Latest news with #SalimbinMohammedalMahrouqi
Observer
25-05-2025
- Business
- Observer
Oman signs RO 56 million pacts to boost tourism
MUSCAT: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has signed three significant usufruct agreements valued at over RO 56 million to develop integrated tourism projects in the wilayats of Khasab, Nakhal and Sur. The agreements, signed on Sunday, May 25, by Salim bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, mark a major step in Oman's strategy to enhance its tourism sector and diversify the national economy. The first agreement, signed with Omran Group and represented by its CEO Hashel bin Obaid al Mahrouqi, covers the development of Wadi Shab, Wilayat of Sur in Al Sharqiyah South Governorate. This project seeks to position Wadi Shab as a year-round eco-adventure destination, attracting both domestic and international tourists. The planned development will include an adventure park featuring a zipline, mountain climbing trails, suspension bridges, walking paths, and designated swimming areas for both children and adults. The site will also offer restaurants and cafes, all designed to blend with the valley's rich biodiversity, geological features and natural attractions such as clear water pools, caves and waterfalls. With an investment of RO 2 million, the project is expected to be completed within 18 months from the date the agreement is activated. It will also open new opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the area. The second agreement was signed with Khasab Development and Investment Company, represented by its Managing Director Hilal bin Nasser al Harthy, to develop an integrated tourism complex named 'Sandan – The Pearl of Khasab". Located on a 43,658-square-metre plot of government land, the project is strategically situated near key attractions such as Khasab Fort and the Atana Musandam Hotel. It will feature a four-star hotel with 200 rooms, along with 450 residential units available for purchase by Omanis and non-Omanis alike. Complementing these will be a traditional-style market, retail outlets, diverse dining options, and various recreational and service facilities. With an investment cost estimated at RO 17 million, the project is expected to create between 250 and 300 jobs and will be completed within a seven-year period. The third and largest agreement involves Hamyan Investment and Project Development Company, represented by Managing Director Saud bin Hamad al Taie. The company will develop 'Hamyan Village", an integrated tourism complex in the Wilayat of Nakhal, Al Batinah South Governorate. Spanning 201,031 square metres of government land, the project will include a four-star hotel with 156 rooms and 535 residential units comprising villas and apartments, all available for local and foreign ownership. The development will also include a market, various restaurants, a water park, and a range of recreational and service amenities. With a total investment of RO 38 million, the project is expected to be completed within three years and will create between 300 and 350 job opportunities. Commenting on the projects, Dr Rashid bin Saleh al Hinai, Director-General of Planning at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, noted that these developments reflect Oman's commitment to sustainable tourism and economic diversification. He highlighted the expected positive impact on local communities through job creation and support for SMEs, while also enhancing Oman's appeal as a leading destination for nature, heritage and adventure tourism. — ONA
Observer
22-05-2025
- Observer
Dhofar reviews preparations for khareef season
SALALAH: A meeting held at the Millennium Resort Salalah assessed the readiness of government and private sector entities in Dhofar Governorate to welcome the 2025 Khareef Dhofar Season. The meeting was chaired by HH Sayyid Marwan bin Turki al Said, Governor of Dhofar. During the meeting, attended by Salim bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, and Dr Ahmed bin Mohsin al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, the governor stressed the importance of integrated efforts for the success of the season by ensuring preparedness among all relevant entities, each within its jurisdiction, to achieve a successful and exemplary khareef season. Dhofar Municipality presented a visual display outlining its plan and readiness to improve services across all areas under its purview. These included an evaluation of performance during the previous season, traffic management plans, inspection and oversight measures, coordination with other entities, internal road conditions, and the readiness of proposed sites to host events and activities accompanying the tourist season across various wilayats. The Dhofar Governorate Police Command presented its plan for the khareef season, focusing on managing the influx of tourists, ensuring smooth traffic flow in high-density areas, distributing security checkpoints and outlining rescue operations, among other measures. The Directorate-General of Information in Dhofar Governorate presented its plans for broadcasting media programmes during the khareef season through a comprehensive media strategy. These include a range of radio and television programmes, news reports, press coverage and diverse digital content tailored for social media platforms. Discussions also covered the readiness of Salalah Airport, proactive services and procedures, medical and ambulance services, heritage and tourism preparedness, accommodation facilities and the required level of tourist services for the season. Additionally, the meeting addressed enhancing telecommunications services, strengthening coverage in certain areas, ensuring the provision of electricity and water resources to meet increased seasonal demand, and other relevant aspects related to the khareef season. The meeting was attended by some walis and officials from government and private institutions in the governorate. - ONA
Observer
18-05-2025
- Business
- Observer
Conference focuses on museums and their role in tourism development
