Oman: Raysut Cement reports strong H1, global gains
The Group's consolidated revenue rose by 30.8% to RO 41.3 million, while net losses were reduced by 38% compared to the same period in 2024. This performance reflects a successful strategy implemented across its operations, including key contributions from its UAE-based subsidiary Pioneer Cement Industries and its growing presence in the Maldives.
Pioneer Cement Industries (PCI), a wholly owned subsidiary of RCC in the UAE, has become a central pillar in the Group's recovery. PCI's capacity utilisation surged to 88% in the first half of the year, up from just 40% during the same period in 2024. This turnaround is attributed to improved operational discipline and a renewed commercial focus. PCI succeeded in attracting bulk cement customers in the UAE and increased its monthly sales by an average of 50,000 metric tonnes. It also developed premium clinker products with higher margins and introduced a smart pricing mechanism to enhance competitiveness.
In an interview with the Observer, Acting CEO Dr Hilal Saif al Dhamri highlighted the importance of these strategic gains. 'Pioneer Cement's recovery is a textbook example of how operational excellence and smart market positioning can deliver real results,' he said. 'We have restored its reputation and repositioned it as a high-performing, quality-driven asset within our Group.'
RCC's strategic expansion into the Maldives has also paid dividends. Its 75%-owned subsidiary, Maldives Raysut Cement Company, has become a preferred supplier for major infrastructure projects in the island nation. The Group now holds a 35% share of total cement imports to the Maldives. Despite logistical hurdles typical of island markets, the company introduced efficient distribution models and launched specialised marine-grade cement to meet coastal construction demands.
'The Maldives is a key part of our international growth strategy,' Dr Al Dhamri added. 'We've established ourselves as a reliable partner for national development projects, and our localised approach is helping us build long-term customer trust.' On the sustainability front, RCC is setting new benchmarks at its flagship Salalah plant. The company is implementing a Waste Heat Recovery System that will generate 9MW of clean electricity annually, cutting CO₂ emissions by an estimated 50,000 tonnes per year and saving around RO 1.5 million in energy costs. Alongside this, a Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) project is being rolled out to process about 700 tonnes of municipal waste per day into alternative fuel, replacing 15% of the plant's natural gas consumption. These initiatives support Oman's environmental goals and demonstrate the financial viability of green technology in heavy industry.
At the Sohar Cement Factory, monthly sales increased by 32,000 metric tonnes, contributing to stronger Group-wide performance. Strategic price optimisation in export markets has also helped bolster revenues and create a more sustainable business model.
With these achievements, RCC is entering a new phase of sustained growth under Dr Al Dhamri's leadership. 'We've laid a strong foundation by revitalising our core operations, expanding internationally, and leading on sustainability,' he noted. 'Our focus now is to accelerate our momentum and secure our position as a regional industry leader.'
As 2025 progresses, Raysut Cement stands as a model of industrial transformation—one that combines operational discipline, market diversification, and environmental responsibility to drive long-term value for Oman's cement sector and the wider region.
2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Zawya
8 minutes ago
- Zawya
Space42, Microsoft, and Esri sign memorandum of understanding to enhance mapping capabilities across Africa
Over the next five years, the initiative will map 54 African countries and benefit over 1.4 billion people The detailed mapping will support economic growth across the continent Abu Dhabi, UAE – Space42 (ADX: SPACE42), the UAE-based global AI-powered SpaceTech company, part of technology group G42, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Microsoft and Esri to deliver high-resolution, scalable base maps across all 54 African countries, serving over 1.4 billion people. Known as the 'Map Africa Initiative,' the project will create the most comprehensive base map of the continent to date, addressing challenges in infrastructure, investment, and institutional gaps. The updated mapping system will catalyze economic development through increased access to intelligent solutions that support governments, businesses, and communities. The five-year collaboration aims to strengthen geospatial capabilities across Africa and the UAE, and provide precise and accessible data to national and regional stakeholders. The MoU was signed at Esri's 2025 User Conference. Hasan Al Hosani, CEO of Smart Solutions at Space42, said, 'Partnership is core to the UAE's DNA, and is central to how Space42 operates. This collaboration with Microsoft and Esri is more than technical; it's strategic. It advances Space42's business priorities, strengthens our role as a trusted partner to governments, and delivers meaningful benefits to communities across Africa. Accurate, high-quality mapping and the intelligence solutions built on it are essential for growth, resilience, and inclusive innovation. With reliable data, communities and economies prosper.' Jack Dangermond, President of Esri said,"We are proud to support the Map Africa Initiative in partnership with Space42. Transforming satellite imagery into detailed, accurate base maps at continental scale requires advanced geospatial technology and professional production workflows. These same capabilities have supported similar national and regional mapping efforts around the world. With Map Africa, we are helping to establish a foundational resource that will drive infrastructure planning, economic growth, and sustainable development across the continent." A Transformative Investment in Africa's Digital Future Africa's maps are fragmented, outdated, or inaccessible, leaving governments and businesses to make major decisions with inaccurate and incomplete data. The Map Africa Initiative seeks to change that by producing continent-wide geospatial data that is accurate, timely, and locally managed. The process itself is collaborative from start to finish, bringing together the complementary strengths