Muscat – The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) has signed an agreement with Al Mursal Trading and Investment to develop the Malkai integrated tourism complex spread over 800,000sqm in Barka, South Batinah.

The project will combine hospitality, leisure and residential facilities within an agricultural setting designed to reflect the area’s geographical and cultural character.

The agreement was signed by H E Sayyid Ibrahim bin Said Al Busaidi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, on behalf of the ministry, and Kairavi Pankaj Khimji on behalf of Al Mursal Trading and Investment.

To be developed in phases, Malkai will include a luxury resort with 51 accommodation units, ranging from individual rooms to three-bedroom suites. Facilities will include a gym, spa and outdoor lounge areas.

The development will also feature 51 residential villas available for freehold ownership, expanding its tourism and residential offerings.

Inspired by traditional Omani walled gardens, the project will be set amid historic agricultural land on the coastal plains, with palm groves and water pools forming part of the landscape.

According to the ministry, the development aims to offer visitors a luxury experience centred on privacy, tranquility and personalised services, while providing an immersive introduction to an Omani lifestyle.

The project is expected to attract foreign investment, support the growth of upscale and wellness tourism, and generate direct and indirect employment opportunities. It is also intended to support local content and increase tourism’s contribution to gross domestic product, in line with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040.