Oman Tourism: Extensive investment in tourism projects
Oman Tourism: Between 2021 and 2025, a total of 363 tourism projects will be implemented in all governorates of the Sultanate by public and private investors. The total investment volume amounts to an impressive OMR 2.29 billion (around EUR 5.37 billion). The MHT expects more projects to be added, bringing investment up to OMR three billion (about EUR 7 billion).
The ministry is working to promote tourism investment in all sectors to keep pace with the growing tourism movement in the country. According to Salim Al Mahrouqi, Oman’s Minister of Heritage and Tourism, the investments are also aimed at realizing the Sultanate’s full potential.
Al Mahrouqi emphasizes that preference will be given to projects that promote tourism in the short and long term, highlight and preserve cultural heritage, and are currently relevant to the tourism market. The goal is to appeal to different types of visitors and support small and medium-sized businesses and local communities.
Twelve integrated tourism complexes in planning
Currently, twelve integrated tourism complexes with an investment value of OMR 3.9 billion (about EUR 9.15 billion) are being implemented in the Sultanate. These account for the majority of investment in the tourism sector and include projects such as Al Mouj, Barr Al Jissah Resort, Mandarin Oriental and The Residences at Mandarin Oriental Muscat, Al Diyar Ras Al Hadd Resort, Hawana Salalah, Yiti Sustainable City and many more.
Other integrated tourism complexes in preparation
Preparations are already underway for additional integrated tourism complexes in the governorates of Muscat, Musandam and Al Sharqiya South with an estimated total investment value of OMR 2.5 billion (about EUR 5.86 billion). The MHT looks to diversify tourism and recreation components and enhance benefits for local communities and value chains.
High quality and versatile projects
In addition, projects with a total investment volume of OMR 262 million (around EUR 615 million) are being implemented, including the Botanical Garden near Muscat and the Village Project and Salalah Gardens (The Nargil Farm).
Projects on the islands of Hallaniyat and Daymaniyat will also be developed by 2025, with an estimated investment cost of OMR 137 million (around EUR 321 million).
Prestigious hotel brands in focus
The Sultanate is also trying to attract renowned hotel brands such as the Canadian luxury hotel group Four Seasons, which is planning a property in Muscat. In the last two years, 124 hotel projects with a total investment value of OMR 139 million (around EUR 326 million) have been completed, including properties from brands such as Avani, Intercity Hotel and Jumeirah in Muscat, as well as a dusitD2 in the Hajar Mountains.