Latest news with #TenthFive-YearPlan
Observer
5 days ago
- Business
- Observer
RO 2.59 billion invested in tourism projects
MUSCAT: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has confirmed that land usufruct agreements signed across various governorates are playing a key role in advancing Oman's tourism sector and enriching visitor experiences. These efforts are part of the national strategy to enhance tourism investments and support sustainable development. Operating under the Tenth Five-Year Plan (2021–2025), the Ministry aims to attract RO 3 billion in private tourism investment. So far, RO 2.59 billion has been secured, with a strong focus on integrating small and medium enterprises (SMEs) into tourism-related value chains. From early 2024 to the end of May 2025, 45 land usufruct contracts were signed — 14 of them this year — to implement various tourism projects across Oman. These include eco-friendly luxury camps, hotels, and resorts catering to different market segments. Ameera bint Iqbal al Lawati, Director General of Tourism Development at the Ministry, said the goal is to diversify Oman's tourism offerings both geographically and functionally. 'These projects go beyond traditional accommodation and aim to deliver integrated tourism experiences that enhance destination appeal while supporting local communities through job creation and economic activity,' she said. Ameera bint Iqbal al Lawati, Director General of Tourism Development at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism. She added that the Ministry seeks to balance supply and demand by expanding services in ecotourism, mountain tourism, and adventure tourism, all while maintaining Omani identity and environmental values. Al Lawati underscored the importance of private sector collaboration and ensuring that citizens see tangible benefits from these investments in their communities. — ONA
Muscat Daily
5 days ago
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Oman's tourism sector attracts RO2.59bn in investments
Muscat – The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) has attracted investments worth RO2.59bn in the tourism sector during the period 2021–25, reinforcing Oman's goal of becoming a leading tourism destination in the region. Amira bint Iqbal al Lawati, Director General of Tourism Development at the ministry, said the investments are part of a national programme that aims to secure RO3bn in private sector funding for tourism by the end of 2025. As part of this strategy, the ministry has increased the signing of usufruct contracts for tourism-related land in different governorates, allowing long-term use by investors. These agreements are seen as a key tool to drive investment and improve the quality of tourism services across the sultanate. Amira noted that these efforts align with Oman's Tenth Five-Year Plan (2021–25) and wider sustainable development goals. From January 2024 to the end of May 2025, the ministry signed 45 usufruct contracts, including 14 this year alone. Amira bint Iqbal al Lawati In Muscat, a luxury tourist camp will open in Quraiyat near Ras al Shajar Nature Reserve, promoting eco-tourism in an area known for its diverse landscape and wildlife. Dakhliyah will see multiple projects, including a luxury camp in Al Hamra; two three-star hotels in Jabal Akhdar's Sayh Qatnah and Al Shayf; a five-star resort in Sa'al, Nizwa; and three more resorts in Al Hamra ranging from three to four stars. In South Batinah, a three-star resort has been planned in Al Awid, Musannah, to be developed alongside other facilities to attract visitors. North Sharqiyah will have a luxury camp in Al Raka, Bidiyah, making use of the desert landscape for adventure tourism. A three-star hotel is also planned for Sinaw. In Dhofar, a resthouse will be built in Rakhyut, complementing services along Mughsail Beach, a popular site in the governorate. A resthouse has also been planned in Wadi al Jizzi, Buraimi, designed to integrate with the area's natural surroundings. Amira said the ministry's approach includes expanding accommodation and promoting eco-tourism, mountain tourism and adventure tourism, to attract both local and international visitors and support long-term economic growth. She underlined the importance of small and medium enterprises in the tourism value chain. 'By creating jobs and supporting entrepreneurship, the ministry aims to ensure the benefits of tourism reach local communities,' she said.