of each organization. Space42 will lead fundraising efforts and project management, in addition to providing satellite data through sovereign capacities and commercial partners. It will process data using AI-powered Digital Twin models to produce dynamic, use-specific outputs and lead the Research & Development roadmap for new AI models and automation of map production workflows. Esri will orchestrate base map production workflows with its GeoAI and remote sensing capabilities, while also supporting regional hubs to train local teams and build long-term capacity. Microsoft will provide the secure cloud infrastructure and AI framework through Azure to support data processing, sharing, and integration at scale. Enabling Economic Opportunity, Resilience, and Innovation The initiative is expected to unlock long-term value across multiple industries: Ports and logistics: Detailed terrain and infrastructure mapping will improve route planning, reduce inefficiencies, and support Africa's emergence as a global logistics hub. Renewable energy: Site selection models will support optimal solar and wind deployment, improving efficiency and return on investment. Security and disaster response: Governments will be better equipped to monitor borders, track natural resources, and coordinate emergency responses. Smart cities and digital economies: Accurate maps are foundational to urban planning, public services, and technology deployment. The data will be licensed to national governments, enabling ownership and long-term updating by National Mapping Agencies. Over time, the initiative will also support a new commercial ecosystem of African startups. The data will eventually be housed in G42 and Microsoft-managed data centers across the continent. Strategic positioning for Space42 For Space42, the initiative represents more than a single project. It deepens long-standing partnerships with Microsoft and Esri, expands Space42's presence in Africa, and opens new commercial opportunities in analytics, licensing, and infrastructure support. The Map Africa Initiative is a testament to Space42's position as the global partner of choice for governments seeking geospatial data at scale, serving as both a strategic proof point and a commercial gateway to new markets. Peng Xiao, Group Chief Executive Officer at G42, said, 'We believe intelligence is the foundation for societal progress, yet it remains out of reach for millions across the Global South. This partnership is a decisive step toward closing that gap. Together with our partners, we will deliver AI-powered insights that enable African nations to plan smarter, build better, and grow more sustainably and responsibly. From agricultural optimization and natural resource management to strengthening public services infrastructure and economic empowerment, this partnership will help turn data into development, and intelligence into impact.' 'G42's partnership with Microsoft represents a shared commitment to harnessing AI as a global force for good. Together, we are building the infrastructure and applications that will extend the benefits of intelligence to communities across the world, transforming lives through technology that is trusted, responsible, and inclusive.' The initiative further pushes the limits of how technological innovation can advance communities and unlock economic opportunities. Aligning with the UAE's Global Investment and Innovation Agenda The UAE is Africa's largest foreign investor, with $44 billion in capital deployed in 2024 alone, nearly matching the combined investments of the UK and China. As the UAE's national space champion, Space42 advances this agenda by exporting AI and geospatial capabilities that enable data-driven development. By expanding the UAE's space ecosystem and fostering knowledge transfer across industries, Space42's geospatial mapping capabilities play a crucial role in building a future-ready, innovation-driven economy in both the UAE and Africa. For African countries, the mapping capabilities enable smarter land use, improved disaster response, modern infrastructure planning, and the foundations for smart cities and digital economies. For the UAE, this strategic engagement opens high-growth markets, deepens diplomatic and commercial ties, and consolidates its role as a global leader in AI-enabled space solutions. About Space42 Space42 (ADX: SPACE42) is a UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company that integrates satellite communications, geospatial analytics and artificial intelligence capabilities to enlighten the Earth from space. Formed in 2024 by the successful merger of Bayanat and Yahsat, Space42's global reach allows it to address the rapidly evolving needs of its customers in governments, enterprises, and communities. Space42 comprises two business units: Space Services and Smart Solutions. Space Services focuses on upstream satellite operations for both fixed and mobile satellite services. Smart Solutions integrates geospatial data acquisition and processing with AI to inform decision-making, enhance situational awareness, and improve operational efficiency. Major shareholders include G42, Mubadala, and IHC. For more information, visit: follow us on X: @space42ai Legal Notice and Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking information This announcement may include forward-looking statements, which are based on current expectations and projections about future events. These statements may include, without limitation, words such as "expect", "will", "looking ahead" and any other words and terms of similar meaning. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions about the Company and its subsidiaries and its investments and speak only as of the date of this announcement. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions of future events and information currently available to the Company which may not prove to be accurate, and the Company does not accept any responsibility for the accuracy or fairness thereof and expressly disclaims any obligation to update any such forward looking statement. No representation or warranty is made that any forward-looking statement will come to pass. You are therefore cautioned not to place any undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Neither this announcement nor anything contained herein constitutes a financial promotion, or an invitation or inducement to acquire or sell securities in any jurisdiction.
