Muscat – Invest Oman has unveiled three tourism projects within Oman Botanic Garden (OBG) as investment opportunities, targeting eco-tourism, adventure travel and wildlife conservation.

The proposed developments – a wellness retreat, a geo-adventure park and a wildlife centre – are located in different zones of the garden in Al Khoudh, Seeb. Together, these represent a combined capital outlay of more than RO20mn and are positioned to diversify Muscat’s tourism offering.

RO11.5mn wellness retreat

Planned for the Eastern Conservation Zone, the wellness retreat and eco-lodge project centres on 50 eco-lodges spread across 662,610sqm, with less than 5% built-up area to preserve the natural setting. Each lodge will feature 300sqm of built-up space within a 1,500sqm plot, including private gardens and plunge pools.

The concept combines mountain views with wellness facilities such as hydrotherapy spas, yoga pavilions and a holistic health centre offering nutrition and detox programmes. Elevated boardwalks, nature trails and organic gardens are designed to integrate guests into the surrounding biodiversity.

The project’s proximity to Muscat International Airport – about 40 minutes away – boosts its commercial appeal. Financial projections indicate an internal rate of return of 15.82% on total investment and 21.66% on equity.

RO3.34mn geo-adventure park

The geo-adventure park, proposed in Zone E across 114,651sqm, aims to merge geological education with outdoor recreation. Designed as an eco-friendly structure, it will include visitor facilities, geo-education zones and adventure areas.

Planned activities range from hiking, ziplining and rock climbing to fossil discovery zones and geological simulation exhibits. A palaeontology lab, interactive displays and outdoor classrooms will target school groups and researchers.

Developers say the integration with the botanic garden’s biodiversity, combined with Oman’s geological diversity, positions the project as a specialised attraction in the region. The park is intended to serve families, students and adventure tourists.

RO5.57mn wildlife conservation and exhibition centre

The wildlife centre, proposed in Zone H over 621,095sqm, will focus on native species of the Arabian peninsula. About 190 animals are planned, including Arabian oryx, Arabian tahr, Arabian leopard and marine turtles.

Facilities will include wildlife enclosures covering 68,100sqm, veterinary and quarantine units, research and educational buildings, and dedicated trails and viewing decks designed to minimise environmental impact.

Beyond wildlife viewing, the centre is designed as a research hub and community education resource, with classrooms, breeding laboratories, a veterinary facility and purpose-built habitat enclosures recreating Oman’s distinct ecosystems – from desert plains to coastal zones.

The centre will focus on conservation, breeding programmes and public education, with interactive exhibits and structured school programmes.

Invest Oman said the three projects are structured to attract private sector participation while supporting sustainable tourism and environmental protection within the garden.