Omran Unveils RO3 Billion Tourism Projects: Key Opportunities for Investors and Entrepreneurs in Oman
Muscat – As part of its 20th anniversary celebrations under the patronage of Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism (MHT), Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) announced on Monday a series of strategic investment partnerships with both local and international institutions.
Hashil Obaid al Mahrouqi, CEO of OMRAN Group, emphasized the Group’s commitment to expanding its network of partnerships, especially with entities specializing in tourism investment and urban development. The projects, with a total investment of RO3 billion, aim to enhance tourism experiences at key sites including Majlis al Jinn, Ras Al Shajar Cave, Al Hoota caves, the Four Seasons project in Bandar al Rowdha, Opera District Development, the second phase of Madinat al Irfan, and an agro-tourism venture in Salalah featuring the planting of 1,000 coconut and five varieties of papaya trees.
The Minister of Heritage and Tourism noted that these developments will transform Oman’s tourism sector due to their alignment with other initiatives managed by the ministry.
Azzan Qassim al Busaidi, Chairman of OMRAN Group, reaffirmed the Group’s dedication to shaping the future of tourism in Oman. He underscored the importance of collaboration with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and other governmental bodies to elevate Oman’s position in global tourism. He also highlighted OMRAN’s active role in supporting Oman Vision 2040 and the National Tourism Strategy.
Abdulsalam Mohammed al Murshidi, President of the Oman Investment Authority, described the occasion as a significant milestone demonstrating the impact of the Authority’s economic diversification efforts via OMRAN Group. He praised the launch of strategic tourism investments as pivotal to generating broad economic and social benefits and expressed commitment to further strengthen these efforts in future planning.
Integrated Tourism Complexes
Notable announcements included an agreement with VA Group to develop a mixed-use project at Sultan Qaboos Port waterfront. Under the Yiti Integrated Tourism Development, three new partnerships were unveiled: two mixed-use projects with VA Group and Aurelian Group, and a luxury Nobu-branded resort with Enevória Development. Additionally, Oman Agriculture Development Company will collaborate to develop Janaen Salalah, the Sultanate’s first integrated agri-tourism project.
The event showcased design models for several projects including Madinat Al Irfan, Sultan Qaboos Port Waterfront, the upcoming Four Seasons Resort, and the Opera District development.
Also revealed was the design model for the upcoming Club Med Resort in Musandam—the brand’s first resort in Oman and the wider region. Further updates were provided on Santani Jabal Shams Resort, focused on luxury wellness and health tourism, and Alie Nivas Musandam Resort, which combines premium hospitality with natural surroundings. These developments will broaden OMRAN Group’s hospitality portfolio and diversify Oman’s accommodation options.
The ceremony highlighted projects aimed at enriching visitor experiences such as Wadi Shab, known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities; Ras Al Shajar Nature Reserve, a model of sustainable eco-tourism; Majlis Al Jinn Cave, one of the world’s largest and most unique caves; Al Hoota Cave, offering both educational and leisure experiences; and Hayl Al Diyar, which integrates cultural and recreational elements. Together, these initiatives strengthen Oman’s position as a premier destination for nature and adventure tourism.
OMRAN Group also revealed new strategic partnerships including the acquisition of a stake in UnderTheDoormat, supporting alternative accommodation and expanding digital marketing; a stake in the digital travel platform Godoba, advancing innovation in tourism’s digital transformation; and an agreement with Handicrafts House – Dar Al Herfya to establish a crafts and heritage center in Muttrah.
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The OMRAN Group’s RO3 billion strategic investment partnerships signal a transformational phase for Oman’s tourism sector, blending luxury, heritage, and eco-tourism to diversify the economy in line with Oman Vision 2040. Businesses should seize opportunities in hospitality, agri-tourism, and digital travel platforms, while investors must consider the long-term growth potential in integrated tourism complexes and sustainable tourism ventures that position Oman as a high-value global destination.
