Latest news with #HESalimbinMohammedalMahrouqi
Muscat Daily
3 days ago
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Unified governance framework for tourism in Oman soon
Muscat – Oman will implement an integrated governance framework for its heritage and tourism sectors by the end of 2025 aiming to align the planning and development efforts of ministries and governorates under a single system. The decision was announced following a four-day national workshop, titled 'Addressing the Challenges of Governance of Heritage and Tourism Development Management with Governorates', held from May 26 to 29. The event was organised by Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) in cooperation with Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Unit. The proposed framework will focus on institutional coordination, clarifying roles and responsibilities, and preparing development plans at the governorate level. It also seeks to build consensus on land allocation for heritage and tourism projects while encouraging private sector and civil society involvement. Speaking at the conclusion of the workshop, H E Salim bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, said the ministry is halfway towards meeting its targets, but the growing role of governorates demands enhanced coordination. 'The governorates have become integrated tourist destinations in their own right due to their heritage and tourism assets,' he stated. He called for a unified environment that supports joint efforts between government entities, particularly at the municipal level. H E Mahrouqi identified key challenges hindering sectoral development, including limited funding, inadequate infrastructure, centralised administrative processes and restricted local authority. He stressed the need to reduce bureaucracy and promote decentralisation. 'The ministry is committed to maintaining open channels of communication with governorates and municipal councils,' he added. 'Successes in the sector must be seen as collective achievements, not those of a single institution.' Participants discussed practical strategies to overcome governance obstacles and to support the goals of Oman Vision 2040. These include raising tourism's share of GDP to 5.3%, attracting RO12bn in investments, improving Oman's ranking to within top 40 in the World Economic Forum's Travel and Tourism Development Index, and achieving 80% satisfaction rate among tourists. Key discussion points included governance mechanisms, infrastructure needs, innovation in projects, sustainable development, and ensuring local economic benefits. Halima bint Rashid al Zaria, Chairperson of Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development ASMED urges stronger centre-governorate coordination for tourism growth Muscat – Halima bint Rashid al Zaria, Chairperson of Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (ASMED), has called for closer coordination between central authorities and governorates to support tourism and heritage development across the sultanate. Speaking at a workshop organised by Ministry of Heritage and Tourism titled 'Addressing the Challenges of Governance of Heritage and Tourism Development Management with Governorates', Halima stressed the need for joint planning and a unified vision. 'Our work must be based on coordinated plans, not on emergency reactions,' she said, underlining the importance of strategic alignment between the central government and regional administrations. Halima noted that the effectiveness of ASMED's support depends on the clarity of development plans at the governorate level. 'The more governorates have a clear plan for initiatives and events, the more effective and prepared we can be as an institution.' She said a key challenge is the lack of shared annual planning among government entities. 'We submit our annual plan to the Council of Ministers early, and so do the governors, but these plans are rarely shared between us. Exchanging and harmonising plans at the beginning of each year will significantly accelerate achievement and improve responsiveness to local needs.'
Muscat Daily
25-05-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
RO56mn for Wadi Shab development, ITCs in Nakhal and Khasab
Muscat – Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has signed three usufruct agreements valued at RO56mn to develop two integrated tourism complexes (ITCs) and transform Wadi Shab into a year-round destination for nature and adventure tourism. This is in line with efforts to diversify the economy and boost the tourism sector. The projects are located in three governorates. The agreements were signed by H E Salim bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, at a ceremony on Sunday. The first agreement, signed with Omran Group worth RO2mn, is for development of Wadi Shab in Tiwi, wilayat of Sur in South Sharqiyah. The site will be transformed into an eco-tourism destination, featuring a zip line, mountain trails, suspension bridges, swimming areas and dining facilities. 'Wadi Shab is a site of exceptional natural beauty and biodiversity, known for its clear waters, caves and waterfalls,' H E Mahrouqi said. 'This project will promote environmental sustainability while offering unique recreational experiences.' The second agreement is for development of the Sandan – Pearl of Khasab tourism complex in Musandam. Built on a 43,658sqm site near Khasab Fort and Atana Musandam Hotel, it will include a 200-room four-star hotel, 450 residential units for Omanis and foreign nationals, a traditional market, shops, restaurants and leisure facilities. The third agreement is for the Halban Gardens complex in wilayat of Nakhal in South Batinah. Spread over 201,031sqm, the project will feature a four-star hotel with 156 rooms, 535 residential units including villas and apartments, a market, water park, restaurants and recreational amenities. In a statement, the ministry said the agreements reflect the government's strategy to promote sustainable tourism and attract investment to key regions. The projects support Oman Vision 2040 objectives to position tourism as a key non-oil economic sector while preserving the country's natural and cultural heritage.
