193 km Reinforcement Gas Pipeline To Increase Supply in Sohar & Ibri

The demand for natural gas in Oman continues to grow, driven by industrial development, power generation, desalination, and LNG exports. To meet increasing regional consumption OQGN is implementing several pipeline augmentation projects. Among these, the Fahud–Sohar Loop Line and Ibri Spur Line projects form the backbone of supply reinforcement in the northern sector.

Fahud-Sohar Loop Line

This project involves the construction of a new 193 km, 42-inch diameter pipeline running parallel to the existing 32-inch mainline from Fahud Compressor Station to BVS-6 in Al Dhahirah Governorate.

Technical Features:

Pipe DN: 42 in
Length: 193 km
Designed flow capacity uplift: ~9 million Sm³/day
Parallel operation with existing 32″ pipeline
Construction includes the extension of six block valve stations for flow and isolation control.

Ibri Spur Line

A 2 km, 16-inch branch line will be constructed to supply the upcoming Ibri Industrial Estate and its associated Gas Supply Station (GSS).

Design Objectives:

Deliver dedicated gas feed to the Ibri estate
Enable future integration with Sohar and broader northern gas network
Design pressure to match upstream conditions for seamless flow distribution

Engineering Consideration

Ensure compatibility between the new 42″ loop line and existing 32″ mainline
Identify optimal locations for block valve stations and pressure letdown points
API 5L Grade X70 was selected, balancing strength and weldability
Cathodic protection systems to be integrated across the new segments
External coatings: 3LPE or FBE for corrosion protection

Network Expansion Metrics

Parameter	2023	2024	2027 (Target)
Total Pipeline Length (km)	~4,045	~4,235	~4,500
Transmission Capacity (bcm)	~69.3	~71.1	~80.0

The Sohar and Ibri reinforcement is expected to increase local delivery capacity by 26%, supporting peak demand and operational redundancy in the northern corridor.