Sultan Qaboos University and ARA Petroleum have signed a cooperation agreement aimed at exploring innovative solutions for converting saline water produced from oil and gas operations into sustainable energy by-products, namely biohydrogen and biochar.

This agreement, which brings together researchers and postgraduate students from SQU and research and development engineers from ARA Petroleum, reflects a shared vision of harnessing scientific knowledge and technological expertise to support the transition towards more sustainable energy practices. ARA Petroleum will fund the project and provide technical support, ensuring that the research benefits from both academic insight and industrial experience.

The partnership goes beyond the reuse of produced saline water, a significant by-product of oil extraction, and aligns with broader efforts to enhance environmental management within Oman’s energy sector.

The agreement was signed on behalf of SQU by Professor Amer bin Saif Al-Hinai, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Postgraduate Studies and Research, and on behalf of ARA Petroleum by Dr. Omar bin Salim Al-Jaaidi, Vice President of the company. The signing ceremony took place at the University’s Cultural Centre.

Dr. Omar bin Salim Al-Jaaidi, Vice President of ARA Petroleum, stated:
"This collaboration highlights the strength of local expertise and the potential of Oman’s youth. By working with Sultan Qaboos University, we are not only developing sustainable energy solutions but also empowering the next generation of innovators and researchers to lead efforts in addressing global environmental challenges."

The Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation supports this partnership, with its platform "Ejaad" playing a pivotal role in facilitating this strategic collaboration between academia and industry. The Ministry’s involvement underscores the national commitment to building a diversified, knowledge-based economy driven by innovation and sustainability.

This project embodies the potential of public-private partnerships to address complex environmental issues and supports Oman’s long-term vision for a sustainable, innovation-led future.