SALALAH: Youth initiatives in Oman, particularly in the Dhofar Governorate, are playing a vital role in stimulating economic activity and creating investment opportunities that not only enhance the national economy but also boost individual income and generate employment for young people.
The Khareef Dhofar being an extraordinary season, has catalysed numerous innovative youth projects, supported by relevant official bodies and in partnership with private sector institutions.
One such entrepreneurial endeavor is the 'Osara' entertainment project.
Majid bin Ali Al Masahli, one of the project’s founders, explained that the idea behind 'Osara' is to create an integrated tourist and entertainment hub along the Raysut beach in Salalah.
Managed by a dynamic group of Omani youth, it represents a comprehensive tourist destination offering a variety of entertainment and cultural activities, as well as relaxation zones suitable for all age groups.
Al Masahli further noted that the project was included in the Khareef Autumn 2024 events, featuring various programmes to cater to visitors, such as cultural and entertainment events, restaurants, and cafes with stunning sea views, along with serene beach sessions.
The 'Osara' project is also noteworthy for its commitment to environmental sustainability, having been constructed using 70 per cent recycled wood. Al Masahli highlighted plans to enhance the site’s tourism services with new recreational activities, including an archery challenge, axe throwing, jet skiing, water boating, and horseback riding.
Established in 2022 through the efforts of Omani youth, the 'Osara' project has thrived with the support of Dhofar Municipality, the Public Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Salalah Port, and the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry. This project is a testament to the ongoing efforts to encourage and develop youth initiatives while strengthening the entrepreneurship sector in the governorate.
Another inspiring story is that of Nader bin Bakhit Fadel, founder of the 'Lamir Al Mughsail' site.
Now in its third year since its inception in 2022, this youth-managed project has developed into a vibrant tourist and entertainment destination. It features various restaurants and cafes, a children’s play area, pleasure boats for sea trips, an artificial waterfall, and beach seating specifically designed for families.
Fadel emphasised that his project enhances tourism in the Al Mughsail area of Salalah, offering diverse entertainment and tourism services to families and visitors during the autumn season, while also providing employment opportunities for Omani youth and small and medium enterprise (SME) owners. With support from Dhofar Municipality, Oman Telecommunications Company (Omantel), and the Public Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Fadel’s future plans for 'Lamir Al Mughsail' include expanding its operations to serve tourists during various seasons in coordination with relevant authorities.
Hamza bin Mohammed Al Ghassani, the owner of the 'Seda Park' site in the Itin Plain of Salalah, is another entrepreneur whose project has flourished. 'Seda Park' offers a collection of mobile carts serving meals, drinks, and related services, with participation from well-known local and international cafes and restaurants.
Al Ghassani noted that 'Seda Park' aims to showcase cultural, artistic, and entertainment activities with both local and international flair. The site features over 45 fixed and mobile food carts offering a wide range of local, Arab, and international cuisine, alongside a 'Seda Boutique' corner for shopping and displaying products from productive families. Additionally, 'Seda Park' boasts a theater for entertainment and artistic performances, as well as an open-air cinema.
Similarly, Abdul Salam Al Rawas, owner of the 'Revel Park' site in Itin Plain, emphasised the success of his youth-led project, which is implemented by 'Sar' Events Company in its second edition. The site offers a dedicated area for mobile sales outlets from local and international restaurants and cafes, with 50 outlets providing a diverse range of foods and beverages. This initiative has created a vibrant entertainment and commercial hub that appeals to citizens, residents, and tourists alike.
Al Rawas noted that the 'Revel Park' site has attracted many visitors during the Dhofar tourism season, thanks to its variety of local and international food and drinks, as well as entertainment and artistic events suitable for all ages. The project, supported by Dhofar Municipality and the Public Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development, provides a valuable opportunity for business owners to showcase and sell their products in a prime location.
These youth-led initiatives in Dhofar not only contribute to the local economy but also showcase the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of Omani youth, making Dhofar a vibrant destination during the exceptional Khareef Dhofar season. - ONA
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