MUSCAT: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has signed three significant usufruct agreements valued at over RO 56 million to develop integrated tourism projects in the wilayats of Khasab, Nakhal and Sur. The agreements, signed on Sunday, May 25, by Salim bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, mark a major step in Oman’s strategy to enhance its tourism sector and diversify the national economy.
The first agreement, signed with Omran Group and represented by its CEO Hashel bin Obaid al Mahrouqi, covers the development of Wadi Shab, Wilayat of Sur in Al Sharqiyah South Governorate. This project seeks to position Wadi Shab as a year-round eco-adventure destination, attracting both domestic and international tourists.
The planned development will include an adventure park featuring a zipline, mountain climbing trails, suspension bridges, walking paths, and designated swimming areas for both children and adults. The site will also offer restaurants and cafes, all designed to blend with the valley’s rich biodiversity, geological features and natural attractions such as clear water pools, caves and waterfalls. With an investment of RO 2 million, the project is expected to be completed within 18 months from the date the agreement is activated. It will also open new opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the area.
The second agreement was signed with Khasab Development and Investment Company, represented by its Managing Director Hilal bin Nasser al Harthy, to develop an integrated tourism complex named “Sandan – The Pearl of Khasab". Located on a 43,658-square-metre plot of government land, the project is strategically situated near key attractions such as Khasab Fort and the Atana Musandam Hotel.
It will feature a four-star hotel with 200 rooms, along with 450 residential units available for purchase by Omanis and non-Omanis alike. Complementing these will be a traditional-style market, retail outlets, diverse dining options, and various recreational and service facilities. With an investment cost estimated at RO 17 million, the project is expected to create between 250 and 300 jobs and will be completed within a seven-year period.
The third and largest agreement involves Hamyan Investment and Project Development Company, represented by Managing Director Saud bin Hamad al Taie. The company will develop “Hamyan Village", an integrated tourism complex in the Wilayat of Nakhal, Al Batinah South Governorate. Spanning 201,031 square metres of government land, the project will include a four-star hotel with 156 rooms and 535 residential units comprising villas and apartments, all available for local and foreign ownership. The development will also include a market, various restaurants, a water park, and a range of recreational and service amenities. With a total investment of RO 38 million, the project is expected to be completed within three years and will create between 300 and 350 job opportunities.
Commenting on the projects, Dr Rashid bin Saleh al Hinai, Director-General of Planning at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, noted that these developments reflect Oman’s commitment to sustainable tourism and economic diversification. He highlighted the expected positive impact on local communities through job creation and support for SMEs, while also enhancing Oman’s appeal as a leading destination for nature, heritage and adventure tourism. — ONA
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