Muscat – The hospitality scene in Oman is about to get a major boost with the official signing of the Club Med Musandam project, marking the debut of the first Club Med Resort in the Middle East.

This exclusive resort will come up following a collaboration among Omran Group, Club Med, and Royal Court Affairs.

A deal to this effect was signed on Thursday in Muscat, which was attended by H E Salem Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism; Nasr Hamoud al Kindi, Secretary General of the Royal Court Affairs; Ibrahim Said al Busaidi, Governor of Musandam; Abdulsalam Mohammed al Murshidi, President of Oman Investment Authority; H E Véronique Aulagnon, Ambassador of France in Oman; H E Azzan Qassim al Busaidi, Undersecretary for Tourism in the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and Chairman of Omran; Dr Hashil Obaid al Mahruqi, CEO of Omran Group, and Henri Giscard d’Estaing, CEO of Club Med.

The agreement underscores Omran’s commitment to boosting Oman’s economy and promoting tourism through sustainable projects.

Located on the Musandam Peninsula, Club Med Musandam site is just a 5-minute boat ride from Khasab city.

The resort is expected to add another 300 rooms to Oman’s hospitality portfolio, with a strong flair of the Omani culture as manifested in its interior, entertainment and even food and beverages.

“In light of our collaboration with Club Med, Oman’s tourism sector is ushering in exciting new opportunities,” remarked Hashil al Mahrouqi.

“Oman’s unparalleled natural beauty, rich traditions, and genuine hospitality are treasures we’re eager to share with the world. This partnership reflects our dedication to attracting top-tier hospitality operators who share our common vision to enrich tourism experiences and innovate with diverse tourism products. By leveraging Musandam’s stunning natural assets, we’re committed to enhancing the tourism sector, showcasing Oman’s beauty, peace, and warm hospitality on a global scale.”

The Club Med brand has been offering unique holiday experiences around the world since 1950, and choosing Musandam for their first resort in the Middle East speaks volumes of how unique Oman’s tourism potential.

“The history and success of Club Med lies on its pioneer approach, strongly contributing to the overall development of regions and areas where it has been implementing. The project of Club Med Musandam is a key milestone as it is our first presence in the Middle East,” said Giscard d’Estaing.

To be built with an investment exceeding US$100mn, Club Med Musandam will be another milestone that reflects Omran’s endeavours to expand its rich portfolio of hospitality assets and tourism destinations and generate in-country value by enhancing job creation and sustainable growth.

Over 1,000 direct and indirect job opportunities are expected to be created during the project’s execution phases.

The Omran Group seeks to implement the principles of sustainability and enhance ICV through strategic initiatives and partnerships as well as empower national competencies and SMEs. It believes that a collaborative approach such as this plays an effective role in achieving national development and realizing its goals in line with the National Tourism Strategy and Oman Vision 2040.

Known for its dramatic creeks, crystal-clear waters, and rugged mountain landscapes, Musandam is one of the most favourable destinations for tourism in Oman. It offers a wealth of experiences for tourists seeking a mindful escape, including exploring the historic fort of Khasab, leading a cruise along the breathtaking khor ash Sham, admiring the ancient rock art of Jebel Harim, or experiencing the traditional lifestyle of Kumzar.