get ready – big supply opportunities are opening up
If you’re in the hardware, tools, or building materials business in the UAE, here’s something you should seriously pay attention to – Oman is setting up a brand-new solar panel manufacturing plant, and it’s worth a whopping $565 million (over AED 2 billion).
Yes, that’s right – a project of this size is not just important for Oman. It’s an opportunity for smart suppliers across the Gulf, especially those in the UAE, to step in and make serious business by supporting this major energy shift.
what exactly is this solar plant project?
This new project is being set up by United Solar Polysilicon in Oman. The goal? To make polysilicon – the key raw material used in solar panels. The factory will be located in Sohar Freezone, and it’s expected to kick off construction soon.
Let’s break it down:
- It will be the first of its kind in the region – a full-scale plant to manufacture solar-grade polysilicon.
- The investment is $565 million, showing how serious Oman is about clean energy.
- Once ready, the plant will produce tens of thousands of metric tonnes of polysilicon every year.
- It will support the GCC’s push for local solar manufacturing, reducing reliance on imports from China and Europe.
- The location – Sohar – is already a major port city with direct sea access to UAE ports like Jebel Ali, Khalifa Port and Port Rashid.
In short, this is a landmark project – and it’s happening right next door to the UAE.
why uae businesses should care
You might think, “But it’s in Oman – how does it help us?”
The truth is, UAE-based businesses, especially in Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman, are in the perfect position to supply this project. Here’s why:
✅ Sohar is just a few hours’ drive from the UAE border – delivery is fast and affordable.
✅ Oman relies heavily on experienced UAE suppliers for specialised tools and fasteners.
✅ UAE companies are well-known in the region for their stock availability and prompt service.
✅ Most solar projects require a range of equipment not made locally in Oman – which means importers and shopkeepers in the UAE are in demand.
what type of products will be needed?
This isn’t just about buying a few machines and running a factory. A project like this will need thousands of different items, from major equipment to small nuts and bolts. Here’s a breakdown of what UAE traders and suppliers should focus on:
🔹 Electrical and Solar-Related Supplies
- DC cables and solar panel wiring
- Solar inverters, connectors and combiner boxes
- Circuit protection devices (MCBs, MCCBs, SPDs)
- Battery banks, charge controllers
- Earthing equipment, cable trays, and grounding rods
🔹 Mechanical and Industrial Supplies
- Stainless steel fasteners and anchor bolts
- High-temperature insulation materials
- Steel pipes, elbows, and fittings
- Welding equipment and gas cylinders
- Bearings, couplings, and belts
🔹 Factory and Workshop Tools
- Drill machines, cutting tools, torque wrenches
- Safety gloves, face shields, work boots
- Storage racks and material handling trolleys
- Power tools from Makita, Bosch, Dewalt
- Hydraulic jacks and lifting equipment
🔹 Construction and Civil Materials
- Concrete, steel bars, rebar ties
- Industrial-grade paint and coatings
- PU foam, grouts, waterproofing membranes
- Cable protection pipes and ducts
🔹 Safety, Fire, and Office Setup
- CCTV systems and fire alarms
- Fire doors, extinguishers, signage
- Lighting, switches, motion sensors
- Modular furniture, workstations, and partitions
which uae suppliers are in the best position?
Here’s who should start planning immediately:
✔️ Electrical and solar distributors with warehouse stock of solar-compatible gear
✔️ Hardware traders dealing in fasteners, anchors, bolts and high-heat accessories
✔️ Tool shops and power tool dealers catering to industrial use
✔️ Sanitaryware and plumbing suppliers (yes, they’ll also need washrooms and canteens!)
✔️ Safety equipment traders – gloves, boots, fire kits, etc.
Even general storekeepers who supply screwdrivers, tapes, markers and ladders will find business here.
how to grab the opportunity
You may not be supplying directly to United Solar Polysilicon – but you can target their EPC contractors, subcontractors, site engineers, and logistic teams. Here’s how:
- Get your product list ready – make sure it’s export-friendly with pricing and clear specs.
- Use platforms like Gulfinquiries.com to connect with regional buyers and sourcing agents.
- Offer fast logistics to Oman’s Sohar region – even same-day delivery if you’re near the border.
- Join construction WhatsApp groups – your next order might come from a site foreman.
- Highlight your UAE stock advantage – Oman suppliers often face long lead times; your speed is a selling point.
big projects = small, fast orders too
We always think mega projects only need big suppliers. But that’s not true.
Every big site ends up placing urgent orders – a box of gloves here, a missing sensor there. If you’re known to deliver fast, they’ll keep coming back to you. In fact, many long-term supply deals begin with just one urgent, small delivery.
timing and next steps
- Project officially announced and ready for mobilisation
- Construction likely to begin within the next few months
- Procurement and supplier selection starts early, especially for raw materials and setup
- Full operations are expected in phases, so supply needs will continue into 2026
This is the perfect time to introduce your company, get your foot in the door, and make your products known to Oman-based buyers.
final words from the counter
Whether you’re selling wires, welding rods, or solar gear, this project in Oman has your name written on it – if you take the initiative.
Don’t think of the border as a barrier. Think of it as a short delivery route to a high-value project.
UAE suppliers have an edge – experience, stock, speed, and reach. Use it.
