Al Duqm Tourism Cluster Seeks Global Investment: How It Can Shape Oman’s Hospitality Landscape
MUSCAT, Nov 21 — A substantial tourism cluster is being developed within the Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD), aimed at attracting top international developers, prestigious hospitality brands, and leading retail and fashion labels. This initiative aspires to establish Duqm as a premier lifestyle destination in the broader Middle East.
Covering a beachfront expanse of approximately 35 km², the proposed tourism zone will include a diverse array of luxury hotels, residential options, mixed-use districts, marinas, retail spaces, adventure attractions, and recreational facilities— all designed to enhance Al Duqm’s industrial character.
Haus of Stein, a creative consultancy and production studio based in the UK, plays a key role in attracting these premium brands to the area. CEO Lee Paul Stone remarked, “We are actively engaging with international investment funds, high-net-worth individuals, family offices, regional and global developers, hospitality giants, and luxury fashion brands, among others.”
During the recent Duqm Economic Forum, Stone expressed optimism regarding early investor interest. “We have received expressions of interest from major international hospitality groups for multiple venues, one of the largest marina operators, and various capital sources from around the world. We are currently outlining the conditions for top-tier investors and globally recognized brands to participate in the project, along with the potential sequencing of investments to ensure the long-term viability of the master plan,” he explained.
Stone emphasized that the project’s vision distinguishes it from previous initiatives. “The rugged yet beautiful topography, shaped by the Sasaki design team, embraces nature and celebrates Al Duqm’s rich history. A beach promenade has been conceived in a distinctly Omani style, offering rare access to the waterfront. Few sites offer such extensive existing infrastructure, and further development is already in progress.”
He assured potential investors that numerous assets within the scheme can be operational in the short to medium term. While investment incentives are documented elsewhere, they collectively highlight a strong commitment to support and encourage investment.
The master plan encompasses a wide range of asset types, presenting residents and visitors with unique lifestyle experiences in Al Duqm. Features include a waterfront downtown area, a super-yacht marina, a variety of hospitality venues, culturally significant and international retail brands, and a comprehensive array of residential options and commercial ventures that cater to business, leisure, entertainment, and sports.
The redesign of the seafront introduces various mixed-use zones with expansive pedestrian boulevards. Retail, commercial, residential, and hospitality areas are interconnected, creating what Stone described as “potentially lucrative corridors of activity” while ensuring clear public access to the waterfront.
The super-yacht marina is highlighted as a strategically essential component of the project. Stone stated, “Al Duqm is ideally positioned to attract yacht owners traveling from the Red Sea to various Gulf destinations, making the super-yacht marina a pivotal aspect of our initiative.”
F&M Middle East serves as the Project Management and Infrastructure Consultant, collaborating with various international and local partners, with Sasaki as the Lead Master Planner.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
The ambitious Tourism Cluster within Duqm’s Special Economic Zone signals a transformative opportunity for businesses in Oman to tap into a burgeoning lifestyle destination. Investors should carefully assess the potential of strategically emerging sectors, particularly in hospitality and luxury retail, while remaining cognizant of the risks associated with market saturation and investor competition. As development progresses, entrepreneurs must harness the momentum of early-stage interest to position themselves advantageously and capitalize on the anticipated influx of international brands and capital.
