Muscat – In an era of renewed renaissance under the guidance of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, Al Wusta governorate is experiencing a comprehensive development across its four wilayats – Haima, Mahout, Duqm, and Al Jazar. 

This progress reflects the sultanate’s commitment to improve various sectors in line with Oman Vision 2040.

The Special Economic Zone at Duqm, a key industrial and investment hub, significantly bolsters this vision. 

The first Duqm Economic Forum, which was recently inaugurated by H H Sayyid Dhi Yazan bin Haitham al Said, Minister of Culture, Sports, and Youth, deeply focused on green industries and small and medium enterprise opportunities, signalling a pivot towards sustainable economic practices.

Al Wusta governorate is not only a melting pot of geographical wonders but also is a burgeoning hub for tourism development. 

Bakhit bin Amer al Omari, Director of the Department of Heritage and Tourism, spoke about  several tourism projects that the governorate is currently developing. These include a three-star resort in the Bintut area of the wilayat of Mahout and enhancements to Shanah Beach and mini oases in the Al Juba region of Mahout as well as the Zahr region in wilayat Duqm. 

Additionally, there’s a concerted effort to develop public beaches and mini oases across the governorate, aimed at enriching the experience of tourists transiting through the region.

“These projects signify a strategic focus on amplifying the governorate’s appeal as a tourist destination, showcasing its diverse landscapes while offering enhanced facilities and services to visitors.”

Al Wusta’s extended beaches contribute significantly to Oman’s artisanal fishing production, leading in the first seven months of this year. The governorate’s diverse marine life, from pelagic and demersal fish to crustaceans and molluscs, is enhanced by its Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean coastlines.

In agriculture, the Directorate of Agricultural Wealth, Fisheries, and Water Resources is focused on food security, offering over 80 hectares of land for fodder cultivation in 2023. This initiative is part of the objectives of Oman Vision 2040.

Under the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, significant strides are being made to improve road safety and sustainability in Al Wusta governorate. 

Bakhit bin Salem al Awaed, Director of the Roads Department, informed that a successful trial of solar lighting was conducted on Bridge No 1 – about 50km from the wilayat of Haima. Encouraged by this success, the department is now planning to implement solar energy solutions across all bridges in the governorate. 

“This initiative not only underscores our commitment to sustainable energy but also ensures enhanced visibility and safety on these structures.”

The department is also actively engaged in continuous quicksand removal operations on the roads, a crucial step in making all road in the region safe. 

Engineer Rashid bin Saeed al Kindi, Director General of Al Wusta Municipality, outlines the governorate’s development plan, which includes services on internal roads, waterfront developments, and public beach enhancements. The focus on green spaces and environmental sustainability is evident in the completion and development of several public parks and gardens.

The electricity sector, led by Nama Electricity Distribution Company, has implemented key projects to enhance the electrical network, connecting Mahut and Duqm to the national grid. 

Nama Water Services Company’s initiatives, like the water transfer project from Duqm to Haima, aim to improve water accessibility and storage.

Healthcare in Al Wusta is also advancing, as evidenced by the recent foundation stone laying for the Mahout Hospital and enhancements in existing medical facilities. 

Dr Ibrahim bin Hilal al Mahrouqi, Director General of the General Directorate of Health Services, highlighted the expansion of services and facilities to meet growing healthcare needs.

Overall, Al Wusta governorate’s multifaceted development projects reflect Oman’s commitment to sustainable growth and improved quality of life for its citizens and residents.