projects including the the Suhar Refinery Improvement Project (SRIP) which will be 65% debt financed.. The loan agreements were signed on behalf of Orpic by H.E. Dr. Mohammed bin Hamad Al Rumhy, Minister of Oil and Gas and Chairman of Orpic, and Musab Abdullah Al Mahruqi, Orpic’s Chief Executive Officer. The agreements were also signed on behalf of Orpic shareholder by H.E. Nasser bin Khamis Al Jashmi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance, and Mulham bin Basheer Al Jarf, Deputy CEO of Oman Oil Company.

The signing ceremony was also attended by a number of government officials, board members and senior management of both parties.

H.E. Dr. Mohammed bin Hamad Al Rumhy said: “This is a significant moment for both Orpic and the nation on two counts. It demonstrates the considerable appetite there is for international investment in Oman’s Oil and Gas sector, and at the same time a step further in maximizing the added value of the Omani crude.”
Commenting on the signing ceremony Musab Al Mahruqi, Orpic’s Chief Executive Officer said: “It is a reflection of the robustness of our business, the viability of our vision, and the commitment we have demonstrated that such a grouping of significant banks and financial institutions has come together to provide the financing required for a multibillion dollar project. We have proved that we are a business worthy of significant investment as we continue to transform Orpic in the coming five years”. 

Nazar Al Lawati, Orpic’s Chief Financial Officer who led the negotiations for agreements said: “The financing is one of the largest in Oman with a unique hybrid finance structure that will support the attainment of several of Orpic’s finance strategy objectives. The Export Credit Agencies (ECAs) and other lenders have demonstrated their commitment to and confidence in Orpic’s growth strategy”.
“Attracting a consortium of eminent international financial institutions to sponsor the Suhar Refinery Improvement Project reflects the viability of the Omani market and Orpic’s credible and strong position in the regional and international markets,” Nazar added.

SRIP is also a brownfield project and represents a significant technical improvement to the existing refinery, which will further enhance its capabilities to cope with the changes in the quality of the Omani crude, reach international levels with regard to environmental improvements, competitiveness and profitability, thus making the project very attractive to investors.

Financial Institutions
The consortium is made of a number of local banks namely Bank Muscat, National Bank of Oman, Al Ahli Bank, Bank Dhofar, Bank Suhar, and Oman Arab Bank.
The consortium also includes international financial institutes namely, the Korean ECAs (KExim and KSure), Italian ECA (Sace), HSBC, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, KFW IPEX Bank, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, Qatar National Bank, The Saudi National Commercial Bank, National Bank of Abu Dhabi, Standard Chartered Bank, Arab Banking Corporation, Arab Petroleum Investment Corporation, Ahli United Bank and Arab Bank.

Upgrading Suhar Refinery
The importance of the improvement project stems from the fact that it will help Suhar Refinery overcome the existing technical constraints resulting from the change in the quality of the Oman Export Blend (OEB), meet the increasing demand for refined products, support the industrial development initiatives of the Government of the Sultanate of Oman, and drive the integration of Orpic’s Suhar complex to a new level.
As part of the project, SRIP will improve the Residue Fluidized Catalytic Cracker (RFCC) unit feed quality to meet design parameters, meet the polymer grade propylene demand of the polypropylene plant, maximize additional gasoline and diesel production, ensure that all Suhar Refinery fuel products are in conformity with Euro IV norms and meet current product specifications where these are better than Euro IV, produce naphtha of desired quality for the Aromatics plant, and equip the refinery with the necessary tools to become capable of producing bitumen and petroleum coke.
Following the completion of SRIP, the Suhar Refinery will be a high conversion refinery using RFCC (existing), and five new unites such as hydrocracking (new) and coking (new) to achieve a zero fuel oil yield, with the majority of products being high value transportation fuels or petrochemical feedstock. With the new improvements the refinery will have more flexibility to handle unexpected changes in OEB quality. The hydrocracker provides a means to upgrade the quality of residue feedstock to the RFCC.

Meeting Domestic Needs
SRIP will also enable Orpic to meet the domestic growing needs for gasoline in the near and far future. The existing refinery at Suhar, which first started operation in 2006, has a crude oil processing capacity of 116,400 barrels per day of OEB crude oil. The new units that will be built as a part of SRIP will add a further 82 kbpd of OEB crude oil processing capacity, to achieve a total refining capacity of 198 kpbd. Crude throughput of the refinery will increase by 70% with increased product yields for diesel (90%), gasoline (37%), Jet Fuel (93%), LPG (91%), Naphtha (175%) and Propylene (44%).
SRIP will be located at the Suhar Industrial Port, complementing the existing Suhar Refinery, which was commissioned in 2006. Orpic estimates a requirement of 500 new personnel for SRIP. The company will follow a blended resourcing strategy hiring fresh graduates and experienced individuals as well as capitalizing on the existing company’s personnel. Orpic has been gearing up for this through its successful fresh graduate program, which sees over 100 trainees a year entering a program of up to 18 months.

Environmental Importance
Integrated within SRIP is a series of environmental upgrades which will meet the Omani regulations on environmental protection and pollution prevention. In addition, applicable international regulations, such as those contained in the environmental directives of European Union (EU) and environmental standards provided by United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) will be used as appropriate to ensure that the technology, equipment and operations selected for SRIP are capable of meeting national and international environmental requirements. In addition, SRIP will take into account the Guidance Notes issued by the Suhar Environmental Unit (SEU) for management of materials and wastes, industrial safety and the EIA study for the industries within the SIPA. Orpic has also elected to meet the following international environmental standards: IFC Performance Standards on Social & Environmental Sustainability, and World Bank Group Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) Guidelines.

In-Country Value
As well as the integration of environmental processes within SRIP, In-Country Value has also been incorporated to ensure that whenever possible the value of the project becomes directed to local businesses and communities. Meetings have already been held between the major contractors and local and national suppliers, and further meetings are planned for subcontractors in the near future.  

Orpic and its Future Plans
Orpic was established as Oman’s largest integrated refinery and petrochemical complex and the sole supplier of refined oil products by the restructuring of the three companies; ORPC, AOL and OPP. Orpic is responsible for arranging the sale of refined products to the marketing companies engaged in distribution of petroleum products to local consumers and for the construction, maintenance and operation of the facilities and depots providing means of refined products distribution in the Sultanate of Oman. In addition, Orpic is engaged in the production and sales of aromatics and polypropylene products from its downstream petrochemical complex.

In this role, Orpic is  the nation’s company specialising in refining and petrochemicals, and is currently a central player in the Government’s strategy to consolidate and modernise the oil and petrochemicals industry in the Sultanate of Oman.
Orpic is developing two additional major projects, which are at design stage, namely the Liwa Plastics Project (LPP) and the Muscat-Suhar Product Pipeline (MSPP). LPP is a steam cracker project to improve value added by processing light ends produced in Orpic’s Suhar refinery and aromatics plant as well as optimize NGLs extracted from the natural gas. It will bring new business opportunities and employment in the Sultanate of Oman, and firmly establish Orpic as a significant player within the Arabian Gulf and on the international stage. The project is on schedule for completion during 2018.
It will enable the Sultanate of Oman to produce, for the first time, polyethylene, the form of plastic that enjoys the highest demand globally. Upon completion of the project, plastics production is expected to have increased by 1 million tonnes, giving Orpic a total of 1.4 million tonnes of polyethylene and polypropylene production by 2018. The company’s revenue will grow following LPP and the profitability will double.

The MSPP involves a 280km pipeline between Muscat and Suhar for the transporting of refined products and will include a large storage & distribution terminal in Jifnain, north of Muscat. It will also connect directly to Muscat International Airport for delivery of jet fuel. The key benefits and objective of the project is to improve the efficiency and safety of transportation of refined products by pipeline, thereby reducing vehicular tanker trucks and ship tankers between Muscat and Suhar. The project is due for completion in 2016/2017.