Muscat Daily
18-05-2025
- Muscat Daily
Manah hosts global museum conference to boost Oman tourism
Manah – The Oman Across Ages Museum, in collaboration with the National Records and Archives Authority (NRAA) and the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, inaugurated the international conference 'Museums and Their Role in Tourism Development' on Sunday at its premises in Manah, Dakhliyah. Held under the patronage of H E Salim bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, the three-day conference has brought together over 42 researchers, academics, and experts from 21 countries. The event aims to highlight the role of museums in driving tourism, preserving cultural identity, and fostering investment in the cultural economy. It also seeks to explore how academic partnerships and digital technologies can enhance the visitor experience and position museums as vibrant educational and cultural hubs. Dr Hamad bin Mohammed al Dhuyani, Chairman of NRAA, said the conference aims to establish strategic partnerships between public and private institutions in Oman's museum sector. 'This event promotes international collaboration through peer-reviewed scientific papers and paves the way for future conferences that will highlight integrated work across the cultural, scientific, and intellectual domains,' he said. An exhibition showcasing the role of Omani museum institutions is also being held alongside the conference. Eng Al Yaqzan bin Abdullah al Harthy, Director General of the Oman Across Ages Museum, noted that museums today are key players in sustainable development. 'They serve as mirrors of national identity, promote intercultural dialogue, and contribute significantly to the creative economy by making history an immersive and interactive experience,' he said. The conference features six specialised workshops covering critical topics, including digital technologies, museum management, community engagement, and the development of cultural content. These sessions aim to facilitate both intellectual exchange and practical learning. The agenda addresses several key themes, including the role of museums in tourism, the impact of archaeological missions, legislation protecting national heritage, and the involvement of international organisations. Discussions will also focus on how museums contribute to economic growth, resource management, tourism promotion, and sustainable investment. Additionally, the conference will explore the cultural and educational functions of museums, their collaboration with educational institutions and support for scientific research.
Muscat Daily
12-05-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
RO44mn deals to boost eco-tourism in Oman's nature reserves
Muscat – Environment Authority (EA) has signed nine agreements worth RO44mn to develop and manage seven nature reserves across Oman as part of a push to promote sustainable tourism and protect the sultanate's natural heritage. The deals include four contracts with the government-owned Omran Group to operate and manage Ras al Shajar Nature Reserve, the Turtle Reserve in South Sharqiyah, Arabian Oryx Sanctuary and the Wetland Nature Reserve in Al Wusta. Two other agreements cover development of the Laja Shlion site in Jabal Samhan Nature Reserve and the Itlalat Hayur area in the wilayat of Mirbat. The authority also signed two investment contracts for an eco-tourism resort and a stargazing facility called the Stars Park Project in Al Hajar Al Gharbi Starlight Nature Reserve. The second is for development of the Khor al Mughsail Nature Reserve in Dhofar. The agreements were signed during an official ceremony held under the patronage of H E Salim bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism. Officials said the projects aim to support tourism, protect ecosystems and promote sustainable development, while ensuring the long-term preservation of Oman's natural sites. Dr Abdullah bin Ali al Amri, Chairman of EA, said the projects will include eco-tourism resorts, star parks, eco-lodges, camps, visitor centres, safaris, trails and turtle ponds. 'This investment in eco-tourism aims to protect and preserve the natural heritage in nature reserves and ensure sustainability for future generations,' he said. He added that the authority also aims to raise awareness among visitors, promote conservation education and encourage local communities to participate in eco-tourism. 'It also seeks to diversify sources of income, improve infrastructure and enhance the national tourism product,' he added. Sulaiman bin Nasser al Akhzami, Director General of Nature Conservation at EA, said the seven reserves cover approximately 5,660sqkm. These include the Al Hajar al Gharbi Starlight Reserve in Dakhliyah, Khor al Mughsail in Dhofar, the Laja Shlion site in Jabal Samhan, Ras al Shajar in Quriyat, Wetlands Reserve in Al Wusta, Turtle Reserve in South Sharqiyah and Arabian Oryx Reserve in Al Wusta. Akhzami added that the investment projects were selected based on specific environmental and operational standards, including environmental impact assessments, sustainable tourism practices and the use of eco-friendly materials. Investors are also required to demonstrate financial capability and a clear project timeline. He noted that nature reserves play a vital role in protecting biodiversity and endangered species, adding, 'Financing their management and maintenance requires significant resources, making environmental investment a strategic option aligned with Oman Vision 2040's priorities.' Oman currently has 31 officially declared nature reserves spread across various governorates.
Muscat Daily
26-04-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Oman to showcase tourism potential at ATM Dubai
Muscat – Oman will participate in the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, which opens on Monday in Dubai, through an official delegation led by H E Salim bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism. The Omani delegation will include representatives from 37 tourism companies, institutions, and hotels, reflecting the sultanate's efforts to strengthen its presence in the global travel and tourism sector. ATM 2025 is expected to gather leading hospitality brands, tourism sector influencers and emerging destinations, showcasing the latest trends shaping the luxury travel industry. The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism's (MHT's) participation is part of its promotional plan for the year to enhance Oman's profile as a tourist destination and to build strategic partnerships that support the sector's development. H E Azzan bin Qasim al Busaidi, Undersecretary for Tourism in the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, said the event provides a vital platform for Omani companies to meet international partners and explore new partnership opportunities. He added that Oman's participation would focus on adopting modern global trends, especially in luxury, adventure, and sustainable tourism, to develop competitive tourism products and services. H E Busaidi noted that Oman's tourism sector has recorded significant growth in recent years, supported by increased investments in infrastructure, hotel facilities and organisation of cultural and natural heritage events. He said participation in ATM 2025 reflects Oman's commitment to enhancing competitiveness, attracting quality investments, and achieving the goals outlined in Oman Vision 2040. The event is expected to feature over 2,800 exhibitors from 161 countries and attract more than 55,000 visitors. It will offer opportunities for business deals and updates on the latest developments in the tourism sector. Key discussion sessions during the exhibition will address emerging trends, including the influence of new generations on luxury travel services and the creation of new travel experiences.