MANAH, MAY 18 The three-day International Conference on 'Museums and their Role in Tourism Development' kicked off on Sunday under the auspices of Salim bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, at the Oman Across Ages Museum in the Wilayat of Manah. Organised by the museum in cooperation with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and the National Records and Archives Authority, the conference brings together over 42 researchers, academics and experts from 21 countries. Coinciding with International Museum Day, the conference aims to underscore the essential role of museums in driving sustainable tourism, preserving cultural identity and fostering intercultural dialogue. It seeks to highlight how museums can function as dynamic educational and cultural platforms, contribute to economic diversification and embrace modern digital technologies to enrich the visitor experience. Eng Al Yaqdhan bin Abdullah al Harthy, Director-General of the Oman Across Ages Museum and Chairman of the Organising Committee, stated that the conference reflects Oman's growing stature as a regional hub for museum and cultural studies. "The museums today have become integral pillars of sustainable tourism by transforming history into interactive experiences that engage both the senses and the intellect. Museums offer visitors an opportunity for thoughtful participation, serving not only as cultural destinations but also as platforms that encourage dialogue between civilisations, support the creative economy and promote inclusive educational content," he said. The organising committee received nearly 300 research submissions, of which 42 were accepted and will be presented during eight intensive scientific sessions over the three-day conference. In addition to the academic programme, the conference features a poster exhibition and six specialised workshops delivered by experts from Oman and abroad. These workshops focus on various fields such as digital marketing for museums, heritage conservation techniques and community engagement for museum. Dr Ech Cherki Dahmali, President of the Arab Organization for Museums and a leading member of the International Council of Museums (ICOM), provided insights on the importance of museum development and global collaboration during his keynote address. He emphasised the council's role in enhancing museum development, supporting global collaboration and providing guidance during times of cultural crises. He also reflected on the deep cultural connections between Arab museums and international networks. The conference programme covers four key theme areas: museum and cultural institutions, economy and museum tourism, the cultural and educational role of museums, and digital technologies in museum exhibitions. These themes will be explored through a variety of research papers and expert presentations from countries including Jordan, Egypt, Syria, Algeria, Sudan, Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Russia, India, Iran, and others, alongside contributions from several Omani researchers and students. The event also features contributions from leading Omani academics and public institutions. The workshops and discussions are intended to engage museum professionals, tourism sector stakeholders, educators and students in meaningful dialogue and enhance their practical skills.
Observer
12-05-2025
- Business
- Observer
RO 44m eco-tourism projects to be set up in seven nature reserves
Muscat: At a cost of more than RO 44 million, nine environmental investment projects are set to be established in seven reserves as the Environment Authority (EA) signed contracts for eco-tourism investment projects in nature reserves at a ceremony held on Monday. The Environment Authority signed four contracts with the Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran) to develop, operate and manage four nature reserves. It also 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. Additionally, it 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. The Authority also signed another contract with Al Majal Integrated Establishment to develop the Khor Al Mughsail Reserve in Salalah, Dhofar Governorate. Dr Abdullah bin Ali al Amri, Chairman of the Environment Authority, stated, 'These agreements will pave the way for eco-tourism in the country and further develop the partnership between the Environment Authority and the private sector. The projects are expected to be completed in two to four years. Some nature reserves already have ongoing activities. Once completed, the projects could bring job opportunities.' He added that the local community will have opportunities for economic activities. 'This is also a way to foster a connection between biodiversity, the local community and visitors,' he said. The official signing ceremony took place under the auspices of Salim bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism. The goal is to promote sustainable development, protect ecosystems, promote tourism and environmental education, increase revenues, diversify sources of income, and ensure the sustainability of natural resources for future generations. Dr Al Amri explained that these projects include the establishment of eco-tourism resorts, a star park, eco-lodges, eco-tourism camps, visitor centres, interactive exhibitions, restaurants and cafes, viewing trails, safaris, adventure tourism in nature reserves, and an open sea turtle pond and lake. 'This investment in eco-tourism aims to protect and preserve the natural heritage in nature reserves and ensure its sustainability for future generations.' The investment activities and packages in nature reserves were selected according to specific controls, standards and general conditions consistent with their management, operation and development plans. These include: the ability to prepare, implement and manage tourism and environmental activities or projects; attaching the required plans, documents, designs and explanatory maps; and following best practices. The projects will be implemented in Jabal Samhan Reserve and Hayur site in the Wilayat of Mirbat, Dhofar Governorate, the Ras Al Shajar Nature Reserve in the Wilayat of Qurayat, Muscat Governorate, the Wetlands Reserve in Al Wusta Governorate, the Natural Turtle Reserve in Al Sharqiyah South Governorate, and the Arabian Oryx Reserve in Al Wusta Governorate.
Observer
30-04-2025
- Business
- Observer
Boost to tourist flow for Khareef Dhofar
DUBAI: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism on Wednesday signed a cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia's Flyadeal on the sidelines of its participation at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai. The agreement aims to enhance air connectivity between Oman and Saudi Arabia, support tourist inflow through cost-effective and efficient travel options and bolster tourism to Dhofar Governorate during the khareef season. Moreover, the ministry signed another agreement with Saudi travel company Almusafir to promote Oman's tourism offerings and attract more visitors through integrated travel packages and services, contributing to an increase in tourist arrivals from Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, Salim bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, met separately at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai Fatima Jaffer al Sairafi, Bahrain's Minister of Tourism, and Thoriq Ibrahim, Maldives' Minister of Tourism and Environment, at Oman's pavilion. The discussions focused on enhancing cooperation to boost tourist traffic and joint tourism investments, supporting the implementation of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism's promotional plan for the year and the development of Oman's tourism sector. Oman's pavilion at the exhibition — featuring 37 tourism and hospitality companies — has seen significant interest from travel and tourism firms, providing Omani participants an opportunity to showcase Oman's tourism potential. — ONA