Orpic was a strong presence at the recent Career Fair organized by Suhar College of Applied Sciences from 7th to 9th April. With the company looking to attract and recruit numbers of university and college graduates throughout the Sultanate over the coming years for the three significant projects it has under way, the fair was seen as a good way to expose potential employees to the company’s values, activities and the career and training opportunities available.

Over 30 private and public sectors companies participated in the 3-day Career Fair, which attracted huge numbers of students and visitors. Orpic’s stand alone had over 2,500 visitors keen to learn more about the company. In addition to the Training Centre and Human Resources staff who were at visitors’ disposal, a technical expert was on hand to provide further detail to those interested. The company also provided brochures and leaflets as well as video information.

In May, Orpic is due to announce its new intake of fresh graduates who will be put through a programme that lasts up to 18 months before they officially join the company. The training is extensive with the individuals assigned to various departments and functions within the company. Last year 110 graduates were taken on board, with the number expected to be higher this year. The Suhar career fair forms part of a 3 event strategy from the company’s Human Resources Department, with the third event being the upcoming JobEx Fair in Muscat (23-26 April) at which the company hopes to generate more interest among Omani students.

At a meeting held last week in Suhar, local suppliers within the North Al Batinah region were given the opportunity to find out more about how they can become involved in Orpic’s US$2.7 billion Suhar Refinery Improvement Project (SRIP).

Petrofac, engineering, construction and procurement (EPC) contractors for the project, which is slated to be finished in 2016, organized the event. It was designed to demonstrate the business opportunities that will become available over the coming few months for the following categories: catering, local recruitment for administration, security, IT services, general maintenance, accommodation, vehicle hiring, medical facilities, stationery suppliers, personal protective equipment (PPE) supply, drinking water and diesel supply.

The meeting was well attended, with Orpic making it clear that there would be a roster of similar roads shows, run by the project’s sub-contractors, over the coming months. The roadshow dates will be made public shortly. Orpic’s intention is to give local vendors every opportunity to participate in the project’s future, whether directly with the company, or through the contractor and sub-contractor network.
Orpic would like to encourage all local vendors to participate by registering on our website (www.orpic.om) in order to be invited to all the upcoming road shows.

On Thursday 20th March, 2014, Orpic hosted educational Institutions representatives from across the regions as they attended the Orpic & Universities: Challenging & Opportunities Workshop at Orpic’s Training Center. The purpose of this gathering was to discuss the challenges, opportunities and share ideas for future cooperation between Orpic and the institutions of Sultan Qaboos University, Suhar University , Nizwa University, College of Applied Science Suhar, Nizwa & Shinas Colleges of Technology, Higher college of Technology & International Maritime College Oman.
The gathering was hosted by Orpic’s GM, Human Resource Services, Mr. Nofal Al Saidi and facilitated by the Training Center Team. It comprised workshops and discussions designed to get ideas flowing and to help universities and industries build cooperation and overcome the obstacles that exist toeducating and equipping skilled and talented Omani students to match the needs of the industrial sector.
The guests were introduced to the Orpic business, experience and future improvements projects in addition to the opportunities that Orpic offers to fresh graduates in form of new intakes and internships. Members of Orpic’s Operations & Maintenance departments highlighted the challenges and skills required for The oil & gas industry, and how Orpic trainees share their journey through the Trainees’ Development Programme, and the positive impact it had on their knowledge and experience.
The outcomes of the workshop stressed short and long term plans; the review and design of Internship programmes, offering research insights for problems within the industrial process, delivery of technical topics to the students at colleges, and activation of an industrial link committee. The day was a great success, full of energy and exciting ideas for the future.

Ali al Amri, Orpic’s Security Team Leader at its Suhar Refinery, has broken new ground by becoming the very first from the Middle East to receive a prestigious new security management qualification. Ali was recently presented with his Level 6 CSMP Diploma Award in Reading, UK, by Raymond Clarke, CEO of the Awarding Body IQ (Industry Qualifications). Ali is one of the first group of successful certificants to receive this prestigious award.
The CSMP (Certified Security Management Professional) programme, conducted by ISMI Certification and lead by David Cresswell,  was introduced in January 2013 and has become one of the most keenly sought after qualifications in security management around the world, with participants now from over 80 countries.  It is a very challenging programme designed for existing and aspiring security management professionals.  It develops and assesses not only knowledge, but also the students’ competence in the application of security management principles and concepts.   The programme comprises 12 modules, each addressing a different area of security management in a generally corporate context.
“It was a challenging course,” said Ali, “but certainly worth the effort. We are encouraged and supported at Orpic to pursue our own learning paths, rather than simply wait for training. I felt it was important for me to be aiming for leading edge certification, and the CSMP diploma is certainly that. ”
Ali was part of a cohort of almost 100 students who enrolled in January 2013, amongst whom were other experienced security managers in some of the world’s best known companies.   According to ISMI, his enthusiasm for professional development in security management, coupled with his hard work, enabled him to produce assignments of a high standard, thus rewarding him with the coveted title, CSMP.

Suhar, 20th March: In the countdown to the award of Liwa Plastics Project (LPP), Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company) has announced the award of two major contracts. They are for the Project Management Company (PMC), and the Front End Engineering and Design (FEED), which includes the cracker licence. The former was picked up by Engineers India Limited (EIL) of New Delhi, and the latter by the Chicago Bridge & Iron Company (CB & I) operating out of The Hague, Netherlands. This is a clear demonstration of how rapidly LPP is becoming a reality, keeping well on track with its swift schedule. LPP is the largest project of its type in Oman and is valued at US$3.6 billion.
12 companies were asked to tender for the PMC contract, in a rigorous and diligent process that began in August/September 2013, before EIL emerged as Orpic’s choice.
The FEED and Cracker licence process began at around the same time and included the only four companies worldwide which have the licensed technology to take on a specialized project of LPP’s size and complexity. CB & I’s FEED contract will lead into the tendering stage for LPP’s Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC), with one of the FEED stipulations being that the decision on pre-qualifying companies should be finalised before the end of 2014. The plant will be established in Suhar Industrial Port Area, adjacent to Orpic’s refinery and petrochemical plants. 

“The award of these contracts is an indication of the momentum that LPP is beginning to build,” said Musab Al Mahruqi, Orpic CEO, “the project is moving rapidly forward and we are determined to deliver on LPP’s promise for Orpic and for Oman. It will transform our company and deliver a ripple of economic value to the nation.”
LPP is scheduled for completion in 2018 and expected to double Orpic’s profitability through extracting significantly more value from every barrel of Omani crude and molecule of gas. The project, which revolves around a steam cracker unit, will enable Orpic to produce polypropylene and, for the first time, polyethylene, the plastic most in demand globally, which will boost Oman’s export earnings. At the same time and with additional production of 1 million tonnes of plastics, the country’s downstream plastics industry will have the opportunity to grow, with the promise of more downstream industries, additional employment, and overall additional In-Country Value.
LPP will also result in direct employment by Orpic through the construction and operational phases of the project. Over 350 operators will be required on a permanent basis as well as 150 technicians, with 7,000 FTEs (Full Time Equivalents) during the construction stages.
With the completion of LPP, Orpic will be producing a total of 1.4 million metric tonnes of polyethylene and polypropylene a year. In addition to the steam cracker, five other components combine to make up LPP. Three different plastics plants (Polypropylene, Linear Low Density Polyethylene and High Density Polyethylene) will be constructed, as well as a natural gas extraction plant in Fahud and a 300km pipeline from there to the Suhar complex.
Approval for LPP’s natural gas allocation was received from the Ministry of Oil and Gas in 2013.

As part of its commitment to serving the community, Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Company) has donated OMR 20,000 to cover the cost of Positive Air Pressure devices for 60 patients who suffer from “Sleep Apnea disorder” at Sultan Qaboos University’s Hospital (SQU). This initiative, originating from the company’s contributions and donations programme, aims to help these patients who are in need of support. It is also part of the company’s commitment to social responsibility and to effective participation in society through the provision of suitable support to a variety of social groups. The project was set up as a result of meetings between Dr. Abdullah Rashid Al Asmi, General Manager SQU Hospital and Dr. Hilal Abdullah Al Hinai, General Manager Corporate Support Services, Orpic.

