Muscat – These projects span across multiple wilayats in the governorate and are aimed at addressing local needs while aligning with the broader national vision of empowering Oman’s regional governance and fostering sustainable development.

In a statement to the Oman News Agency, H.E. Sheikh Ahmed bin Muslim bin Suhail Jadad Al Kathiri, Governor of Al Wusta, outlined the governorate’s progress in implementing development initiatives, particularly focusing on enhancing infrastructure, preserving the environment, and promoting economic growth.

The governorate has already completed 59 projects, valued at approximately RO 4 million. Additionally, 37 projects are currently underway, with an investment of around RO 9.9 million, while 44 new projects are planned to be executed within the remaining period of the 10th Five-Year Plan, with a projected cost of approximately RO 11.6 million.

H.E. Kathiri emphasized the importance of these initiatives in improving the lives of citizens and residents across Al Wusta. He highlighted several high-impact projects, including the establishment of 6 service sites; Knowledge Park Project in Haima; and the completion of the design for a major bus station in Al-Ajaiz and Abu Mudhabi.

His Excellency also underscored the governorate’s focus on sustainability and environmental preservation. Several key projects are set to enhance the natural beauty of the region while promoting green energy and climate resilience. These include an investment of RP 38.5 million to establish artificial lakes for planting mangrove trees and 5 national projects in the fields of green hydrogen, solar energy, and wind energy, with a combined investment value of RO 18.8 billion.
He further highlighted Al Wusta’s critical role as a key player in Oman’s broader economic diversification strategy. The governorate’s strategic location, particularly in Duqm, makes it a major regional centre for the maritime logistics sector. The Duqm Special Economic Zone alone has attracted investments totalling more than RO 6 billion by the third quarter of 2024.

Moreover, the governorate’s fisheries sector, which constitutes 37 percent of its GDP, remains a pillar of its economy. High-impact projects in this sector include the Al Jazar shrimp farming project (investment of RO 462 million) that is expected to produce 220,000 tons annually; fish and food industry projects valued at RO 105 million; and marine fishing ports and development of fish markets and fishermen’s villages in Duqm and Al Jazar, totalling RO 102 million.
The governorate is also leveraging its pristine coastal beaches and unique desert environment to attract investment in tourism. Key tourist attractions such as the Bar Al Hikman area in Mahout, Ras Madrakah in Duqm, and the pink lakes in Al Jazar are expected to be major draws for both domestic and international visitors.
The desert environment in Al Wusta is also being developed as a natural habitat for wildlife, offering opportunities for eco-tourism and nature-based investment.