Oman investigates development of theme parks and waterparks

Buoyed by the increase in tourists flocking to the country, Omran, the company set up by the Government of Oman to complete major projects and to manage assets and investments in tourism, has announced that 12 new projects are under a feasibility study.

Speaking at the recent Oman Future Buildings conference, Omran Chief Executive Wael bin Ahmed Al Lawati, said that the 12 projects would cover different fields of interest, such as the development of forts and castles, theme parks, water parks, and eco-friendly resorts.

Stressing that Omran's focus is aligned with creating tourism opportunities across Oman, Wael stated "many world-class luxury hotel brands, and hotels across the spectrum of star ratings, exist throughout Oman, with a total capacity of 7,646 open rooms, while 3,000 new hotel rooms are expected to be added by the end of 2014."

"Integrated rest areas on highways are being planned; they will offer a range of facilities such as car services, toilets, food outlets, a kids' area and prayer facilities."

On the investment front, the Wael stated "phase one of Duqm Frontier Town was completed in Q2 2012 and handed over to Oman Dry Dock Company, while phase two is currently in the master planning stage and a detailed feasibility study is being conducted."

Pitching Salalah as an attractive destination, Wael continued "as part of the Salalah Beach Project by Muriya, the Juwiera Boutique Hotel is open, and the Rotana Hotel will open today for tourists.

"The marina construction is also complete. Al Baleed resort, coming up adjacent to Al Baleed World Heritage archaeological site - UNESCO - in Salalah, features 106 chalets, while the main hotel in the resort will have 30 guest rooms."

The Al Baleed resort is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2015.

Commenting on the Zaree cultural heritage project, Wael added "Zaree offers tourists and visitors a (unique) look into Omani life in Khasab; (this feature) is often missed on the more established tours of the area, serving customers with henna designs, traditional clothing and Omani cuisine at the high-footfall Khasab Port.

"The program's members were recognised with a number of local and international awards and acknowledgements for their efforts in creating Zaree."

Wael also talked about Omran's single assets, the Oman convention and exhibition centre, and the Yiti master plan, saying a theme park as part of the Yiti master plan is still awaiting approval.

The Sultanate's tourism sector witnessed a growth of 10% in 2013, compared to 2012 with 2.1 million tourists visiting Oman last year.

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