Latest news with #Omran
Muscat Daily
3 days ago
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Omran earns RO25.2mn profit; RO156mn FDI in 2024
Muscat – Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran Group) has reported net profit of RO25.2mn and revenues exceeding RO58.3mn for 2024, driven by increased operational efficiency and investment activity. The figures reflect the group's growing impact on Oman's tourism sector and its broader contribution to economic diversification. The performance update was shared during a recent Board of Directors meeting, where members reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Omran's role as a leading force in tourism investment and development. Omran secured over RO156mn in foreign direct investment (FDI) last year, underscoring its ability to attract strategic global partnerships. The inflow of capital supports national efforts to increase the contribution of non-oil sectors to the GDP, a press release stated. A total of 820,365 guests stayed across Omran's hotel portfolio in 2024 – a 6% increase from the previous year. The average occupancy rate reached 45%, up by 2.6 percentage points year-on-year. A key milestone was the official opening of JW Marriott Muscat, adding to the sultanate's luxury hotel offerings. The group announced several new projects to strengthen Oman's position in high-end tourism. These include the Middle East's first Club Med Resort in Musandam and a partnership with Santani Wellness Resorts to develop wellness tourism in Dakhliyah. Omran also reported a 40% In-Country Value Index in 2024, with RO19mn directed towards small and medium enterprises. SME spending accounted for 34.7% of total procurement. Additionally, the group created 370 new jobs for Omani nationals. As part of its corporate governance goals, Omran introduced an Environmental, Social and Governance Framework to align with international sustainability standards and improve transparency across its operations. 'Omran's results underline its role as a key driver of tourism and investment in Oman. Through strategic partnerships, large-scale projects and a focus on sustainability, the group continues to position itself at the centre of the sultanate's economic diversification strategy,' the press release added.
Times of Oman
19-05-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
Oman's Ministry focuses on 'Sustainable Tourism'
Muscat: As part of its efforts to promote sustainable tourism in the Sultanate of Oman, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism supports initiatives launched by the public, private, and community sectors to achieve integrated environmental, economic, social, and tourism objectives. The Ministry plays a pivotal role in encouraging tourism investment within nature reserves through its effective partnerships, particularly with the Environment Authority through the Nature Reserves Committee and the Nature Reserve Investment Projects Study Committee. These partnerships contribute to proposing tourism projects and products with an environmental identity, imbued with cultural content that aligns with the dimensions of sustainable development and enhances the tourism experience. Dr. Saeed bin Khalfan Al Musharfi, Assistant Director General for Projects and Product Development and representative of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism on the Nature Reserve Investment Projects Study Committee, said that the committee is studying and evaluating investment opportunities in nature reserves from various perspectives, with a focus on the environmental and cultural characteristics and competitive advantages of each reserve. Al Mashrafi added that the signing of nine investment projects in seven nature reserves to promote ecotourism with local community participation, with an investment volume exceeding OMR 44 million, with the Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran) and several private sector institutions to develop, manage, and operate several investment projects in several reserves across the Sultanate of Oman's governorates, will contribute to the optimal utilization of the unique natural resources of these reserves, transforming them into sustainable ecotourism products that reflect the rich biodiversity while highlighting cultural content. He explained that these projects will include a range of distinguished services, most notably the establishment of information centers aimed at providing educational content about the biodiversity of each reserve, guidance services for tourists, and spaces dedicated to displaying handicrafts and local products provided by productive families. This will also include eco-friendly hotel facilities that align with the environmental framework of each reserve, ensuring a comprehensive and sustainable tourism experience. He emphasized that he is counting on these investment projects in nature reserves to provide exceptional experiences that enhance tourist interaction and connection with the surrounding natural and cultural environment through diverse activities that harmonize with the overall framework of the reserves. The tourist experience will not be limited to interacting with wildlife, but will extend to unique contemplative and astronomical activities, providing tourists with a unique, holistic experience that blends nature, science, and culture. Al Mashrafi stated that these investment projects will complement the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism's initiatives to launch other tourism models and products based on the optimal use of natural and cultural elements, such as adventure tourism, wellness tourism, and others. This will position the Sultanate of Oman as a tourist destination that caters to the tastes of local and international tourists. Al Mashrafi pointed out that one of the most important aspects of nature reserve development, operation, and management projects is ensuring effective local community participation. This is achieved by involving local community members in development, operation, and management programs, particularly by providing direct and indirect job opportunities for residents of neighboring areas. A number of private sector institutions, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, have signed agreements to manage, develop, and operate some reserves. Dr. Saeed bin Khalfan Al Mashrafi emphasized that the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism's role in supporting investment projects in nature reserves is not limited to technical and organizational aspects, but extends to employing tourism products in nature reserves within tourism promotion programs that the Ministry and its partners are working to implement in various local, regional and international exhibitions and forums. This makes the Sultanate of Oman a leading destination in the field of environmental and scientific tourism, attracting researchers, academics and students, in addition to naturalists, astronomers and general visitors who are fans of sustainable tourism.
