Duqm – Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD) has enhanced its status on Oman’s summer tourism map by inaugurating new hotel facilities and increasing investments through Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ).

This year, three new hotels have opened in Duqm, taking the total number to 15 and available rooms exceeding 2,460.  

Ahmed bin Ali Akaak, Acting CEO of SEZAD, noted that Duqm’s location, midway between Muscat and Salalah, makes it a vital stop for travellers. “Visitors can take a break at one of the hotels, resorts or serviced apartments available in Duqm, which cater to the needs of tourists and families,” Akaak stated.

The new hotels include Duqm Express Hotel, Al Madina Express Hotel Duqm and Royal Plaza Hotel Duqm. Last year saw the opening of Grand Orchid Hotel Apartments and Duqm Plaza Hotel. “These hotels represent a significant addition to the hospitality sector in Duqm,” Akaak added.

Duqm offers a variety of accommodation options, including 4-star hotels like the Crowne Plaza Duqm and Park Inn Resort Duqm, both located on Duqm Beach. 

There are also 3-star hotels – Al Madina Hotel and Asian Hotel – as well as serviced apartments like the Ocean Hotel Apartments, Royal Land Suites, Discovery Hotel Apartments, Dar al Jawhara, Dar al Dhiyafa and Duqm Suites. Youth hostels and heritage camps, such as Azbat al Maha and Duqm Camp, provide additional choices.

With mild weather year-round, including summer temperatures ranging from 25 to 32°C, Duqm is an appealing destination. Its location on the Arabian Sea, with access to the Indian Ocean and sandy beaches, attracts tourists for beach sports.

Duqm’s tourist attractions include the Rock Garden in the heart of the wilayat and the Arabian Oryx Sanctuary, less than a two-hour drive away. Travel agencies organise trips to these sites, offering various activities tailored to tourists’ preferences.

Akaak highlighted the fact that the rise in tourism investments and infrastructure improvements within SEZAD have significantly increased tourist arrivals. This growth is further supported by daily direct flights from Muscat. SEZAD is implementing projects to enhance tourism services, including main and secondary roads, electricity and water services, and drainage systems. 

Additionally, OPAZ plans to construct a coastal road serving the tourist area up to the multi-purpose fishing port and redevelop the zone according to modern urban planning standards.