Izz Pharma opens a US$26M IV Solutions plant in Oman to boost drug security

OMAN—Izz Pharma has inaugurated a RO10mn (US$26mn) pharmaceutical plant in Nizwa to manufacture large-volume parenteral (LVP) intravenous solutions, strengthening Oman’s healthcare supply chain and reducing dependence on imported medical products.

The facility was officially opened by H.E. Sultan bin Salim Al Habsi, Minister of Finance, in the presence of H.E. Dr. Hilal bin Ali Al Sabti, Minister of Health, together with senior government officials and industry representatives.

Strategic investment in local manufacturing

The new plant reflects Oman’s efforts to expand domestic pharmaceutical production under Vision 2040, with a focus on health security, industrial growth, and stronger supply chain resilience.

Seif Al Ehsani, CEO of Izz Pharma, said the project was conceived during the COVID-19 pandemic, when global disruptions exposed weaknesses in access to essential medicines and hospital supplies.

He noted that pharmaceutical security has become a national priority, adding that the factory is designed to improve self-sufficiency while ensuring reliable access to critical healthcare products.

Al Ehsani also said choosing Nizwa was both symbolic and strategic, as the city combines deep national heritage with growing industrial potential.

He added that locating the project outside major urban centres supports balanced regional development and creates new opportunities across governorates.

Production capacity and technology

Spread across approximately 20,000 square metres, the plant is equipped with automated production lines and advanced quality control laboratories built to international pharmaceutical standards.

The facility has an annual production capacity of more than 18 million units of intravenous solutions and related sterile medical preparations.

This output is expected to meet a significant share of domestic demand while supporting future exports.

Intravenous solutions are essential in hospitals for hydration, emergency treatment, surgeries, and patient recovery.

As a result, the plant is expected to help stabilise supply for healthcare institutions across the country.

Growing pharma sector in Oman

Balqees Al Makhmari, Director of Investment Enablement at the Ministry of Health, said Oman’s pharmaceutical and medical manufacturing sector continues to expand steadily.

She stated that around 20 pharmaceutical and medical factories currently operate in the sultanate, producing more than 2,000 products, while 18 additional facilities are under construction.

According to Al Makhmari, Omani-made medical products are already exported to more than 32 countries, showing growing international confidence in the sector and strengthening the country’s position as a regional manufacturing hub.

She added that the Ministry of Health continues to support investment through regulation, public-private partnerships, and policies that encourage industrial growth.

Jobs and skills development

Beyond production, the Izz Pharma facility is expected to create specialised jobs for Omani professionals in manufacturing, engineering, quality assurance, and management.

The project will also support technical training and workforce development, helping build local expertise in advanced pharmaceutical manufacturing while contributing to Oman’s wider economic diversification agenda.