Latest news with #Salalah
Times of Oman
3 days ago
- General
- Times of Oman
Environmental initiative to preserve wild trees in Dhofar
Muscat: In the enchanting mountains of the Dhofar Governorate, more than 5,000 wild trees , Arabian Dhofari Buttontree and wild fig trees were pruned during the years 2023 and 2024, as part of a qualitative initiative to protect them and enhance their growth, and The field results showed a significant improvement in tree health and growth. The Environment Authority has introduced a groundbreaking initiative focused on pruning wild trees in the mountains of Dhofar Governorate. This project aims to enhance the health of key native species, including the Arabian Dhofari Buttontree (Anogeissus Dhofaric)and wild fig trees (Ficus Acacia). By protecting these trees from environmental threats and pests, the initiative supports Oman's Vision 2040 for ecological sustainability. Scheduled to take place annually in May and June—just before the autumn season—the program has already demonstrated promising results. Field surveys have observed noticeable growth in new branches and overall improvements in tree health. Pruning statistics indicate steady progress: - 2023: 2,032 trees pruned - 2024: 3,180 trees pruned - 2025: 3,000 trees targeted for pruning The effort spans multiple areas, including Salalah, Taqah, Mirbat, Rakhyut, and Dhalkut. Experts predict that this focused approach will contribute significantly to preserving Dhofar's natural environment and ensuring sustainable practices for future generations.
Gulf Business
5 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Business
Muriya's CEO shares how the company is enabling integrated living in Oman
Image: Supplied Ahead of its participation at OREX 2025 in Oman, Engineer Wael Al-Lawati, CEO of Muriya is a joint venture where Orascom Development Holding (ODH) and Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN) are partners. Orascom Development Holding, a leading developer of integrated communities, holds a 70 per cent stake, while OMRAN, the government's tourism development arm, holds 30 per cent. Muriya focuses on developing Integrated Tourism Complexes (ITCs) in Oman, highlighting the Sultanate's history, heritage, and natural beauty In this interview with Gulf Business , Al-Lawati shares milestones, investment trends, and how Muriya is aligning with Oman Vision 2040. Tell us about your participation at OREX 2025. Muriya's presence at OREX was a reaffirmation of our commitment to Oman's Vision 2040 and our pivotal role in shaping the country's tourism and real estate sectors. This year, we showcased Hawana Salalah and Jebel Sifah — model destinations that exemplify sustainable, integrated waterfront living. These developments fuse luxury, lifestyle, and Oman's natural and cultural richness, demonstrating how tourism and real estate can drive economic diversification and long-term national value. Our participation also complements key government initiatives to position Oman as a global tourism and investment hub. How do Jebel Sifah and Hawana Salalah align with Oman Vision 2040 and its economic diversification goals? At Muriya, our integrated destinations are built in harmony with Oman Vision 2040. They contribute to economic diversification by generating employment, encouraging foreign investment, and promoting year-round tourism. With over $750m invested by Orascom Development and Omran, we've enhanced tourism infrastructure and international appeal. Events like IRONMAN 70.3 Salalah, SOCCA, and global fishing tournaments have made our destinations internationally recognisable, attracting athletes and tourists from over 50 countries. What are the latest milestones or upcoming phases for Jebel Sifah and Hawana Salalah? Our destinations are in constant evolution. At Jebel Sifah, we recently launched Al Raya Villas — a wellness-focused, golf-facing community with private gardens, mountain views, and access to fitness amenities. The development also boasts Muscat's first ocean-facing PGA Harradine nine-hole golf course, an 84-berth marina, alfresco dining, and boutique hotels. Meanwhile, Hawana Salalah remains Oman's largest integrated tourism complex with more than 1,200 luxury hotel rooms, a 170-berth marina, Hawana Aqua Park, and four residential districts. We're expanding with new waterfront properties, lifestyle offerings, and high-end hospitality. What differentiates Muriya's developments from other resort or lifestyle communities in Oman and the wider region? We don't just build properties — we create destinations. Hawana Salalah and Jebel Sifah offer a blend of upscale living, leisure, and cultural authenticity. Spanning 13.6 million square metres, Hawana Salalah features luxury hotel brands, Oman's first aqua park, and all waterfront properties with scenic views. Our developments offer hotel-branded residences, marinas, golf courses, and global events that position them as