TECHx
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- TECHx
Aseel Omran Joins Motorola as Brand Ambassador
Home » Top stories » Aseel Omran Joins Motorola as Brand Ambassador Saudi actress and singer Aseel Omran has partnered with Motorola as the brand's new ambassador. This collaboration marks the launch of Motorola's latest premium flip phone, the Razr 60 Ultra, in the Middle East. Born in Riyadh, Aseel Omran is known for her presence on reality shows like Gulf Stars and Hiya wa Huwa . She has over 6.5 million followers on Instagram and has worked with international music producers, including RedOne. Her creative journey and influence make her a powerful voice in the Arab entertainment industry. Omran reflects the values of Motorola—iconic design and cutting-edge innovation. She is seen as a role model for Saudi women. Her ability to connect with youth and her presence in fashion and music align well with Motorola's vision. Motorola aims to blend technology with lifestyle. Previous partnerships with brands like Swarovski, Pantone, and Bose show its commitment to culture and design. The brand's latest collaboration with Omran supports its goal to create deeper connections in the region. According to Motorola, Aseel's personality—bold, innovative, and influential—makes her a strong fit for the campaign. She is also known for supporting causes such as her advocacy with UNHCR. This partnership allows her to connect with her fans in more meaningful ways. 'I'm thrilled to partner with Motorola, a brand that shares my passion for blending iconic style and design with the latest cutting-edge technology,' said Omran. 'I'm excited to use the power of technology to connect with my audience in new and inspiring ways, and to continue empowering women across the Kingdom and the region.' Vinayak Shenoy, Marketing Director, MEA at Motorola, added: 'We're excited to welcome Aseel Omran to the Motorola family as our first ambassador in the Middle East. Aseel's talent and influence make her a role model who has defied cultural norms to define her own path and empower others. She perfectly aligns with our values of 'flipping the script' and 'Make it Iconic.' This partnership will help us reach a wider audience and celebrate cultural diversity, innovation, and collaboration.' The newly launched Motorola Razr 60 Ultra blends design and technology. It is compact and uses premium finishes like Alcantara and real wood. With moto AI integration, the phone offers a smarter user experience. Key features include: Qualcomm Snapdragon® AI engine 68W TurboPower™ fast charging, the fastest in any flip phone Motorola continues to bring lifestyle and innovation together through technology. Aseel Omran's role highlights the brand's commitment to the region and its evolving digital audience.
Observer
12-05-2025
- Business
- Observer
Agreements signed for investment in 7 nature reserves
Muscat: Agreements for investments in seven nature reserves were launched in Muscat on Monday Agreements were signed for projects that include eco-resorts, lodges and camps, visitor centers, viewing trails, adventure tourism, restaurants, a sea turtle aquarium, and an interactive exhibition. The agreements worth RO44 million were signed with the Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran) and other companies to develop to promote sustainable development, protect ecosystems, promote awareness on education, increase revenues, diversify sources of income, and ensure the sustainability of natural resources. Omran is investing in four of the seven reserves. The Environment Authority signed four contracts with the Oman Tourism Development Company, Omran Group, to develop, operate and manage four nature reserves, including (Ras Al Shajar Nature Reserve, Turtle Nature Reserve, and Al Maha Nature Reserve) and signed two other agreements with the same company to develop and operate the Lajshlion site in the Jabal Samhan Reserve and the Hayur site in the Wilayat of Mirbat. The Authority also signed two environmental investment contracts for two sites in the Jabal Shams Starlight Reserve to establish an eco-tourism resort with Madar Resorts Company and a Star Garden project with the Omani Society for Astronomy and Space. It also signed another contract with Al Majal Integrated Establishment to develop the Khor Al Mughsail Reserve in Salalah, Dhofar Governorate. This came during an official ceremony held today under the patronage of Salem bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, at the Mandarin Muscat Hotel. In his speech, Dr Abdullah bin Ali Al Amri, Chairman of the Environment Authority, explained that these projects include the establishment of eco-tourism resorts, a star park, eco-lodges, eco-tourism camps, visitor centers, interactive exhibitions, restaurants and cafes, viewing trails, safaris, adventure tourism in nature reserves, and an open sea turtle pond and lake. Dr Amri said, 'This investment in ecotourism aims to protect and preserve the natural heritage in nature reserves and ensure its sustainability for future generations.'
Muscat Daily
06-05-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Oman Kite Festival to showcase potential of adventure tourism
Muscat – Oman's growing reputation as a destination for adventure and sports tourism is set for another boost with the launch of the Oman Kite Festival 2025, announced by Omran Group in collaboration with Oman Sail. Scheduled to take place from July 15 to 24, the festival will begin at Barr al Hikman and conclude at Ras al Hadd, covering several of the sultanate's key coastal regions. Sultan Sulaiman al Khudoori, Assets Manager at Omran, said the initiative supports the group's strategy to diversify tourism offerings and capitalise on Oman's natural assets. He added that momentum from last year's downwinder races helped scale up the event. 'The expanded format is expected to attract a larger number of international athletes and deliver a richer tourism offering that reflects the diversity of Oman's coastal environments,' he said. Shaima Said al Asmi, events specialist at Oman Sail, described the festival as a milestone for marine sports development in the country. She noted that Oman's coastline offers ideal conditions for kite surfing, including ecological variety and favourable wind and weather. 'The participation of elite international kitesurfers brings a new dimension to the festival and strengthens Oman's positioning as a top destination for water-based adventure tourism,' she said. The festival will include a multi-stage 'Downwinder' race, beginning from Barr al Hikman to Masirah Island, then proceeding to Ras al Ruwais, followed by a stage from the Pink Lagoons to Al Ashkharah, and ending with a stretch from Ras al Jinz to Ras al Hadd. Additional races include the Kite Course Race at Barr al Hikman, a Coastal Race at Masirah Island, and a Slalom Race at Ras al Hadd. The event will also feature family-oriented activities and an exhibition for small and medium enterprises at Ashkharah Municipal Park.
