Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran Group) marked its 20th anniversary with the announcement of strategic tourism and investment projects worth RO3 billion ($7.7bn). The celebrations, held under the patronage of Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, showcased Omran’s growing role in shaping Oman’s tourism future.
Strategic Vision and Partnerships
Hashil Obaid al Mahrouqi, CEO of Omran Group, emphasized the Group’s strategy of building robust local and international partnerships, particularly in tourism investment and urban development. He highlighted upcoming projects that will transform Oman’s tourism landscape, including:
Advancing visitor experiences at Majlis al Jinn, Ras Al Shajar Cave, and Al Hoota Cave.
The Four Seasons project in Bandar al Rowdha.
Opera District Development.
The second phase of Madinat al Irfan.
The Salalah agro-tourism project, featuring the plantation of 1,000 coconut trees and five varieties of papaya.
Minister Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi noted that the completion of these projects will significantly elevate Oman’s tourism sector, aligning seamlessly with other ministry-led initiatives.
Leadership Perspectives
Azzan Qassim al Busaidi, Chairman of Omran Group, reaffirmed the Group’s commitment to Oman Vision 2040 and the National Tourism Strategy, pledging continued collaboration with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism.
Abdulsalam Mohammed al Murshidi, President of the Oman Investment Authority, described the announcements as an important milestone in Oman’s economic diversification, emphasizing the wide-ranging economic and social returns of strategic tourism investments.
Integrated Tourism Complexes and Flagship Projects
Key highlights included:
An agreement with VA Group to develop a mixed-use project at the Sultan Qaboos Port waterfront.
Three new partnerships under the Yiti Integrated Tourism Development: two mixed-use projects with VA Group and Aurelian Group, and a luxury Nobu resort with Enevória Development.
A partnership with Oman Agriculture Development Company to develop Janaen Salalah, the first integrated agri-tourism project in the Sultanate.
Design models were also revealed for flagship developments, including Madinat Al Irfan, Sultan Qaboos Port Waterfront, the Four Seasons Resort, and the Opera District. Additionally, the event unveiled the design of the Club Med Resort in Musandam, the brand’s first in Oman and the wider region. Updates were shared on luxury wellness and eco-resorts such as Santani Jabal Shams Resort and Alie Nivas Musandam Resort.
Expanding Tourism Experiences
Omran highlighted progress on projects designed to enhance visitor experiences:
Wadi Shab and its natural exploration activities.
Ras Al Shajar Nature Reserve, a model for eco-tourism.
Majlis Al Jinn Cave, one of the world’s largest caves.
Al Hoota Cave, offering educational and leisure attractions.
Hayl Al Diyar, which integrates cultural and recreational activities.
These initiatives enrich Oman’s tourism proposition, reinforcing its global appeal for adventure, culture, and eco-tourism.
Innovation and New Ventures
Omran also announced several strategic investments to strengthen its digital and cultural portfolio:
Acquiring a stake in UnderTheDoormat, boosting the alternative accommodation market.
Investing in Godoba, a digital travel platform supporting tourism’s digital transformation.
Partnering with Handicrafts House – Dar Al Herfya to create a dedicated crafts and heritage centre in Muttrah.
Looking Ahead
Together, these projects and partnerships signal a new era for Oman’s tourism sector. They underline Omran’s role as the executive arm of the Sultanate’s tourism development, committed to driving sustainable growth, cultural preservation, and international recognition in alignment with Oman Vision 2040.
Source: Oman Daily Observer
