Muscat: The ambitious Al Dakhiliyah Square project, extending over 145,000 square meters in the heart of Nizwa, promises to be a game-changer for the local economy, tourism, and infrastructure. With a total investment across various sectors including tourism, culture, health, and the environment, this development is expected to attract nearly 944,000 visitors annually while creating new opportunities for businesses and residents alike.

Scheduled for completion within two years, the project will feature 10 diverse investment sites and 50 usufruct contracts, offering a broad range of commercial activities. The site is expected to generate 340 permanent and temporary job opportunities, alongside the involvement of approximately 60 local families in various activities, fostering community engagement.

His Excellency Sheikh Hilal bin Saeed Al Hajri, Governor of Al Dakhiliyah, highlighted the project’s role in fulfilling the region’s vision for sustainable growth and providing a dynamic environment that benefits residents and visitors. “The Al Dakhiliyah Square project is an embodiment of the ambitious vision of the Al Dakhiliyah Governorate in sustainable development and providing an environment that meets the needs of the community.” He explained that the project is an open entertainment center that aims to promote tourism and economic development in the Wilayat of Nizwa and includes various facilities such as: exhibitions and open theaters, which will be used to host festivals, cultural events and laser shows, which will enable the region to be attractive as a tourist destination.

The square will boast a 3.9-kilometer main walkway, lush green spaces, and bicycle paths. An expansive open area, covering 80,000 square meters, will offer visitors various recreational options, including playgrounds for children, markets, restaurants, kiosks, and a cultural corner to foster creativity and community interaction.

This landmark development will be integrated with the Greater Nizwa Plan and the Nizwa Initiative for Healthy Patterns, enhancing the governorate’s overall infrastructure. Additionally, the square’s alignment with the national tree-planting initiative will contribute to local biodiversity and environmental sustainability. The collaboration with the Oman Oil Development Company will also ensure clean and renewable energy incorporation into its operations.

In terms of financial impact, the project is expected to generate annual returns of RO 500,000, with projections of a 5% growth rate, primarily from rental revenues and income from events and festivals. Furthermore, the square is poised to become a central part of Nizwa’s tourism strategy, which aims to increase visitor numbers to over 900,000 by 2026.