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Oman News

Oman signs RO 56 million tourism deals to boost Khasab, Nakhal, and Sur

The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has inked three usufruct agreements worth over RO 56 million to establish two integrated tourism complexes and revamp the iconic Wadi Al Shab.

TAS News Service

info@thearabianstories.com

Sunday, May 25, 2025

Muscat: The projects span the Wilayats of Khasab, Nakhal, and Sur, and aim to create new job opportunities, enhance local economies, and promote year-round tourism.

The agreements were signed today by His Excellency Salem bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, marking a significant milestone in Oman’s Vision 2040 strategy for sustainable tourism development.

The first agreement, signed with Omran Group, focuses on developing Wadi Al Shab in Tiwi, Wilayat of Sur. Omran, represented by CEO Hashel bin Obaid Al Mahrouqi, will transform the valley into a premier adventure and eco-tourism destination. Plans include a zip line, mountain climbing routes, suspension bridges, walking trails, dedicated swimming areas, as well as cafes and restaurants. The RO 2 million project is expected to be completed within 18 months and will also create opportunities for small and medium enterprises.

The second usufruct contract was signed with Khasab Development and Investment Company, represented by Managing Director Hilal bin Nasser bin Hamad Al Harthy. It entails the construction of Sandan – Pearl of Khasab, a seafront integrated tourism complex near Khasab Fort. Spread across 43,658 sqm, the RO 17 million development will include a 4-star hotel with 200 rooms, 450 residential apartments open to Omanis and foreign buyers, a heritage-style market, retail shops, and recreational facilities. The project will create between 250 and 300 job opportunities and is slated for completion within 7 years.

The third agreement was signed with Hamyan Investment and Project Development Company for the Hamyan Village project in the Halban area of Wilayat Nakhl. Represented by Managing Director Saud bin Hamad Al Taie, the project will be developed over 201,031 sqm and will include a 4-star hotel with 156 rooms, 535 residential units (apartments and villas), restaurants, a market, a water park, and other recreational facilities. With a total investment of RO 38 million, it is expected to generate 300 to 350 jobs and be completed in just three years.

Dr. Rashid bin Saleh Al Hinai, Director General of Planning at the Ministry, emphasized that these projects are pivotal to enhancing Oman’s tourism infrastructure while also supporting job creation and SME growth.

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