Sleep Apnea disorder is widespread and characterized by continuous pauses in breathing or instances of shallow or infrequent breathing during sleep. This causes a complete block of airflow and reduction of Oxygen levels in the blood. Apnea is connected to snoring and it causes lack of sleep and frequent sleep disturbance during the night. It is associated with many cases of daytime sleepiness while driving which may lead to car accidents. Common effects of sleep apnea include daytime fatigue, a slower reaction time, and vision problems. With Orpic’s support, the patients will receive medical intervention and healthcare through this this device.
Sleep Apnea is also dangerous as it can lead to high blood pressure, which is closely associated with cardiac diseases and arrests and possibility of getting diabetes.  

As part of its commitment to scientific research, particularly in areas that relate to the environment, Orpic has funded a research project by a group of students from the Department of Chemical Engineering within Suhar University’s Engineering College. The project aims to explore a new area of wastewater treatment through a study of the utilization of locally available and low-cost Sarooj clay to remove Boron. The project specifically targets Boron contamination in underground water and excessive boron levels in sea water in the desalination process, both of which are serious issues in Oman. High boron levels result in the reduction of root cell division, retarded root growth, the inhibition of photosynthesis, and a decrease in leaf chlorophyll. In most crops, the symptoms of boron toxicity manifest as burned edges on older leaves, yellowing of the leaf tips, accelerated decay, and ultimately the death of the affected plant.

Social significance of the project
This research project will bring a variety of benefits through technology development and knowledge gain. The students participating in the project will gain in-depth knowledge on the relevant techniques and applications.

Being at the cutting edge of such a new technology will also undoubtedly assist the students in any search for future employment within the industries interested in implementing this technology. From the perspective of the university’s technical staff, they will get hands-on experience invaluable to their own knowledge acquisition. From a broader societal position methods of boron removal from the environment that emerge from projects such as this one will be important in reducing inlet pollution levels at desalination plants. The fact that Sarooj mud is freely available in Oman brings an important local dimension to the project.

 As part of its primary commitment to safety, Orpic has been participating at the Civil Defence Symposium & Expo this week at the Al Bustan Palace Hotel, which this year focused on the prevention and containment of industrial fires. Orpic staff from its Fire Fighting and Health, Safety and Environment departments were present at the symposium.

The company also had a presence at the exhibition that partnered the symposium, giving it a chance to demonstrate to visitors its commitment to fire safety issues and inform on the resources that Orpic has at its disposal to handle fires.

Amongst the company’s firefighting assets are fire engines, foam systems/foam pourers, deluge systems, fire hydrants, fixed monitors, flame detectors, fire detection systems, and active and passive gas monitoring systems.

In order to cope with emergencies, Orpic has established procedures which ensure that it can respond with the appropriate level of response. There are Emergency Control Rooms in both its Muscat and Suhar refineries, and simulations are carried out on a regular basis. The company also maintains close links with neighbouring companies to provide mutual support, and with Civil Defence. Orpic is also a member of JOIFF, the global organization for Fire Hazard Management.

Orpic’s participation in GPCA Waste Free Day turns into a week-long cleanup for 3 villages; 500 metric tonnes cleared.
 
As part of the Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association’s Gulf-wide Waste Free Day three villages in North Al Batinah received a week’s worth of clean-up, courtesy of Orpic, the local municipality and around 50 helpers. A combination of volunteers and support from the Liwa Municipality enabled over 500 metric tonnes of rubbish and debris to be removed from Ghadfan, Al Had and Ghuzayel villages. The programme started on the 20th February and continued for a week.
 
Those participating helped by involving themselves in general cleaning, re-painting designated refuse bins that were defaced or discoloured, removing agricultural waste and also construction debris. The Liwa Municipality fully supported the programmes and provided tippers and loaders to help remove the accumulated rubbish.
 
Commenting on the Waste Free Day, Majid Al Saidi, Environmental Engineer at Orpic,  said, “we are very proud to be a part of GPCA’s Waste Free initiative. This is the first time that we have contributed to this Gulf-wide event, and we hope that the villages in which we worked will feel the benefit from the clean-up activity. Once we started planning the event we thought we could turn it into a week and increase the impact.”
                                                                                                        
Orpic is a member of the GPCA, which represents the interests of the petrochemicals and chemicals industries in the Arabian Gulf.

Oman’s national oil refining and petrochemical company, Orpic, reported its current position and looked forward to the next five years in a presentation given today to media at the Ministry of Oil and Gas by its CEO, Musab Al Mahruqi.

Following a year which featured a planned shutdown of the Suhar Refinery and focus on an environmental improvement plan, the company reported significant improvements in environmental performance and the achievement of key milestones in its future growth projects.

Safety record continues
With over 1600 employees, Orpic’s safety record continued at an exemplary level. 2013 saw just one LTI (Lost Time Injury) to a contractor employee during the Suhar Refinery Turnaround, during which Suhar Refinery had over 1500 contractors working on the project. Orpic’s three other plants continued to build their safety sequences: Mina Al Fahal Refinery passed 3 years without an LTI, and the Aromatics and Polypropylene plants 4 and 6 years respectively. In terms of Lost Time Incident Rate (LTIR) the company performed at a creditable 0.04 compared to CONCAWE’s European benchmark of 0.11. To support the continuation of this record, Orpic devoted over 10,000 hours to HSE training during 2013.   

Processing and manufacturing
In terms of processing, Orpic processed around  56 mn barrels of Oman’s Export Blend during 2013 which is equivalent to  17% of total country’s production, with the remainder exported. Mina Al Fahal Refinery witnessed a record level increase in its crude processing level at 36.4mn barrels over 2012’s 30.8mn barrels, whereas Suhar Refinery levels came down from 27.7mn barrels in 2012 to 19.4mn barrels as a result of the planned shutdown. Overall processing was therefore reduced from 58.5mn barrels to 56mn barrels. As a result, fuels production figures for LPG, Gasoline M-90 and M-95, Gas Oil (Diesel) and Jet-A1 were also less than 2012, although the sales levels for these products outstripped local demand except in the cases of Diesel and Gasoline.

Petrochemical production levels for 2013 over 2012 increased for Paraxylene (710kMT vs 700kMT) and Benzene (219kMT vs 165kMT), but fell for Polypropylene (159kMT vs 219kMT) which was impacted in terms of feedstock availability from Suhar Refinery. .

In term of the operational performance of the four Orpic facilities, Mina Al Fahal Refinery (92% vs 80%) and Aromatics Plant (84% vs 78%) both increased their capacity performance over 2012, with Suhar Refinery and Polypropylene plant (70% vs 90%) and (43% vs 59%) operating at lower capacity levels than the previous year due to the planned shutdown of Suhar Refinery for regular maintenance activity.

Orpic Financial Performance
Orpic’s profitability is largely impacted by the production levels of its facilities and the relative international market prices for the various refined petroleum products and petrochemicals.  In 2013, and despite healthy oil prices above USD 100/bbl, the international refining margins were lower than levels seen in 2012 and 2011.

Orpic buys its feedstock requirement from crude oil at prevailing international prices and all local sales of Orpic are made to local marketing companies at regulated prices, with the Government compensating Orpic directly for the difference between the fixed prices and prevailing international prices.

While the refining margins were low, the petrochemical margins were healthy with Aromatics contributing over 223 mn USD to the total Gross Margin of Orpic in 2013 (394 mn USD).

In 2013, Over 70% of Orpic’s revenue comes from local sales of refined products while the rest of revenue is derived from export of both refined products and petrochemicals, mainly Paraxylene, Benzene and Polypropylene.