top-of-mind for visitors and residents seeking unmatched lifestyle experiences in How has your partnership with Omran supported Muriya's growth and ability to navigate Oman's regulatory environment? Our joint venture with Omran has been foundational. This public-private partnership merges Orascom's global development expertise with Omran's local knowledge. Together, we've invested over $750mn, created thousands of jobs, supported SMEs, and delivered two of Oman's most admired communities. It's a partnership built on trust, alignment with national goals, and a shared commitment to sustainable development. What trends are you seeing in foreign investment and tourism, and how is Muriya adapting its strategy to attract international interest? Oman is increasingly viewed as a stable, naturally rich destination offering long-term value. International buyers are drawn to the lifestyle, investment potential, and serenity of our destinations. We're adapting with a diversified property portfolio — from hotel-branded residences to standalone villas — while ensuring ease of ownership. Our in-house service division, Wateera, provides property management and rental solutions for global homeowners, creating a seamless experience from purchase to stay. What's next for Muriya? Are there plans to expand beyond current destinations or tap into emerging segments? As Oman advances its Vision 2040 agenda, Muriya will remain a key contributor. Our focus is on deepening the value of Jebel Sifah and Hawana Salalah while exploring new lifestyle segments like wellness retreats and digital nomad-friendly communities. We aim to pioneer sustainable living concepts, host world-class events, and continue attracting global visitors — all while honouring Oman's cultural and environmental heritage. Our destinations will evolve into future-ready lifestyle hubs that serve generations to come.
Zawya
7 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Muriya showcases outstanding destinations at OREX 2025
Muscat, Oman – Muriya, the developer behind award winning destinations—Hawana Salalah and Jebel Sifah—made a strong statement at the OREX Design & Build Oman Exhibition 2025, presenting its flagship developments as shining examples of serene living, coastal elegance, and high-value investment in the Sultanate. Hawana Salalah and Jebel Sifah, by Orascom Development and Omran, are fully integrated towns that feature harmonious waterfront living fully connected with nature. Hawana Salalah features a 13.6 km coastline of white sandy beaches with lush greenery, 5-star resorts, vibrant year-round marina, Water park and culinary F&B dining experiences overlooking the magnificent ocean views, whereas Jebel Sifah 40 min away from Muscat is 7km of pristine beaches, 9-hole golf course, stunning coastline featuring the Hajar mountains backdrop. The destinations have become the top of mind mixed-use residential, entertainment and hospitality landmarks and are year-round event hubs, hosting internationally renowned tournaments such as IRONMAN 70.3 Salalah, the SOCCA World Cup, and the International Fishing competition. 'OREX provides the ideal platform to demonstrate how Muriya is elevating Oman's profile on the global tourism and investment map,' said engineer Wael Al Lawati, CEO of Muriya. 'Hawana Salalah and Jebel Sifah are more than residential projects, they are immersive lifestyle destinations that embody Oman's breathtaking nature and authentic charm, while offering unique experiences that resonate with today's discerning residents, travelers, and investors'. The diversity of properties at the destinations ranges from hotel branded residences to standalone neighborhoods with Townhouses, Villas and apartments, all meticulously serviced by Wateera (Muriya's property management and Rental services division) ensuring seamless rental and hospitality management for homeowners around the world. With over 1,200 luxury hotel rooms, thousands of delivered waterfront homes, and a pipeline of ongoing developments such as Amazi in Hawana Salalah and Al Raya in Sifah, Muriya continues to redefine tourism-led real estate in Oman. Its integrated townships blend leisure, wellness, community living, and sustainable design—making them attractive for both investors and international residents seeking long-term value. As Oman accelerates its transformation under Vision 2040, Muriya remains at the forefront—building destinations that inspire the local, regional and international communities. About Orascom Development Holding: Orascom Development Holding is a leading international developer specializing in vibrant, integrated communities in Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. For more than 35 years, Orascom Development has been a pioneer in creating destinations where people are inspired to live, work, and play with passion and purpose. From El Gouna's stunning Egyptian coastal town by the Red Sea to Andermatt