Tourism Investment in Duqm Soars to RO 853m: What This Means for Business Opportunities in Oman

• By Oman Market
• July 26, 2025July 26, 2025
• Duqm investment tourism
• With 0 comments

AL DUQM: Tourism investment in the Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD) has surpassed RO 853 million by the end of 2023, underscoring the region’s rising status as a premier tourist destination.

The area currently features 21 hotels, 10 hotel apartment complexes, and a large-scale multi-use tourism development encompassing hotels, villas, and hotel apartments. This significant growth in investment is driven by increasing demand for tourism services, a growing number of visitors, and a supportive business environment facilitated by SEZAD and the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones.

Official data reveals that 16 tourism projects were completed by the end of last year, with 11 more under construction and five additional projects in the planning stages.

Eng. Ahmed bin Ali Akaak, CEO of SEZAD, emphasized Duqm’s strategic location along the Arabian Sea, its moderate year-round climate, and extensive amenities as key factors fueling tourism interest. Notable attractions include pristine beaches, the Rock Garden, Duqm Beach Park, and a public park in the Sai Commercial District, which has quickly become a new landmark. Nearby destinations such as Bar Al Hikman further enhance the area’s appeal.

Akaak highlighted ongoing efforts by SEZAD, in partnership with the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones, to organize sporting, economic, and tourism events aimed at boosting investment in the sector. Central to Duqm’s development is its strategic plan for 2025–2030, which prioritizes tourism growth. The plan’s two main themes focus on improving quality of life through urban and social development and positioning Duqm as a distinct tourism destination by diversifying and enhancing visitor experiences.

One flagship promotional initiative, the “Pass by” campaign, has successfully attracted travelers en route to and from Dhofar. This year, the campaign will expand with a full calendar of activities designed to meet tourist expectations.

Akaak also underscored Duqm’s valuable coastal assets, including attractive beaches at Nafun and Ras Madrakah. SEZAD is encouraging greater private sector involvement to unlock the region’s full tourism potential and to develop new projects that capitalize on Duqm’s natural resources. — ONA

Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market

The surge in tourism investment of over RO 853 million in SEZAD, driven by Duqm’s strategic location and rich natural assets, positions Duqm as a formidable emerging tourism hub in Oman. For businesses and investors, this growth signals significant opportunities in hospitality, leisure, and related services, supported by strong government backing and infrastructure development. Smart investors should capitalize on Duqm’s expanding visitor base and ongoing promotional initiatives while anticipating risks related to project execution and market competition as the sector develops rapidly.