Abu Dhabi has announced a major investment of $208 million to transform Salalah, Oman, into a premier luxury tourism destination. Led by the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), this initiative marks a new chapter in UAE-Oman economic cooperation, with a focus on strengthening tourism, infrastructure, and regional development.
Project Overview
This ambitious investment underlines Abu Dhabi’s vision to elevate Salalah—renowned for its lush landscapes and cool climate—into a high-end tourism hotspot. The development plan covers everything from upscale lodging and modern leisure facilities to upgraded infrastructure meant to attract both regional and global visitors.
Investment: $208 million by ADFD
Location: Salalah, Oman
Development Area: 604,000 m² in the first phase, expanding to 2.5 million m²
Accommodation: Luxury resort with 120+ rooms and private beachfront chalets
Facilities: Marina, revitalized beaches, recreational waterfront
Infrastructure: Upgraded roads, utilities, and tourism amenities
This large-scale tourism project is expected to substantially enhance Salalah’s global visibility and appeal, attracting high-spending travelers seeking quality and exclusivity.
Supporting Oman Vision 2040
The Salalah project is closely aligned with Oman Vision 2040, which prioritizes economic diversification through the growth of non-oil sectors such as tourism and hospitality. The project’s long-term impact includes:
Creation of hundreds of direct and indirect jobs
Support for local SMEs and entrepreneurs
Youth-focused training and skill-building initiatives
Strengthening public-private partnerships in tourism and hospitality
By encouraging sustainable tourism and community development, the project sets the stage for inclusive and resilient economic growth in Oman.
Reinforcing UAE-Oman Economic Ties
This initiative reflects the deepening strategic alliance between the UAE and Oman. It follows several landmark bilateral agreements focused on industrial development, energy, and infrastructure:
$35.1 billion in recently announced joint projects
$31.8 billion set aside for upcoming industrial and renewable energy initiatives
Strengthened bilateral relations following high-level official visits
Together, these projects highlight the shared commitment of both nations to regional prosperity, further positioning the GCC as a united and forward-looking economic bloc.
Source: travelandtourworld.com
