RO 31 Million Tourism Projects in Jabal Shams: What This Means for Investors and Business Growth in Oman
AL HAMRA: Jabal Shams, located in the Wilayat of Al Hamra, is currently the focus of an extensive development initiative involving several integrated projects valued at over RO 31 million. These projects, centered on urban development and infrastructure enhancement, are part of the Al Dakhiliyah Governorate’s strategic plan to boost tourism and investment potential in the region.
Shaikh Hilal bin Said Al Hajri, Governor of Al Dakhiliyah, announced that the first phase of the Jabal Shams development is underway with an investment of RO 2.93 million and has reached 5 percent completion. This phase covers 145,000 square meters, contributing to the project’s total estimated cost of approximately RO 11 million.
The initial phase focuses on land preparation and the installation of essential utility networks. The subsequent phase will introduce high-quality tourism and recreational amenities, including a glass walkway, mountain slide, open-air theatre, and cultural park. These enhancements are designed to elevate Jabal Shams’ appeal and competitiveness among mountain tourist destinations in Oman.
The project is projected to generate annual revenues exceeding RO 1.26 million and create 309 direct jobs. Additionally, it is expected to offer 32 investment opportunities for entrepreneurs.
The completion of the Jabal Shams road project marks a critical element of the broader waterfront development plan. Construction began in early January with a budget of RO 20.2 million and is progressing according to schedule under the supervision of the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, aligning with national efforts to upgrade Oman’s road infrastructure.
As part of this initiative, 172 lighting poles have been installed along the 10-kilometer road access to Jabal Shams, enhancing safety and infrastructure. The road itself stretches for 32 kilometers, serving the Jabal Shams area as well as adjacent villages, thereby improving geographic connectivity, road safety, and mobility for both residents and visitors.
Governor Al Hajri also highlighted the inclusion of nine rest areas distributed along the route, with plans underway to establish a fuel station to meet the needs of travelers and local inhabitants. These amenities aim to improve comfort, reduce travel times, and facilitate access to key sites.
Together, the waterfront and road projects form a comprehensive development package aligned with national directives to support local content. This approach empowers small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and expands opportunities for national companies to participate in related works and services, strengthening economic sustainability and enhancing the contribution of these projects to the local economy.
The ongoing developments at Jabal Shams are part of a larger wave of progress in the Wilayat of Al Hamra, where the value of current projects in urban development, roads, and lighting surpasses RO 11.5 million, demonstrating a strong commitment to balanced and sustainable growth in the governorate.
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The integrated development projects at Jabal Shams, with investments exceeding RO 31 million, signal a bold move to position Al Hamra as a premier mountain tourism destination. For businesses, this creates significant opportunities in tourism, hospitality, and SME engagement, while smart investors should consider the emerging market potential driven by infrastructure enhancements and enhanced accessibility. However, the success of these initiatives hinges on continuous support for local enterprises and sustainable management to maintain long-term economic growth.
