MUSCAT : According to the Ministry, these projects aim to maximize Oman’s rich cultural heritage and natural resources, while positioning the Sultanate as a leading destination for sustainable tourism and global investment. Initiatives such as Sultan Haitham City and New Salalah City, designed as smart and sustainable urban hubs, will further support this transformation.

The Ministry highlighted the progress made in infrastructure development and the Governorates Development Program, which has increased competitiveness, improved services, and created opportunities for SMEs, local jobs, and community engagement. By the end of 2024, the program had delivered over 270 projects, including 162 parks and walkways, 60 tourism-related projects, and more than 50 cultural festivals such as the Sur Maritime Heritage Festival and Al Buraimi Carnival.

Landmark cultural and tourism projects are also underway. These include the Oman Across Time Museum, already open as a cultural icon, the nearing completion of the Oman Botanical Garden, and progress on the Oman Cultural Complex, which will serve as a major cultural and educational hub.

Tourism growth has already outpaced expectations. From 2021–2024, the sector’s average real value-added growth reached 6.2%, well above the 1.4% target. In 2024, its contribution to GDP stood at RO 691 million, with the first quarter of 2025 recording an 11.7% growth rate, raising its GDP contribution from RO 181 million in Q1 2024 to RO 202 million this year.

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