Environmental Achievements
2013 saw the successfully renewal of required Environmental Permits issued by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs (MECA). The ongoing effect of Orpic’s Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP), first established in 2011, led to further milestones in 2013 across a number of areas. Flaring levels at Suhar refinery were reduced by over 60% from 2011, and SOx emissions fell to a level 80% lower than 2012. A Hazardous and Non-Hazardous Industrial Waste Storage Facility was inaugurated within the Orpic Suhar Complex, so the materials it handles no longer have to be stored in offsite facilities. A Hotline was established so that the local community could report incidents that were affecting them by calling directly through to the operations team in the Suhar Refinery main control room, allowing rapid investigation should it be necessary. During the rebuild of the Suhar Refinery’s Wet Gas Scrubber the opportunity was taken to upgrade its function. In addition, for 2014, Orpic will be reporting its environmental performance for the Suhar Refinery in the national print media on a monthly basis. The January figures for all ambient air quality readings (Nitrogen dioxide, Sulphur dioxide, Carbon monoxide and Particulates) all range between 40% and 96% below MECA’s limit, with SOx emissions 68% below the limit, and 100% compliance with the required standard for cooling water discharge to the sea.

Orpic’s People
With projects that will see its workforce of 1600 being increased by over 1000 skilled positions over the next  five years, Orpic’s people are a priority for the company. With the Omanisation rate at over 70%, training and recruitment are areas of prime focus, and in 2013 some major undertakings began to happen. The company’s first batch of 110 graduates completed their 18-month training period in May, and towards the end of the year the next group began their programme. Over the coming years the numbers of graduate engineers and technicians entering Orpic will rise further up to addition 500 trainees in the next 5 years, but there will also be an increased requirement for those involved in support functions as well. At the management level, the Arriyadah Leadership Development Programme started its year-long journey for over 150 senior staff, while the company welcomed over 300 interns to a variety of departments for several weeks of job experience.

Suppliers, Community and CSR
Understanding its responsibilities to stakeholders, in 2013 Orpic ratcheted up its commitment to groups that hold important relationships and partnerships with the company. In addition to the local purchasing levels that Orpic has set for the country and for the Al Batinah region, the company joined the MOG ICV initiative that supports local entrepreneurs through sponsorship of business-building projects. Orpic is now involved in three such projects; tank maintenance and cleaning, scaffolding manufacture and servicing, and compound chemical procurement.

Suppliers will also have an easier time now in discovering and participating in the Orpic tendering process. As part of the revamp of the company website (orpic.om) a special section has been added where tenders can be viewed throughout their lifecycle, with insights and details on the processes, along with a question and answer booklet. This was prepared for the successful 2nd Orpic Vendor Symposium, which took place in December 2013, and which will be repeated at least once in 2014.

Orpic’s strong relationship with Jusoor, its social investment arm, continued in 2013, while the company also invested in direct projects and programmes with the communities that neighbour the Suhar Complex. In 2013, Jusoor announced an investment in a Drugs Rehabilitation Centre in Suhar. An OMR 1.6 million project under development with the Ministry of Health the drug rehabilitation project will be constructed by Jusoor and operated by Ministry of Health. It is the first of its kind in Oman. Other sponsorships and social projects were implemented by Jusoor in Northern Al Batinah Governorate to cover areas of culture, professional education, sports and volunteerism.

During the year over 1,500 visitors were welcomed into the Suhar Visitor Centre – 50% above the projected target. Visits were organised for community leaders to Holland, Hungary and Slovakia to learn about locations where refining operations and local communities exist in close proximity and enjoy longstanding close relations. At the year end, Orpic’s own Ehsan team won a competition run by Jusoor to judge the best developed and executed community programme.

In the field of education Orpic initiated the Orpic International Scholarships, an elite programme designed to give an unequalled learning experience annually to 50 bright and motivated students from the north Al Batinah governorate. Associated with the Takatuf Scholars Programme, the Orpic scheme sees those students chosen on academic criteria completing their school education with two years at boarding school in the UK or US, before going on to four years of college at some of the most highly regarded universities in the world. The programme is designed to develop the next generation of Omani business and government leaders.

Reporting
In 2013 Orpic issued its first Sustainability Report, an important moment in its progress towards its stated desire to improve the transparency inside the organisation. The 2013 report is currently being prepared and will be issued in mid-2014.

In addition, Orpic’s environmental reporting has taken a new direction with the recognition that the company should be responsible not only to the authorities that govern environmental issues, MECA and the Suhar Environmental Unit, but also to the general public. With this target in mind, the company will be reporting its environmental performance on a monthly basis throughout the year through a series of placements in the national print media.

Communications
Over 2013 a variety of new communications media were developed for both internal and external audiences. Orpic’s Facebook site (www.facebook.com\orpic) was given more attention and generated more content and news. An Orpic App was created for iPhone, iPad and Android use. The company website has been revamped to include features such as the tendering and posting of job vacancies, as well as links through to the Orpic International Scholars website (Takatuf) and to forms that will enable students to apply for internships with the company.

On the electronic media side a corporate video and the company’s first television commercial were produced, and the latter aired during the second half of the year. A new digital signage system has been installed throughout the company sites, and is currently being tested. A new quarterly physical magazine, Orpic Today, was also introduced to sit alongside the internal magazine, Inside Orpic, and caters to the local community.

Future Strategic Plans 2014-18
Three major projects will transform Orpic over the next five years as it develops from a secure refining operation to a fully-fledged integrated refining and petrochemicals player.

The Suhar Refinery Improvement Project (SRIP) will increase the refinery’s ability process heavier crude, reduce environmental emissions and develop the Suhar Complex’s integration. As a result current production levels will be raised by 70%, the naphtha and propylene will be provided to enable the Aromatics and Polypropylene to operate at greater capacities, and fuels production levels will increase by 4.2mn tonnes a year, reaching 13mn tonnes in 2016. Orpic will also be able to produce bitumen for the first time. The main EPC contract for SRIP was signed in December with Daelim and Petrofac and the project will be completed by end 2016.

The Muscat-Suhar Product Pipeline (MSPP) adds considerable flexibility to Orpic’s operations, consisting of a 290km 2-way multiproduct fuels pipeline system between the Muscat and Suhar operations. It will also connect to a strategic storage facility at Jifnain, Muscat Governate, with a pipeline spur directly to the new Muscat International Airport, enabling jet refuelling to take place using a ‘closed’ system, rather than tankers. Within Muscat itself the pipeline will see tanker traffic reduced by 70%. MSPP’s elements are scheduled to be completed in 2017.

The Liwa Plastics Project (LPP) involves the construction of a steam cracker and associated units which will enable Orpic to produce two new types of plastics, HDPE and LLDPE, along with greater polypropylene production. It will take its feedstock from existing refinery light ends and C2+ from Oman’s natural gas production, the allocation of which was approved by the government in 2013. LPP will also help to optimise refinery and petrochemical integration leading to improved motor gasoline sales and an increase in benzene production. LPP is expected to be commissioned in 2018.

The combination of the three projects represents a growth strategy that revolves around increased integration within the manufacturing complex, and the production of a broader slate of petrochemical products that will enable Orpic to extract far more value from a barrel of Omani oil than it can do at present. The three investments will require over USD 7bn of funding of which around 70% will be from local and international banks. The three projects will enhance the profitability of Orpic and generate returns for its shareholders. Orpic’s growth strategy will create more jobs in this sector and be able to support an Omani downstream plastics industry that will add further value to the national economy, while also becoming a bigger player in the international plastics market, earning export dollars for the country. 

Muscat, 22 January: At a ceremony today in Muscat, Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company) and Compa??a Log?stica de Hidrocarburos CLH, of Spain, officially launched Orpic Logistics Company (OLC), a joint venture between the two parties.

The agreement was signed from the Omani side by H.E. Dr. Mohammed bin Hamed Al Rumhy, Minister of Oil and Gas and Chairman of Orpic, with Se?or José Luis L?pez de Silanes, Chairman of CLH representing the Spanish partner. The official signing formalities took place in the presence of board members and senior management of both companies, as well as the Spanish Ambassador, H.E. Juan José Urtasun.

