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EDITOR IN CHIEF- ABDULLAH BIN SALIM AL SHUEILI

Mega leisure project to come up in Barka

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By Staff Reporter — MUSCAT: Dec. 21: Muscat National Development & Investment Company (ASAAS) has announced its third major project in the Sultanate — a 1.5 million square metre entertainment and leisure destination to be built in Barka. Promoting domestic and international tourism, this mega-project has been specifically planned to complement and enhance the Sultanate’s existing tourism attractions.


The first development of its kind and scale in Oman, this outstanding national asset will boast an integrated theme park, a wildlife and waterpark, an equestrian centre and edutainment centre as well as multiple hotels, a residential zone, retail areas that will offer a range of retail, leisure and dining options.


Muscat Finance Corporation Ltd (MFCL) has transferred, through one of its group companies, a plot of 1.5 million square meters in its project, previously known as Blue City, to ASAAS.


Khalid al Yahmadi, CEO, ASAAS, said: “The result of extensive local and regional research and consultation, this entertainment and leisure destination, in common with all ASAAS projects and investments, will support the Sultanate’s agenda to diversify the economy and drive societal progress. Indeed, benefiting the country as a whole, it will deliver sustainable economic returns, attract investment, stimulate development and enterprise, and create a multitude of direct and indirect job opportunities.”


He went on to explain that ASAAS has identified a renowned American company based out of Orlando, to operate the theme park and wildlife park and that the names of other partners in this mega-project will be announced in the near future. He further stressed that the family-oriented destination in Barka will be able to strongly communicate its unique offerings to the public and also leverage the beauty of the natural landscape to showcase Oman’s heritage and traditions, honouring local culture and history through its design, architecture and activities.


Built on a high-profile premium destination stretching approximately one kilometre on the beach front, the project will offer both lifestyle and educational aspects for children and adults.


ASAAS was found in 2014 through the concerted efforts of key government entities and Pension Funds, aims to increase the economic contributions of the non-oil and gas sectors by initiating and developing sustainable projects.


Over the next five to ten years it will develop a diverse portfolio of projects worth approximately RO 1 billion, which will contribute to the country’s economic diversification strategy and connect the people to the national agenda.


The Barka Entertainment and Leisure Destination is a key project to be launched by ASAAS and follows on from its establishment of SalamAir, Oman’s first budget airline, the announcement of Hilton Garden Inn and of a multi-use facility in Al Khuwair.


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