Industrial development requires more than investment and infrastructure. It depends on leadership capable of improving operational performance, strengthening businesses and creating the conditions for sustainable economic growth.

For Raid Al Rubaiey, these priorities have shaped more than two decades of experience across aluminium, oil and gas, petrochemicals, food processing and industrial services.

Today, as CEO of SOHAR Freezone and Deputy CEO of SOHAR Port, he brings extensive experience in industrial transformation, financial management and strategic leadership to one of Oman’s important industrial and logistics centres.

From Engineering to Industrial Leadership

Al Rubaiey began his career with Schlumberger, working in directional drilling and logging operations in Oman and the United States. He subsequently joined Dow Chemical in the Netherlands, gaining experience in production engineering, process improvement and operational efficiency.

His career developed significantly at Sohar Aluminium, where he spent more than eight years progressing through operational management positions.

As Anode Plant Operations Manager, he led initiatives that improved equipment reliability and reduced maintenance costs by 30% in 2013 and a further 10% in 2014.

His work also contributed to approximately US$1 million in savings through value creation projects, while Omanisation exceeded 72% across operations and maintenance within his area of responsibility.

These achievements established a leadership approach grounded in operational discipline, workforce development and measurable performance.

Transforming Industrial Performance

In 2015, Al Rubaiey became Chief Operating Officer of Oman Aluminium Rolling Company (OARC), taking responsibility for organisational restructuring and operational improvement.

Working alongside the company’s financial leadership, he helped address financial challenges, strengthen commercial performance and restore relationships with key suppliers.

His professional record reports a 50% improvement in EBITDA following the implementation of a value creation strategy.

He also helped resolve significant equipment deficiencies, avoiding a potential US$30 million equipment write-off.

The experience demonstrated his ability to approach organisational turnaround through a combination of financial discipline, operational improvements and stakeholder engagement.

Sustainable industrial growth begins with stronger operations, capable teams and disciplined execution.

Connecting Business Development With National Priorities

Al Rubaiey’s leadership subsequently expanded into food processing and industrial investment.

As CEO of Oman Oilseeds Crushing Company from 2018 to 2022, he led the organisational and commercial development of a proposed US$180 million integrated oilseed processing project at Sohar.

The initiative was designed to strengthen domestic food-processing capabilities and contribute to Oman’s food security objectives.

His responsibilities included assembling an executive team, refining the business model and establishing the contracting framework required to advance the project.

He later served as Managing Director of Majis Industrial Services from November 2022 to September 2025, further extending his experience into industrial utilities and infrastructure-related services.

These assignments reflect his ability to apply industrial management expertise across sectors with different operational and economic requirements.

Leading SOHAR Freezone and Supporting Port Development

In October 2025, Al Rubaiey assumed his current responsibilities as CEO of SOHAR Freezone and Deputy CEO of SOHAR Port.

The appointment represents an important progression from managing industrial businesses to supporting the wider environment in which such businesses operate.

SOHAR Port and Freezone connect industrial activity, logistics and international trade, making infrastructure, investor relationships and operational competitiveness important considerations.

Al Rubaiey’s experience across manufacturing, utilities and industrial investment provides a practical understanding of the requirements facing businesses operating within these environments.

His leadership background connects commercial strategy with the operational realities of industrial development.

Entrepreneurship, Governance and Professional Development

Beyond his executive appointments, Al Rubaiey has contributed to entrepreneurial initiatives and corporate governance.

As Co-Founder of Unique Creativity Consulting, he participated in industrial startup development, SME turnaround assignments and Lean Six Sigma consultancy.

He also co-founded Madarek, an initiative focused on developing a digital platform for collaborative innovation.

His governance experience includes serving as Chairman of Oman Sustainable Water Services, membership of the Oman Business Forum’s Board of Trustees, and his ongoing position as a Board Member of Sun Packaging Company.

Academically, he holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Sultan Qaboos University, an MBA from Alliance Manchester Business School, and has pursued doctoral studies in Business Administration at Coventry University.

He is also a graduate of Oman’s National CEO Programme at IMD Business School.

Effective leadership connects technical understanding with commercial judgement and the ability to develop people and organisations.

Recognition by Icons Oman

Raid Al Rubaiey’s professional journey reflects a sustained contribution to Oman’s industrial and business landscape.

From engineering and manufacturing operations to organisational turnaround, industrial investment and executive leadership, his career demonstrates an ability to navigate complex business environments and deliver operational improvements.

Today, as CEO of SOHAR Freezone and Deputy CEO of SOHAR Port, he brings this experience into a role connected to the Sultanate’s industrial competitiveness and long-term economic development.

For Icons Oman, Al Rubaiey represents Omani executive leadership built on practical expertise, strategic responsibility and a commitment to strengthening the industries and institutions supporting the country’s economic future.