OLC has been established first and foremost to construct the Muscat-Suhar Product Pipeline (MSPP), and consists of three key elements; a 280km multiproduct pipeline between Orpic`s Mina Al Fahal Refinery and its Suhar complex; a terminal in Jifnain, in Muscat governate; and a direct pipeline link from Jifnain to Muscat International Airport. MSPP is one of three major projects, the others being the Suhar Refinery Improvement Project and the Liwa Plastics Project, which Orpic is engaged in over the next four years.

"This is a significant project on a number of levels," said Musab Al Mahruqi, Orpic CEO, "as a multiproduct pipeline it is a first for Oman, a complex transportation system that will have a positive impact for the business overall and specifically in environmental. The Jifnain terminal is a strategic storage facility, capable of responding to emergency situations should it be necessary. And the direct link to the new airport will mean that aircraft will be refueled through a closed system, guaranteeing a continuous flow 24 hours a day, rather than having to use fuel tankers. We strongly believe that this project is strategically important for Oman."

The pipeline will transport four types of fuel, premium and regular gasoline, diesel and jet A1 for aircraft, using a computer controlled buffering system to separate product streams. It also has two way functionality, enabling products to be sent to or from Orpic`s refineries and the strategic storage facility in Jifnain.

From the environmental perspective the project will have significant benefits, particularly in Muscat. Currently fuels are tankered by road out of the Mina Al Fahal Refinery and through the city. The new pipeline will reduce traffic on the roads in Muscat and up to Al Batinah, the potential for accidents involving tankers, and the carbon footprint. The tanker numbers will be reduced by 70%, giving significant relief to the capital`s traffic. At the airport, aircraft will be pump-filled on their stands, as at a gas station, rather than relying on tankers coming to them, something which has important safety benefits. With the Jifnain terminal, Orpic will have created a national fuel reserve for emergencies, whether caused by technical interruptions or adverse weather.

OLC is scheduled to complete the pipeline connection between Mina Al Fahal Refinery, Suhar Refinery and the airport by 2016.

Orpic (Oman National Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company) celebrated the official opening of a new facility that demonstrates its continuous commitment to environmental improvement. The ribbon-cutting ceremony for The Hazardous/Non-Hazardous Waste Storage Centre was conducted by Orpic Board member Ali bin Abdullah Al Riyami - DG of Marketing, Ministry of Oil and Gas, who was accompanied by board member, Dr. Saleh bin Ali Al Anboori - DG of Petroleum Investments, Ministry of Oil and Gas, and Orpic CEO Musab Al-Mahruqi, whilst on a tour of Orpic’s Suhar complex.

Commenting on the new, in-house facility, Musab Al Mahruqi said, “This is further evidence of the effectiveness of our Environmental Improvement Plan. We recently announced the significant improvements that have been made in the areas of Gas Flaring and Sulphur Dioxide emissions, and like them, this facility is part of a carefully planned programme.  It enables us to temporarily store used materials and release them from within our own complex.  It is set up as a warehouse, segregating different waste types.”
 
The Hazardous/Non-Hazardous Waste Centre consists of a number of separated areas for the different types of waste that emerge from the process of turning crude oil into a range of pure products ready for consumer use. Three separate areas, one of them covered, take up 4,000 square metres of space for hazardous materials, and 5,000 square metres is devoted to non-hazardous waste.

Much of the waste that is produced by the refining process can be recycled by other industrial processes. The used catalyst that converts heavy oil fractions into light oil, for instance, which amounts to a considerable proportion of the industrial waste generated, can be re-used in the cement industry.

On Wednesday 4th December 2013, a closing ceremony for the Jusoor Voluntary Awards was held under the patronage of His Excellency Dr. Yahya Bin Bader Al Mawali, Under Secretary - Ministry of Social Development. The Jusoor Voluntary Award is a competition aiming to encourage voluntary social activities amongst the three founding companies of Jusoor (Suhar Aluminum, Orpic, Vale).
Following the announcement of the competition in August, nine teams were created to compete against each other with their own various volunteering projects. At the ceremony, the competition’s winner was revealed to be Ehsan Voluntary Team (from Orpic). Ehsan’s team members are Eng. Waheed bin Ibrahim Al Kindly, Hilal bin Said Al Maashari and Salim bin Mansoor Al Kindy. 
Ehsan Voluntary team’s aim was to develop new awareness methods in Road Safety in order to reduce road accidents and their impact. The campaign targeted several schools in Muscat which involved their students, teachers, school administration staff and drivers. Families from the schools were given the opportunity to visit an exhibition held at Orpic’s Mina Al Fahal premises, where road safety awareness methods were displayed that are designed to embed this culture in young people in an interesting and persuasive way. Serious statistics and facts on traffic, how accidents can be avoided and the responsibility of individuals to raise awareness were also topics that were on display. Awareness and information publications and leaflets were distributed with the cooperation of the Ministry of Education and ROP represented by the Traffic Safety Institute and their Public Relations department. In addition, the students engaged with the ROP Traffic Awareness buses and other awareness tools.     

The Suhar Refinery experienced odour emissions above the normal operational level today. This follows the electrical power failure on the 5th November, and an issue with one tower unit following restart.
 
Orpic’s plants have a number of environmental safeguards in place to minimise the odours that occur during the refining process. However, the release that caused the odour is due to ammonia removed from water not meeting specifications.
 
Ammonia carries an unpleasant smell, but is harmless in the low concentrations associated with this type of release. The odours are not dangerous and will not cause any harm to people.
 
Repair of the tower unit is proceeding, and other actions have been taken to ensure that emissions are minimal. We apologise for any inconvenience that has been caused to local residents.

Orpic Training Center arranged a “Women in Business” training programme for 20 Orpic female employees.
The training programme was held at the Crowne Plaza Suhar on the 27th and 28th of October 2013.
The programme provides opportunities for women in the Middle East to improve and develop their leadership skills in a highly interactive environment.

The programme focuses on individual development and is based on women working together to identify the best leadership solutions for the challenges faced in the region.
The employees participated in team building activities and took part in communication skill training, emotional intelligence training, negotiation skill training and business adequate training.

Among the trainees was Sabra Al Mahruqi a Commercial Coordinator for Orpic “I see a big difference in my communication skill and in my ability to stand out as a women leader in the industry after attending this programme” added Mss. Al Mahruqi
It is based on the premise that women can expand their business capabilities; they can learn, develop, and become more effective in their various roles.

Orpic has made the first move amongst Oman’s heavy industry sector by launching its own App for iPhone.
Available free from the online Apple store, the App has been designed to help people better understand Orpic and what it does. It features a variety of sections including Orpic’s Products, a Photo Gallery, Community and Newsletters, and allows users to drill down further to see what environmental programmes the company is running as well as its major developments  for the future, such as the Liwa Plastics Project and the Suhar Refinery Improvement Project.
“It’s the obvious way to bring people in Oman and around the world closer to what we do,” says Niyaz Al Balushi, who led the IT development process within Orpic, “they’ll have our latest information at their fingertips, wherever they are. We strongly believe that the community around us should have an easy, cutting edge way of connecting with us.”
The launch of the iPhone App is not the end of Orpic’s digital ambition, as iPad and Android versions are also in their final stages of development and should be released in the coming weeks. Together, these will all compliment the Facebook site that the company launched last year and the Orpic website (www.orpic.om), which is also currently undergoing a facelift.
A further feature of the App is a separate and secure area for Orpic employees. They will be able to tap into their own password-protected section of the App which will give them access to emailing, the company address book, company policies and other internal information.

Suhar, Oman: Orpic – Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company has revealed the progress it’s made with its Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) at the Suhar Refinery, one of the keystones in the company’s environmental programme. Over the past one and half years there have been a number of significant upgrades in the processes that handle the waste water emerging from the refinery operations.

