New Tourism Development Pacts in Wadi Al Shab, Nakhal, and Khasab: What It Means for Investment Opportunities in Oman
Muscat: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) has signed three usufruct contracts worth RO56 million to develop two integrated tourism complexes in the Wilayats of Khasab and Nakhal, as well as to enhance Wadi Shab in the Wilayat of Sur.
In line with the Sultanate of Oman’s tourism development plan, His Excellency Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, formalized agreements for two integrated tourism complexes—Sindan-Pearl of Khasab in Khasab and Hamyan Village in Nakhal—alongside the development of Wadi Shab in the Wilayat of Sur.
The first contract, signed with the CEO of Omran Group, focuses on developing Wadi Shab in Tiwi, Sur, South Al Sharqiyah Governorate, into a year-round integrated tourist destination. The project aims to attract both domestic and international tourists by offering a blend of adventure, recreation, and environmental sustainability.
Omran’s implementation plan for Wadi Shab includes an adventure park with facilities like a zip line, mountain climbing trails, suspension bridges, walking paths, swimming areas for children and adults, restaurants, and cafes. Wadi Shab is notable for its biodiversity, geological formations, clear waters, caves, and waterfalls, making it an ideal spot for nature and adventure enthusiasts.
The second contract was signed with Khasab Development and Investment Company to establish the Sandan-Pearl of Khasab integrated tourism complex on a government tourism land spanning 43,658 sqm. Hilal bin Nasser bin Hamad Al Harthy, Managing Director of the company, signed the agreement.
Located near the sea and key tourist sites in Khasab, such as Khasab Fort and Atana Musandam Hotel, the project will feature a four-star hotel with 200 rooms, alongside 450 residential units available for ownership by Omanis and other nationalities. Additional amenities include a heritage-themed market, shops, various restaurants, and recreational and service facilities.
The third usufruct contract was signed with Hamyan Investment and Project Development Company for the Hamyan Village integrated tourism complex situated in the Halban area of Nakhal, South Al Batinah Governorate, on government land covering 201,031 sqm. Saud bin Hamad bin Issa Al Taie, Managing Director, represented the company.
This development will incorporate a four-star hotel with 156 rooms and 535 residential units, including apartments and villas available for ownership to Omanis and other nationalities. The project will also include a market, multiple restaurants, a water park, and various recreational and service facilities.
These initiatives are expected to significantly boost tourism infrastructure and services across Oman’s diverse regions, aligning with the country’s strategic vision for sustainable tourism growth.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism’s RO56 million investment in integrated tourism complexes across Khasab, Nakhal, and Wadi Shab signals a bold expansion in Oman’s tourism infrastructure, blending adventure, culture, and sustainability. For businesses, this creates significant opportunities in hospitality, retail, and recreation, while smart investors should consider the rising demand for quality tourism services and residential ownership within these emerging hotspots. However, careful attention to environmental impact and sustainable development will be critical to ensuring long-term success in this sector.