MUSCAT: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has signed 36 usufruct contracts worth RO 100 million to develop a range of tourism projects across multiple governorates, reinforcing Oman’s strategy to expand its hospitality sector and attract domestic and international investors.
The projects — covering hotels, integrated resorts and eco-tourism camps — aim to enhance the country’s tourism infrastructure, create jobs for local communities and support the growth of small and medium enterprises within the sector. Officials said the move is aligned with Oman Vision 2040 goal of promoting sustainable tourism and diversifying the economy.
In Muscat Governorate, four contracts were signed, including two tourist camps in the Wilayat of Qurayat, a three-star resort and an integrated tourism complex in the Wilayat of Bausher. Dhofar Governorate secured two contracts, one for an existing resort in the Wilayat of Rakhyout and another for an integrated tourism complex.
Al Dakhiliyah Governorate saw the signing of 10 contracts, ranging from three-star hotels to five-star resorts, including a tourist camp in Jabal Shams and a one-star hotel in the Wilayat of Al Jabal Al Akhdhar. Al Batinah South Governorate signed four contracts, while Al Buraimi Governorate signed one for an integrated resort.
Al Sharqiyah North Governorate led the count with 11 contracts, concentrated mainly in the Wilayat of Bidiyah, including several tourist camps, three-star resorts and a commercial tourism investment project in the Wilayat of Ibra. Al Sharqiyah South Governorate followed with three contracts in the Wilayats of Sur and Jaalan Bani Bu Hassan, covering a resort and two tourist camps. Musandam Governorate signed one contract for an integrated tourism complex in the Wilayat of Khasab.
The Ministry emphasised that these investments will not only provide economic and social benefits but also strengthen Oman’s position as a high-quality tourism destination. By increasing hotel capacity and improving service standards, the projects aim to deliver integrated experiences for visitors that highlight Oman’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and diverse landscapes.
Officials added that the projects will support local supply chains, encourage innovation in tourism offerings and empower SMEs to play a larger role in the sector. With a focus on sustainable development, the Ministry said the contracts will contribute to enhancing Oman’s tourism ecosystem while generating long-term employment opportunities for communities across the Sultanate of Oman.
This strategic push comes as part of Oman’s broader plan to balance economic growth with cultural preservation and environmental stewardship, ensuring that tourism contributes positively to the nation’s social and economic development goals. — ONA
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