As part of the refining process high temperature steam is used to separate the different elements within crude oil so that the full range of products, from kerosene to heavy diesel oil, can be manufactured. In doing so the steam picks up hydrocarbons, and once reconstituted as water must be treated before it can returned back to the sea. Some of the processes used to do this are complex biological ones which result in strong odours. And it’s here that Orpic has been targeting it efforts.

“As a start we cleaned and repaired all the basins that hold the waste water,” said Majid Al Saidi, Environment Engineer at Orpic, “and this was followed by introducing new bacteria to act on the water, with increased numbers over the previous level in order to increase the effectiveness.”In addition, permanent covers were placed over all seven tanks that are used in the treating the waste water to help prevent the escape of odours. More hi-tech equipment was installed in the shape ofe-noses which detect the level of odour being emitted, and a chemical agent which neutralizes smells was also introduced in to the process.

To address the issue of spent caustic that has become exhausted following use in the refining process, and which is also emits odours, aspecific treatment facility has also been added.“We are looking at a multipronged strategy here,” continued Majid,“which has been delivered with considerable energy over the past eighteen months. Altogether there are around 12 separate initiatives that have been implemented or are about to be. Not only have were paired, upgraded and added elements to the whole process, but we’ve also committed to increased resource. We now have a permanent waste water specialist to oversee every part of the current set-up and the developments for the future.”

The improvements have resulted in a significant decrease in the level of odours from the Waste Water Treatment Plant since 2012. A tender has also been floated for the next odour control phase in the project,what’s called the ‘end of pipe’ solution, which will be completed in2014. The Waste Water Treatment improvements form part of a number of key environmental projects that are under way at Orpic, from flare reduction to leak detection, and it has committed to inform on the progress of all of these.

Suhar: Orpic – Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company has disclosed how it coped with an incident earlier this year which without effective crisis management could have had a significant impact on the company’s business.

On 11th March, a fire took place at Orpic’s Suhar Refinery. It happened during the company’s planned shutdown of the refinery for maintenance during contractor work in the Wet Gas Scrubber (WGS). As a result the unit, which removes sulfur oxides from the gas created by there fining process, and is therefore a critical environmental process,was badly damaged.

Orpic immediately started work on a recovery plan. The long and short term challenges were identified. Chief amongst them were the rapid replacement of the major equipment that had been damaged and the sourcing of low sulfur cracker feedstock and a special Sulfur Oxide compounds removal catalyst, which in combination would allow the refinery to operate without the WGS while repairs were made.

According to Al Moatasam Al Yaqoubi, Team Leader in Engineering Services at Orpic, “we went into a 24/7 construction mode in order to ensure that no time was lost in replacing the WGS unit. One of the local potential vendors was approached and agreed to complete the fabrication and transportation of the WGS within a 62 day time frame, a target that was beaten by 7 days. That involved moving the 75 metric ton unit within Suhar Port from supplier’s yard to the final destination in the refinery.” The WGS is also 11 by 12 metres in size, so special preparations and permissions were obtained prior to transportation.

In fact 90% of the fabrication that was required to replace the damaged unit was completed in Oman. The WGS unit itself is due to bere-commissioned in mid-July with final completion of additional equipment by end of August 2013, and incorporates improvements that were originally scheduled to be completed during the planned shutdown. Once active again, the need for special catalyst and low sulfur cracker feedstock to ensure environmental safety will be over.

Summarizing, Al Moatasam said, “Whilst we would never have wished this to happen, it’s proven to us how effectively we can react to an incident of this significance. Our crisis management system worked well,and the recovery plan, with the support of our suppliers, although it stretched us all, has happened without a hitch.”

The WGS incident highlights the rapid recovery Orpic was able to make. However, it’s also underpinned by a theme of constant improvement with regard to environmental standards, of which the company now has a growing collection of examples.

Muscat: Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company) has launched a unique brand awareness campaign that revolves around the use of Oman Oil Marketing Company’s fuel tankers and filling stations, featuring the theme “Your fuel from our refineries”.

The concept behind the campaign was developed in collaboration with Oman Oil Marketing Company (Oman Oil) to raise public awareness of the products produced by Orpic from Omani crude oil.

The campaign’s key component is the use of fuel tankers which will generate itself interest among the public as well as banners at selected filling stations visited by motorists.

"Many people are unaware of who Orpic is, and the products we produce that touch literally every part of our daily lives," said Musab Al Mahruqi, CEO of Orpic "from gasoline to diesel, to jet fuel, and LPG. The new campaign is designed to complement the value and role Orpic plays in adding to Oman’s national resource, oil.”

Omar bin Ahmed Qatan, CEO of Oman Oil stated “Our retail network of 144 filling stations and our fleet of 11 tankers are the perfect vehicles to drive this campaign. Now in our 10th year, we have grown our presence across Oman and are proud to work with Orpic, together further ingraining our commitment to better serving and fuelling the country.”

The collaborative brand awareness campaign with Oman Oil is the first in a series of activities in a multi-faceted brand awareness campaign to showcase Orpic, Oman’s national refining and petrochemicals Company.

Orpic –Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company has further expand edits greening of the environment surrounding its Suhar operation through a new project that targets the refinery itself. Over 600 trees are being planted in a landscaping programme that centres on the refinery’s Waste Water Treatment plant.

“People do not normally associate oil refineries with landscaped gardens and trees,”said Abdullah Al Isaee, who headed the project, “but at present we have over 1,900 trees and shrubs within our complex. This new greenery will contribute significantly to the further beautification of the environment inside the plant. We already have large numbers of birds and butterflies who frequent the refinery area, and hope that this will encourage even more of them.”

The area chosen to plant the trees is close to the refinery’s Waste Water Treatment Plant and had no vegetation prior to the project. The WWT has been transformed recently by being covered, which has reduced odours significantly, and associated complaints by 83%. Orpic’s grassed areas also have grown by 40% since its formation two years ago and now total over35,000 square metres, which equates to almost 9 full size football pitches.

The planting project celebrates World Environment Day which falls on the 5th June this year, and is part of Orpic’s commitment to both the local environment and the local community. It also comes only weeks after the completion of a fruit tree planting project by Orpic in local schools, where a further 600 saplings were planted.

Orpic has further expanded its greening of the environment surrounding its Suhar operation through a new project that targets the refinery itself. Over 600 trees are being planted in a landscaping programme that centres on the refinery’s Waste Water Treatment plant.

“People do not normally associate oil refineries with landscaped gardens and trees,” said Abdullah Al Isaee, who headed the project, “but at present we have over 1,900 trees and shrubs within our complex. This new greenery will contribute significantly to the further beautification of the environment inside the plant. We already have large numbers of birds and butterflies who frequent the refinery area, and hope that this will encourage even more of them.”

The area chosen to plant the trees is close to the refinery’s Waste Water Treatment Plant and had no vegetation prior to the project. The WWT has been transformed recently by being covered, which has reduced odours significantly, and associated complaints by 83%. Orpic’s grassed areas also have grown by 40% since its formation two years ago and now total over 35,000 square metres, which equates to almost 9 full size football pitches.

The planting project celebrates World Environment Day which falls on the 5th June this year, and is part of Orpic’s commitment to both the local environment and the local community. It also comes only weeks after the completion of a fruit tree planting project by Orpic in local schools, where a further 600 saplings were planted.

Muscat: Orpic - Oman OilRefineries and Petroleum Industries Company showcased itsdownstream value chain,growth strategy and its two major projects, the Suhar RefineryImprovement Project andthe Suhar Plastics Project, in the Polyolefin Plastic ArabiaConference held at AlBustan Palace. Under the title “Maximizing the Value fromOil and Gas”, Musab AlMahruqi, Chief Executive Officer, Orpic delivered the keynotespeech on the first dayof the two-day conference (May 27-28, 2013).