Swiss Alps' breath-taking, yearround mountain destination, each master-planned community is a testament to Orascom Development's commitment to place-making at its finest. The integrated towns harmoniously combine residential areas with private villas and apartments, hotels, and award-winning leisure and commercial amenities – including golf courses, marinas, sports facilities, retail shops and restaurants. Orascom Development owns a land bank of more than 100 million square meters with approximately 40% under development or developed into thriving communities in Egypt (El Gouna, Makadi Heights, O West, Taba Heights, and Byoum), in the GCC (The Cove in the UAE and Jebel Sifah and Hawana Salalah in Oman), and in Europe (Andermatt Swiss Alps in Switzerland, Luštica Bay in Montenegro and West Carclaze Garden Village in the UK). Orascom Development's hospitality portfolio includes 33 premium and luxury hotels with more than 7,000 rooms across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. ODH shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange. For more information, please visit About OMRAN Group The executive arm of the Sultanate of Oman for tourism development, is responsible for driving the growth of the nation's tourism sector. Established in 2005, OMRAN is committed to creating world-class tourism assets, lifestyle communities, and destinations that reflect the Sultanate's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. The company plays a key role in realizing Oman's 2040 Tourism Strategy by fostering sustainable tourism development that supports economic diversification and creates job opportunities for locals. OMRAN's diverse portfolio includes the development of hotels, resorts, mixed-use communities, and tourism infrastructure projects across Oman, working in collaboration with both public and private sector partners.
Times of Oman
26-05-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
Dhofar Municipal Council reviews development, service projects
Salalah: The Dhofar Municipal Council, during its meeting on Monday, reviewed recommendations and proposals from the Ministry of Interior aimed at enhancing municipal councils' role in sustainable development. The discussions focused on strengthening coordination with relevant authorities and involving the council in prioritizing developmental projects. Chaired by HH Sayyid Marwan bin Turki Al Said, Governor of Dhofar and Chairman of the Municipal Council, the meeting commended the recent launch of Dhofar's comprehensive strategy, communication strategy, and promotional identity. These were developed in collaboration with government and private sector partners, as well as community stakeholders, to accelerate development through a shared and integrated vision. The council also hosted specialists from the Directorate General of Consumer Protection in Dhofar, who presented a visual overview of the directorate's key plans and initiatives for 2024 and 2025. Additionally, the meeting discussed outcomes from the council's main committee meetings, including proposals to establish recreational spaces in residential neighborhoods and a public park in the Wilayat of Taqa, alongside community initiatives to boost economic and social development. Members were briefed on the findings of a field visit by the Governorate Development Committee to the Wadi Dawkah Frankincense site, where they reviewed project updates and exchanged ideas on enhancing its economic viability. The council also reviewed responses from the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones, the Directorate General of Housing and Urban Planning, and the Ministry of Health regarding key issues affecting the governorate and the measures taken to address them.
Times of Oman
26-05-2025
- General
- Times of Oman
Dhofar endowments celebrates Quran competition winners
Salalah: The Directorate General of Endowments and Religious Affairs in Dhofar Governorate on Monday celebrated the conclusion of the "Harvest of Quran Schools" competitions for the 1446 AH, 2025 at the Sultan Qaboos Youth Complex for Culture and Entertainment in Salalah. The ceremony featured a visual presentation showcasing Quran schools in Dhofar and the stages of the competitions, along with performances by students, including Quranic recitations and religious hymns. The competitions aimed to develop students' skills in Quran recitation, memorisation, and lessons from the Prophet's Sunnah, while instilling Islamic values in youth. Dr. Ahmed Mohsen Al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality and patron of the event, honored 200 outstanding male and female winners. These included participants from the seventh edition of the "Harvest of Quran Schools" competition and the third edition of the "Nibras Al Huda" competition for memorising Hadiths, as well as distinguished achievers from Quran study circles in mosques and Quran schools across the governorate.