Al Etihad
38 minutes ago
- Al Etihad
Space42, Microsoft, and Esri sign agreement supporting Map Africa Initiative, reinforcing UAE leadership in AI-enabled space solutions
29 July 2025 15:53 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Space42, a UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company, has signed an agreement with Microsoft and Esri at the latter's 2025 User Conference to deliver high-resolution, scalable base maps across all 54 African countries, serving over 1.4 billion as the Map Africa Initiative, the project will create the most comprehensive base map of the continent to date, addressing challenges in infrastructure, investment, and institutional updated mapping system will catalyse economic development through increased access to intelligent solutions that support governments, businesses, and communities. The five-year collaboration aims to strengthen geospatial capabilities across Africa and the UAE, providing precise and accessible data to national and regional of Smart Solutions at Space42, Hasan Al Hosani, said, 'Partnership is core to the UAE's DNA, and is central to how Space42 operates. This collaboration with Microsoft and Esri is more than technical; it's strategic. It advances Space42's business priorities, strengthens our role as a trusted partner to governments, and delivers meaningful benefits to communities across Africa. Accurate, high-quality mapping and the intelligence solutions built on it are essential for growth, resilience, and inclusive innovation. With reliable data, communities and economies prosper.'President of Esri, Jack Dangermond, said, "We are proud to support the Map Africa Initiative in partnership with Space42. Transforming satellite imagery into detailed, accurate base maps at a continental scale requires advanced geospatial technology and professional production workflows. These same capabilities have supported similar national and regional mapping efforts around the world. With Map Africa, we are helping to establish a foundational resource that will drive infrastructure planning, economic growth, and sustainable development across the continent.'Group Chief Executive Officer at G42, Peng Xiao, said, 'We believe intelligence is the foundation for societal progress, yet it remains out of reach for millions across the Global South. This partnership is a decisive step toward closing that gap. Together with our partners, we will deliver AI-powered insights that enable African nations to plan smarter, build better, and grow more sustainably and responsibly. From agricultural optimisation and natural resource management to strengthening public services infrastructure and economic empowerment, this partnership will help turn data into development, and intelligence into impact.'G42's partnership with Microsoft represents a shared commitment to harnessing AI as a global force for good. Together, we are building the infrastructure and applications that will extend the benefits of intelligence to communities across the world, transforming lives through technology that is trusted, responsible, and inclusive.'Maps of Africa are fragmented, outdated, or inaccessible, leaving governments and businesses to make major decisions with inaccurate and incomplete Map Africa Initiative seeks to change that by producing continent-wide geospatial data that is accurate, timely, and locally process itself is collaborative from start to finish, bringing together the complementary strengths of each organisation. Space42 will lead fundraising efforts and project management, in addition to providing satellite data through sovereign capacities and commercial partners. It will process data using AI-powered Digital Twin models to produce dynamic, use-specific outputs and lead the Research & Development roadmap for new AI models and automation of map production will orchestrate base map production workflows with its GeoAI and remote sensing capabilities, while also supporting regional hubs to train local teams and build long-term capacity. Microsoft will provide the secure cloud infrastructure and AI framework through Azure to support data processing, sharing, and integration at initiative is expected to unlock long-term value across multiple industries. Ports and logistics: Detailed terrain and infrastructure mapping will improve route planning, reduce inefficiencies, and support Africa's emergence as a global logistics hub. Renewable energy: Site selection models will support optimal solar and wind deployment, improving efficiency and return on investment. Security and disaster response: Governments will be better equipped to monitor borders, track natural resources, and coordinate emergency responses. Smart cities and digital economies: Accurate maps are foundational to urban planning, public services, and technology data will be licensed to national governments, enabling ownership and long-term updating by National Mapping time, the initiative will also support a new commercial ecosystem of African startups. The data will eventually be housed in G42 and Microsoft-managed data centres across the Space42, the initiative deepens long-standing partnerships with Microsoft and Esri, expands Space42's presence in Africa, and opens new commercial opportunities in analytics, licensing, and infrastructure support. The Map Africa Initiative reflects Space42's position as the global partner of choice for governments seeking geospatial data at scale, serving as both a strategic proof point and a commercial gateway to new UAE is Africa's largest foreign investor, with US$44 billion in capital deployed in 2024 alone, nearly matching the combined investments of the UK and China. As the UAE's national space champion, Space42 advances this agenda by exporting AI and geospatial capabilities that enable data-driven expanding the UAE's space ecosystem and fostering knowledge transfer across industries, Space42's geospatial mapping capabilities play a crucial role in building a future-ready, innovation-driven economy in both the UAE and Africa. For African countries, the mapping capabilities enable smarter land use, improved disaster response, modern infrastructure planning, and the foundations for smart cities and digital economies. For the UAE, this strategic engagement opens high-growth markets, deepens diplomatic and commercial ties, and consolidates its role as a global leader in AI-enabled space solutions.
