MUSCAT: Ministry of Heritage and Tourism is planning to add major additions to the country’s tourism sector that could further boost the economy in the next two years.

Speaking in an interview with Oman TV, His Excellency Salim Al Mahrooqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism said three key projects involving recreational tourism are under development. The Al Sharq in the Blue City is expected to open in 2024, while construction work of the Nakhil Resort Project will start soon in Wilayat Quriyat. “The next two years will see big differences and major additions to Oman’s tourism sector,” Minister said.

According to the minister, OMR 700mn is spent outside the country by Omani tourists. “There is a deficit and a big difference in terms of what Omani tourists spend inside the country as opposed to what they spend abroad. It is our responsibility to reduce this deficit through the establishment of entertainment projects that attract Omani tourists,” he added.