13 integrated tourism complex projects currently under development, 12 more in pipeline

Muscat – Oman is set to invest RO3bn (US$7.8bn) in tourism with the aim of increasing the sector’s contribution to the  GDP to 3.5% by 2030, according to H E Salim bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism.

Speaking at a Majlis A’Shura session on Monday, H E Mahrouqi highlighted tourism sector’s growing economic role, noting that its direct contribution to the national economy rose from RO873mn in 2019 to RO1bn in 2023. Total tourism production increased from RO1.8bn to RO2bn in the same period, while domestic tourism saw an upsurge, with local visits rising from 10mn in 2019 to 13mn in 2023, and local spend growing from RO732mn to RO830mn.

The minister stated that integrated tourism complexes play a key role in attracting foreign investments. “Thirteen projects are currently under development, with another 12 in the pipeline,” he said, adding that a tourism economic cluster in Dakhliyah is the model Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) aims to replicate in other regions.

Several key tourism sites are undergoing development and rehabilitation, including Jabal Abyad, Wakan Village, Wadi Shab, Bandar al Khairan and Ras al Hadd. Efforts are also underway to preserve world heritage sites such as Qalhat, Bat and the archaeological site of Dibba. Proposals have been submitted to include Bisya and Salut in Unesco’s World Heritage List.

As part of a broader cultural strategy, MHT is developing museums, including the Maritime History Museum in Sur and relocating the Natural History Museum to Oman Botanic Garden. The 5,400sqkm Al Hajar Geological Park, spanning three governorates, is also expected to become a major eco-tourism attraction.

On the much-anticipated GCC Unified Visa, the minister acknowledged ongoing discussions but said implementation has been delayed due to security concerns and differing perspectives among GCC nations, particularly regarding travellers from politically unstable regions.

In Dhofar, nearly RO800,000 has been allocated to enhance tourism facilities with the goal of positioning the governorate as a year-round destination.

Addressing development in Masirah Island, H E Mahrouqi said, “Land is available for investment, and we have welcomed dozens of investors from Russia, Egypt and the GCC states. However, we need to develop the airport and other facilities to attract further investments, and necessary exemptions will be provided. A special office will be set up to promote Masirah.”

The minister also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to preserving Oman’s architectural heritage, stating that 370 monuments have been restored to date. A periodic maintenance programme is in place, prioritised based on financial resources, while private partnerships are being explored to enhance investment potential.