Al Mahruqi highlightedthe importance of maximizing the value from oil and gas inthe Sultanate, given thehuge number of everyday products that are made from oiland gas. “There areabout 45 different families of plastics - each one of them canbe made with hundreds ofdifferent variations or grades. By changing chemistry,they can have differentproprieties, including flexibility, transparency, and durability”,he said.

The Orpic CEO, whosecompany is the platinum sponsor of the conference, reviewedin his presentation theupgrade of Suhar Refinery; the project cost, which is estimatedat US$ 1.5bn; the targetdate for completion, which is expected to be in 2016; andthe expected benefits.“Upgrading Suhar Refinery will improve the refining processto cater for heaviercrude, improve our environmental performance, increase fuelsproduction by 70%, giveus the ability to produce bitumen for the local market,increase production ofpolypropylene, and reduce imports of naphtha as feedstockto Aromatics”, AlMahruqi explained, “in addition, 290 direct jobs will be created.”

Moving on to the secondproject, Al Mahruqi continued, “the Suhar Plastic Projectwill enhance Aromaticsproduction but more importantly it will enable Oman to produce,for the first time,polyethylene, considered to be the plastic form that enjoysthe highest globaldemand.” The project will upgrade the light ends produced inthe refinery and theAromatics plant as well as optimize the NGLs extracted fromthe natural gas. It willfurther add to the petrochemicals building blocks, openingyet more opportunitiesfor downstream development.

The project, expected tobe completed in 2018, will also include a natural gas extractionplant near the gasfields at Fahud, which will be connected directly to the SuharIndustrial Port by a300km pipeline.

Summarizing the twoprojects Al Mahruqi said, “after the Refinery Improvement Projectour fuels productionwill have increased by 4.2 million tonnes per annum, whileoverall productionwill reach 13 million tonnes by 2016. And after the Suhar PlasticsProject, plasticsproduction will have increased by 1 million tonnes, giving usa total of 1.4million tonnes of polyethylene and polypropylene production by 2018.”

In terms of Revenue,the Suhar Refinery Improvement Project will grow Orpic’s revenuefrom around US$ 10bn in 2012 to over US$ 14 bn in 2016. The revenue will grow bya further US$ 1.4 bnfollowing the Suhar Plastics Project to reach USD 16 billionby 2018. Fuels willmake around 75% of Orpic’s revenue, but over 50% of Orpic’sprofitability willcome from the petrochemicals value chain.

Mahruqi closed byemphasizing that the growth strategy – achieve, enhance, grow– that Orpic waspursuing focused on the needs of both its current and future customersand the sustainabledevelopment of the Omani economy.

Orpic - Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company, the leading Omani company in the field of petroleum and petrochemical industries, celebrates the graduation of 103 trainees, this Thursday 16 May, as part of Orpic`s Course for Graduate Engineers and Technicians. This course is designed and undertaken by the company to train and qualify nationals to work in different departments at the company and to contribute into the efforts to replace the expatriate manpower with a skilled Omani workforce in support for the government’s efforts to create job opportunities for the job seekers.
 
Orpic started its training course with the first group in August 2011. This group included 30 graduates of BSC holders, 47 diploma holders and 3 trainee employees who started their career journey in this group. Those trainees were joined in January 2012 by a group of 23 process trainees.

The trainees received a high level training in many fields related to the safety practices at the company, core subject specialization and on-the-job experience as part of their studies. All the trainees have successfully completed their training courses with a success rate of 100%. This clearly demonstrates their level of commitment, capabilities and desire to work for the company, one which is at the heart of Oman’s current and future energy supply.
 

Innovative programme sees 300 fruit trees planted in 6 Liwa schools

The first phase of an innovative education programme has been completed by Orpic in schools that neighbour the company’s Suhar operations. Three hundred fruit trees have been planted by the Orpic’s ‘Hand-to-Hand’ community volunteers in a scheme devised to bring a number of benefits to the schools involved.

“We wanted to create an environment that would serve both as a pleasant place to be in, and have educational value,” said Mana Al Barkhati, who headed the Hand-to-Hand team on the project. “Several different aspects are contained within it,” he continued, “teaching students about fruit varieties, their growth and benefits, learning about general agricultural production, and also we’ve created a pleasant area that visitors can use. Of course, the fruit will also be eaten!”

The trees that have been planted in the six schools demonstrate the breadth of fruit varieties available in Oman. They include mango, guava, fig, pomegranate, lemon, [sidr], [fursad] and almond. Orpic’s Hand-to-Hand volunteers spent over 20 hours of their own time planting and establishing the fruit trees. The volunteers, who are all from the local community themselves, are currently involved in a number of projects throughout the area.

Phase 2 will extend the fruit-planting programme to more schools in the local area, and it forms part of Orpic’s commitment to the community. As Orpic continues its ongoing own environmental improvement programme, it is ensuring that it also supports environmental projects in its own neighbourhood. In addition to these activities, Orpic also has a partner, Jusoor, which is dedicated to establishing long-term, sustainable community programmes on Orpic’s behalf.

As part of its continuing work in the community, Orpic - Oman Oil Refining and Petroleum Industries Company, has visited a number of schools in the North Batinah area to donate a variety of medical equipment and supplies.

The equipment includes blood pressure monitors, wheelchairs, nebulizers, first aid boxes, digital temperature readers, pulse readers, resuscitators and many other items specifically identified by the schools as being required to enhance the existing medical support they provide to students and teachers.

Ms Amina Al Yahmdi, headmistress of Al Mumina Elementary School commented on the programme, “We are pleased to thank Orpic for its support in providing us with this medical equipment, which will allow us to support the students with basic medical services in the school, and we thank them for their efforts in interacting with local communities.”

“As we carry out continuous efficiency and environmental improvements to the way in which our own facilities operate, we also want to be able to support improvements in the community as well,” said Dr. Hilal Al Hinai, Orpic’s General Manager Corporate Support Services. “This is a great example of the kind of action we can take for the good of our neighbours, and is something we will be focusing more on in the future.”

In addition to its direct commitment to the local community through programmes such as this one, Orpic has a strategic partner, Jusoor, who oversee long-term, sustainable community projects on the company’s behalf.

Orpic – Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company has announced that its May 2013 production of Paraxylene and Benzene reached new record levels of 12% above design basis. In May over 73,000 metric tons of Paraxylene was produced and nearly 21,000 metric tons of Benzene. The two products are manufactured by Orpic’s Aromatics Plant at Suhar Industrial Port.

The Aromatics Plant was built in 2009 incorporating leading edge technologies for aromatics’ production. The plant started commercial production in February 2010 and had an average utilization rate of 90.4% during 2011 and 2012.

“Our Aromatics Plant has been operational since February 2010,” said Kamil Al Shanfari, General Manager for the facility “and it is a tribute to our growing knowledge and experience that we have reached this milestone. With our future developments, the Suhar Refinery Improvement Project and the subsequent Suhar Plastics Project, Aromatics capacities will further increase, making Orpic’s combined Suhar refinery and petrochemical complex one of the most efficient integrated operations in the world.”

Aromatics production hits a record high in May

It’s just been announced that our Suhar Aromatics Plant had a record May for production. Over 73,000 metric tons of Paraxylene and nearly 23,000 of Benzene were manufactured which beats every month since the plant started commercial production in February 2010.

Benzene and Paraxylene are used to produce a host of consumer and other products including CDs, detergents and food packaging. Their production is a key part of Orpic’s strategy to ensure that Oman retains as much value as possible in country from its crude oil resource.

Congratulations to all at Aromatics on a bumper month!

More than 30 companies from across the sultanate participated in a two-day career fair at Shinas College of Technology on 19–20 May, 2013. It was organised for the college’s final year students and was inaugurated by H.E. Sheikh Muhana bin Saif Al-Lamki, Governor of North Al Batinah.

The fair was designed to bring together job seekers and employers from various sectors, as well as familiarising the students with the skills and techniques required to prepare a professional job application and to be successful in job interviews.