Khaleej Times
38 minutes ago
- Khaleej Times
Empowering brokers with innovation: An interview with Dr Abdulaziz Albawardi, chairman of Skyloov Property Portal
From hidden fees to full transparency, Skyloov is the future of property portals Despite the dominance of major players in the UAE's real estate portal market, a new contender is making headlines by prioritising fairness, innovation, and real value for real estate agencies. Dr Abdulaziz Albawardi, chairman of the Board at Skyloov Property Portal, shares the vision, growth journey, and technological edge that are redefining how brokers and property seekers engage with the market. Question: Dr Abdulaziz, entering the UAE property portal market, home to well-established giants, is a bold move. What inspired this vision? Answer: The inspiration behind launching Skyloov in such a competitive environment stems from a deep commitment to empowering real estate agencies, particularly brokers who are the backbone of the industry. When we analysed the market, we found that many agencies - especially startups - were struggling due to unclear pricing models and a credit-based system that didn't prioritise their interests. Some agencies were forced to close because they simply couldn't keep up with the unfair structure. Skyloov was created to bring fairness, transparency, and support back to the real estate community. We offer a flat-fee model - no credit system, no hidden costs. Whether you list a studio in Ajman or a villa in downtown Dubai, you pay the same affordable price, starting at just Dh750 per month - more than 50 per cent lower than market averages. This approach has made Skyloov an increasingly popular choice for those looking to list or find apartments for sale in Dubai, giving both agencies and property seekers a reliable and cost-effective platform to connect. We also implemented rotational listings, meaning every listing gets visibility. No more being buried on page 99 just because someone else spent more on ad credits. Our focus is clear: help agencies list more and close more. Question: Skyloov is relatively new to the market. Yet, you've already gained impressive traction. Can you share some growth milestones and what drove this success? Answer: Certainly, we launched Skyloov in October 2024, and in just nine months, we've crossed 3.6 million monthly visitors, 130,000+ active listings, and onboarded 1,300 registered real estate agencies, with over 46 million property page views. This growth came with a digital-first strategy. We invested in performance-driven marketing across search engines, social platforms, and programmatic channels. Most importantly, we used AI to analyseuser behaviour, making our property matching smarter and faster. This tech-powered personalisation doesn't just enhance the user experience - it delivers real, high-intent leads to agencies, helping brokers close deals more efficiently. Question: Innovation seems to be at the heart of Skyloov's approach. What features set you apart from other property portals? Answer: Innovation is in our DNA. One of our standout features is "List Your Property" - a self-service tool for property owners to directly upload listings via our website or app. It simplifies the process and puts control in the hands of the owners. We also launched Broker Connect, a unique in-app feature allowing brokers across the UAE to connect in real time. They can send and receive property requests, share listings, and finalize agreements - all from one place. This tool makes collaboration faster and more efficient, helping brokers close deals without the back-and-forth. Another breakthrough is AI Voice Search - a first in the UAE. Users can simply speak naturally, for example, 'a two-bedroom in JVC under 1.2 million,' and instantly get relevant results. It's smart, intuitive, and saves time. Question: Have you seen a measurable impact among agencies using Skyloov? Any success stories to share? Answer: Absolutely. We've seen incredible feedback from agencies. One agency recently received over 1,500 qualified leads in a single quarter, without paying inflated fees. Because we don't operate on a pay-to-play model, agencies of all sizes get a fair shot at visibility and performance. We're giving them not just a platform, but a competitive edge to grow sustainably. Question: Looking ahead, what is your long-term vision for Skyloov in the region? Answer: Our vision is to become the number one property portal in the Middle East, GCC, and Eastern Europe - not just by traffic, but by trust, innovation, and real impact. We aim to be the first platform that property seekers think of and the most reliable partner for agencies. We're not here to replace anyone - we're here to fix a broken system that has, for too long, benefited only a few. The future of real estate in the UAE is collaborative, transparent, and tech driven. Skyloov is here to lead that future. Final thoughts Skyloov's rise in less than a year reflects a deep-rooted understanding of the real estate market's needs and pain points. By combining affordable pricing, real-time collaboration tools, AI-powered personalisation, and a user-first approach, the platform is redefining what a real estate portal should be in the modern era. With a strong foundation, customer-first mindset, and powerful technology, Skyloov is not just disrupting the market - it's setting a new standard for what property portals should be.
