Geo-Adventure Park, Wellness Retreat planned at Oman Botanic Garden

MUSCAT, MAY 8
Plans are afoot to transform the Oman Botanic Garden Reserve into a major eco-tourism and experiential destination with the proposed development of an upscale Geo-Adventure Park and a luxury Wellness Retreat Centre at Al Khoudh in Muscat Governorate.
The two projects, unveiled by Invest Oman – the Sultanate’s national investment promotion platform, are expected to add a strong sustainability and nature-based tourism dimension to one of the Sultanate’s most ambitious environmental and conservation landmarks. Combined initial investment in the projects is estimated at around RO 16 million.
According to Invest Oman, the Geo-Adventure Park is designed to combine geological discovery, outdoor adventure and environmental education in a way that highlights Oman’s extraordinary geological heritage and biodiversity while supporting sustainable tourism practices.
Planned over an area of around 115,000 square metres in Zone E of the Oman Botanic Garden Reserve, the project will include visitor reception and service facilities, geo-education and learning zones, outdoor activity areas, relaxation spaces and supporting utility infrastructure.
The attraction is envisioned as an immersive destination where visitors can explore Oman’s geological landscapes through eco-hikes, nature trails and interactive educational exhibits. Adventure offerings are expected to include hiking and trekking, ziplining, rock climbing, mountain biking, bungee jumping, Via Ferrata experiences and hot-air balloon rides. Nature-focused activities such as birdwatching, wildlife observation, stargazing and nature photography are also planned.
A key feature of the development will be its geo-education component. Proposed facilities include a geological exhibition hall showcasing fossils, minerals and interactive displays, alongside a palaeontology laboratory featuring mock excavation sites and educational programmes focused on environmental sciences. Outdoor classrooms and storytelling sessions centred on Omani folklore are also planned as part of the visitor experience.
The project further aims to integrate technology-driven experiences, including augmented reality applications that allow visitors to visualise ancient landscapes and geological transformations. Interactive exhibits explaining plate tectonics, rock cycles and volcanic activity, as well as earthquake and volcano simulators, are also under consideration.
Invest Oman said the development seeks to promote environmental awareness while positioning Oman as a destination for experiential and educational eco-tourism.
Meanwhile, Zone F of the Oman Botanic Garden Reserve has been earmarked for a high-end wellness retreat and eco-lodge complex that will feature around 50 luxury eco-lodges inspired by traditional Omani architecture and sustainable design principles.
Each eco-lodge is expected to include private outdoor patios and environmentally friendly green roofing systems integrated with the surrounding landscape. The retreat will also incorporate a comprehensive range of wellness facilities, including spa and hydrotherapy centres, yoga and meditation pavilions set amidst native vegetation and a holistic health centre offering nutrition counselling and detox programmes.
Outdoor fitness zones for activities such as yoga and Tai Chi, interactive organic gardens and an organic restaurant serving locally sourced produce are also planned. Additional components include boutique retail outlets offering wellness products, Omani handicrafts, eco-tourism souvenirs and sustainable lifestyle items.
Invest Oman noted that the project’s integration with the botanic garden’s biodiversity and conservation mission is expected to appeal strongly to eco-conscious travellers, wellness tourists and botany enthusiasts.
“The Wellness Retreat at Oman Botanic Garden represents a compelling investment opportunity that aligns perfectly with Oman Vision 2040 for economic diversification through sustainable tourism”, the agency stated, highlighting the project’s anticipated financial viability and strategic tourism potential.
Recently redesignated by Royal Decree as the Oman Botanic Garden Reserve and placed under the jurisdiction of Muscat Municipality, the destination is envisioned as one of the world’s largest botanical gardens dedicated exclusively to native flora.