Muscat Daily
6 days ago
- Business
- Muscat Daily
RO4.57mn infrastructure push to spur South Batinah economy
Muscat – South Batinah governorate has launched a few infrastructure and service projects worth more than RO4.57mn as part of its plans to boost investment, tourism and job opportunities across its wilayats. The projects, overseen by the South Batinah Governorate Development Committee under the Office of the Governor, cover Barka, Musannah, Wadi al Maawil, Al Awabi and Nakhal. Officials say the initiative supports the decentralisation goals set out in Oman's Tenth Five-Year Plan and Vision 2040. 'These projects aim to create an attractive and competitive environment for investment and sustainable growth,' said Saud bin Said al Maawali, Deputy Head of the Municipal Council and chairman of the committee. Among the largest projects is the Musannah Waterfront Development, a 2km site in the Al Uwaid area, now 35% complete. The RO1.7mn project will include restaurants, shops, play areas, sports facilities and beach activities. In Wadi al Maawil, a new commercial souq covering 16,000sqm is nearly finished. The RO319,000 project has 27 retail units, which is expected to boost local trade and tourism. The Al Awabi Souq is more than 70% complete. Built at a cost of RO200,000, it will have 16 shops across 1,200sqm, supporting small businesses in the wilayat. Nakhal's public park development is 70% complete. The RO452,000 project includes spaces for small and medium enterprises and productive families. In Barka, work continues on a waterfront project in the Al Muraisi area, now 55% done. The 2km development, costing RO1.9mn, will feature tourism and investment zones, sports and leisure facilities, and services for tour operators. 'These projects upgrade infrastructure and support SMEs, jobseekers and entrepreneurs in the region,' Maawali said. 'We aim to align our development priorities with the needs of citizens and sustainable growth principles.' The initiatives are expected to raise the quality of life and strengthen the local economy of South Batinah.
Observer
6 days ago
- Business
- Observer
RO 4.5 million in development projects in Al Batinah South
AL RUSTAQ: Al Batinah South Governorate is pressing ahead with a series of infrastructure and development projects worth RO 4.5 million, aimed at stimulating investment, trade and tourism across its wilayats. The projects are being overseen by the Governor's Office through its Development Committee, which plays a key role in advancing the governorate's strategic growth agenda. According to Saud bin Said al Maawali, Deputy Chairman of the Municipal Council and Head of the Development Committee, the projects reflect broader efforts to strengthen the local economy, support small and medium enterprises (SMEs), generate employment for youth and enhance infrastructure and tourism offerings. Al Maawali said the projects are aligned with Oman's decentralisation policy and form part of the national economic transformation strategy under the Tenth Five-Year Plan and Oman Vision 2040. 'We are focusing on initiatives that not only enhance public services and amenities but also promote economic vibrancy and community well-being,' he added. Among the major undertakings is the Barka Waterfront Development Project in Al Muraisi, which stretches over two kilometres and is designed to become a major recreational and tourism hub. With an investment of RO 1.9 million and 55% of construction completed, the project will feature sports and entertainment facilities, support services for tourists and designated investment zones aimed at creating jobs for locals. In Al Musannah, a similar waterfront development is underway in Al Awaid at a cost of RO 1.7 million. Currently 35% complete, the project spans two kilometres and includes plans for restaurants, commercial outlets, children's play areas and sports facilities to enhance the area's appeal for residents and visitors alike. Other key initiatives include the Wadi Al Maawil Commercial Market, which is nearly complete with a 95% construction rate. Covering 16,000 square metres and comprising 27 shops, the RO 319,000 project is expected to become a focal point for commerce and tourism in the wilayat. Meanwhile, the Al Awabi Commercial Market, built over 1,200 square metres with an investment of RO 200,000, has reached 70% completion. The project will house 16 shops and is part of ongoing efforts to revitalise economic and social activity in Al Awabi. Another significant development is the upgrade of Nakhal Public Park, which is 70% complete at a cost of RO 452,000. Enhancements include new recreational facilities and improved infrastructure to transform the park into a major family and tourism destination. The project also includes three dedicated spaces for SMEs and local family businesses, offering fresh investment opportunities in Nakhal and surrounding areas.— ONA
Observer
11-06-2025
- Business
- Observer
Oman unlocks RO 11 bn to power 10th 5-year plan
MUSCAT: Oman's Ministry of Economy has revealed that total development allocations under the Tenth Five-Year Plan (2021–2025) reached RO 11.009 billion by the end of March 2025. This reflects a 72% increase compared to the initial allocation of RO 6.414 billion when the plan was launched. The rise in development spending is part of a broader national effort to stimulate growth and support Oman Vision 2040. According to the ministry's performance report, the increase was driven by four main policy priorities. First, the government has strengthened investment in social development projects and programmes, aiming to improve citizens' quality of life. Second, funding has been directed towards economic diversification, with new initiatives supporting sectors beyond oil and gas. Third, the government is focusing on governorate-level development to reduce regional disparities and ensure more balanced economic progress. Fourth, significant efforts have been made to improve the investment environment, attracting both local and foreign investors. The Ministry of Economy stated that the additional funding supports national infrastructure, job creation and the long-term sustainability of the economy. The Tenth Five-Year Plan remains a key instrument for realising the strategic objectives of Oman Vision 2040. This surge in allocations highlights the Sultanate of Oman's commitment to economic transformation and inclusive development across all regions.