Orpic’s stand attracted a large number of students and young job-seekers throughout the fair. Our HR Team was on hand to meet and interact with them on various career options. A large number of young Omanis, especially those graduating this year, were inquiring about job and training opportunities at Orpic.

Visitors to our stand were informed about the company and the available vacancies & training opportunities in its different plants, including the hiring of the 100 new graduates that was only announced on Thursday.

The team also answered questions about the future of the refineries and petrochemicals sector and associated career opportunities, as well as the required course specializations.

On Monday, 11 March 2013, Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company’s (Orpic) Suhar Refinery suffered a fire in its Wet Gas Scrubber while conducting heavy maintenance in the unit.  Personnel were evacuated from the site with no injuries.  Orpic’s fire brigade and the Civil Defence were called to fight the fire.

Currently the company is conducting its planned shutdown “turnaround” which involves wide-ranging maintenance of the plant equipment at Suhar Refinery and the Polypropylene Plant. 

The fire will not impact the fuel demand as Orpic has already made the necessary arrangements for petroleum products to meet the domestic fuel demand at all three of its supply locations - Suhar, Muscat and Salalah during the 46-day scheduled shutdown.

Suhar:  Attended by more than 3,000 employees and their families, Orpic held its first Family Day in Suhar for its employees on Thursday, 28 February 2013. 

Orpic’s Family Day is aimed at enhancing interactions amongst employees and recognising their dedicated efforts which have enabled Orpic to maintain a second year of strong performance. The day was devoted entirely to the employees and families of Orpic. 

“Our employees are our most valuable resource and it is not often that we get an opportunity to spend time with each other.  We strive to create a positive workplace that encourages employees to perform at their best” stated Orpic’s GM HRS, Nofal Al Saidi, “and often we forget the support the families provide our employees which is an excellent source of emotional support when times are tough at work.”

The Orpic Family Day will be celebrated annually and as Orpic is situated in two locations – Suhar and Muscat, the company will be hosting a second Family Day for its employees in Muscat on 21 March 2013.

Suhar:  Orpic today announced that it has made the necessary arrangements for petroleum products to meet the domestic fuel demand at all three of its supply locations - Suhar, Muscat and Salalah during the 46-day scheduled shutdown of two of its plants at the Suhar Complex that began yesterday.

The OMR 17.7 million investment in the shutdown, known as a ‘turnaround’ involves three-yearly heavy maintenance programmes at Orpic’s Suhar Refinery and the Polypropylene Plant that will improve efficiency and environmental performance.

The ‘turnaround’ will involve wide-ranging maintenance of the plant equipment at Suhar Refinery and the Polypropylene Plant.  The maintenance aims to ensure integrity, reliability and availability of the plants to sustain operations over the coming years.

Khamis Al Maqbali, Manager Maintenance Planning Services, Orpic, said “A turnaround is a major event in the lifecycle of a refinery and its associated plants.  It involves a huge amount of work from our employees and many outside contractors.

“This is a major engineering project involving tens of thousands of procedures to safely shut down, maintain and restart our equipment.  With the plant totally shut down, we have the opportunity to conduct heavy maintenance throughout all the units.

“When we come back on line in early April, our plants will operate more efficiently and more cleanly as a result of this effort.”

More than 3,000 extra people will be on site during the turnaround, supporting Orpic with the maintenance programme.

Mr Al Maqbali said Orpic’s goal during the turnaround was to complete the programme safely and on time, while continuing to supply the nation’s domestic fuel needs.

Orpic, has today launched its new Facebook page, as part of its on-going commitment to improving communications with its local communities and with key stakeholders.
The page, at http://www.facebook.com/Orpic, is in Arabic and English, and contains details of Orpic’s operations and community activities.

The launch of the page follows a series of initiatives to widen communications from Oman’s refining and Petrochemicals Company, including a new Visitor Centre at Suhar Refinery, a new showroom in Suhar and regular meetings with community leaders.

Dr. Hilal AL Hinai General Manager of Corporate Support Services of Orpic, said:
“We have many, many projects under way which will directly impact upon our local communities, from our new local supplier initiatives which will deliver more business to local SMEs, to our OMR 18 million investment in environmental improvements, which is already resulting in lower emissions and less odours.

“The Orpic Facebook page is a great way for people in our local communities to learn about these activities.  It is also a great way to learn about our business and the critically important role it plays in the national economy.

“We hope everyone LIKEs our new page!”

Orpic is proud to have been a sponsor at this year’s Oman Open Golf Championship where one of its employees, Azaan Al Rumhy, came third in the tournament.

“Our employees are our most valuable resource and we look for high achievers who want to win.  We strive to create a positive workplace that encourages employees to work towards a healthier lifestyle, to perform at their best not just in the work place but in other areas of excellence” stated Orpic’s General Manager for Corporate Support Services, Dr Hilal Al Hinai.

Azaan became Oman’s first Omani winner of this tournament in 2012 and again represented Oman at this year’s event which is the top tournament in Oman and one of the most prestigious events in professional golf. 

Under the auspices of H.E. Sultan bin Salim Al Habsi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Planning and Chairman of Orpic Board of Directors, Orpic (Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum industries Company) celebrated ground breaking of Muscat – Suhar Pipeline Project (MSPP) for the transportation of oil products and Al Jifnain terminal, which shall connect both refineries in Suhar and Mena al Fahal via a 290 km pipeline. In addition to commencement of excavation works in the future location of Al Jifnain terminal. This project will be the first of its kind in the Sultanate and its value is estimated to be 320$ Mn. This project will enable Orpic to reduce its reliance on above-ground methods of transportation for oil products.

Commenting on the groundbreaking, H.E. Sultan bin Salim Al Habsi Chairman of Orpic Board of Directors said, “We are delighted to celebrate, today, the ground breaking of an important and a vital project which is needed to keep up with the requirements of development in the Sultanate, this project will contribute to enhancing the oil transportation infrastructure in the Sultanate to keep pace with the growing demand for fuel in the Sultanate, and we hope that this project will contribute to the improvement of environmental aspects and road safety”

Musab bin Abdullah Al Mahruqi, Orpic CEO, explained the significance of this project for the transportation of oil products and Al Jifnain terminal to the local communities, saying “To achieve our vision of building an Omani integrated refining and petrochemical business we are proud of, we must support opportunities to grow our people, grow our business and grow our capacity to meet the needs of Oman and international markets.

“In addition to meeting the domestic demand for fuels, which is growing at seven per cent per annum, this project will deliver numerous social, economic and environmental benefits including job growth, improved road safety, increased jet fuel supply, logistic efficiencies, and reduced pollution resulting from pipeline transportation,” Mr Musab Al Mahruqi, Orpic CEO, said.

Al Jifinan Terminal is expected to cater for 50% of Oman’s fuel demand, following commissioning of the project in 2017.

Al Mahruqi added, ““Delivery of Orpic’s MSPP project is in line with our strategic growth plan to revolutionize the way we operate our oil product logistics model – focusing on a higher standard of efficiency, lower costs, eliminating safety and security hazards, improving environmental footprint, and serving the Sultanate with pride,”

Orpic Logistics, a joint venture between Orpic and the Spanish firm Compa??a Log?stica de Hidrocarburos (CLH), is delivering the MSPP project. Mr. Salvador Guillen, Managing Director of CLH stated that though the MSPP project is ambitious, it has a highly dedicated and professional team committed to delivering the project objectives, and said “We are honored to be part of Orpic’s OLC project team and participate in such an important operation for Oman.”

Orpic’s MSPP project is split into four sections: MAF-Jifnain Terminal: 40-km (10 inches), JifnainTerminal-Airport: 30-km (10 inches), and Suhar-Jifnain Terminal: 220-km (18 inches) and Al Jifnain truck loading terminal.

The project will constitute state-of-the-art control systems with latest SCADA technology, leak detection, and telecommunications network.  It will also be equipped with loading facilities designed to cater to the loading of more than 500 trucks per day.