Latest news with #SpecialEconomicZoneAuthorityatDuqm
Muscat Daily
12-08-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
SEZAD plants over 11,800 trees in Duqm to boost green spaces
Duqm – The Special Economic Zone Authority at Duqm (SEZAD) has implemented extensive afforestation plans from 2015 to mid-2025, planting 11,812 trees and creating nearly 49,000 sq m of green spaces at a cost of RO 4.4mn. During the preparatory phase (2015–2021), 3,414 trees were planted, 24,760 sq m of green areas were developed, and modern irrigation systems were installed, with many sites connected to treated wastewater networks. The first phase (2021–2025) saw the planting of 8,398 trees, 24,144 sq m of green spaces, and the launch of Duqm's first agricultural nursery to supply thousands of seedlings annually. Key sites include Sultan Qaboos bin Said Street, Airport Street, Sai's commercial district park, and the tourist beach park. SEZAD officials said the initiative improves the local climate, reduces sandstorm effects, and provides recreational spaces, enhancing Duqm's appeal as a sustainable, investment-friendly city. The next phase will expand afforestation projects and irrigation networks to further strengthen its environmental and tourism potential.
Observer
26-07-2025
- Business
- Observer
Duqm receives investments worth RO853 million in tourism
Duqm - The total investment committed to the tourism sector in the Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZD) by the end of last year amounted to more than RO853 million. The list of tourism investments in Duqm includes 21 hotels, 10 hotel apartments, and a multi-facility tourism project comprising hotels, villas, and hotel apartments. These figures reflect the growing demand for tourism services in the region, the increasing number of tourists and visitors, the vibrant business environment, and the facilities and incentives provided by the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones, and the management of the Special Economic Zone in Duqm. Statistics issued by the Special Economic Zone Authority at Duqm (SEZAD) indicate that the total number of completed tourism projects by the end of last year reached 16, including 11 projects under construction and five projects with construction work yet to commence. Engineer Ahmed bin Ali Akaak, CEO of the Special Economic Zone Authority at Duqm (SEZAD), said that the region enjoys significant tourism interest due to its location on the Arabian Sea overlooking the Indian Ocean, moderate temperatures throughout the year, and the availability of numerous facilities and services that support tourism growth. He added that the region also offers numerous tourist attractions such as the various beaches, the Rock Garden, Duqm Beach Park, and the public park in the Sai Commercial District, which is one of the new landmarks in the Special Economic Zone Authority at Duqm. Several other tourist attractions can also be reached through Duqm, such as Barr Al Hikman and the Al Maha Nature Reserve. He added that the management of the Special Economic Zone in Duqm (SEZAD) is working in cooperation with the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones on an ongoing basis to organize numerous sporting, economic, and tourism events to highlight the region's investment and tourism potential and encourage investors to invest in the tourism sector, which is one of the region's main investment sectors. He stressed that the region's strategy for the period (2025-2030), which was launched in the first quarter of this year, included a number of key axes related to the development of tourism activities, most notably the axis of developing a balanced lifestyle and the axis of attracting tourists and partners. He pointed out that the first axis related to developing a balanced lifestyle aims to increase Duqm's attractiveness to be a preferred lifestyle through the urban, commercial and social development plan that focuses on making Duqm an attractive location for visitors, residents and investors, while the second axis related to attracting tourists and partners focuses on stimulating investment and ensuring Duqm's emergence as a unique tourist destination, through a wide range of visitor experiences, in light of the presence of an increasing mix of tourist attractions. He pointed out that the "Pass by" campaign, which began its activities in the Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZD) in recent days, is one of the most prominent tourism events aimed at promoting the region and its tourism potential. The campaign has achieved numerous positive results over the past years and has contributed to attracting many tourists coming to or from Dhofar Governorate. The CEO of the Special Economic Zone Authority at Duqm (SEZAD) explained that this year is expected to witness significant growth, especially with the many events that will be organized during the campaign, which will meet the aspirations of the region's visitors. He explained that Duqm is located on an open sea, which has given it a tourist advantage, with a group of beaches available in the center of Duqm, in Nafun and Ras Madrakah. The management of the Special Economic Zone Authority at Duqm is working to encourage the private sector and entrepreneurs to invest in the region's natural features to implement several tourism projects.
Muscat Daily
23-07-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
SEZAD to host investor-focused sessions on AI, workforce and supply chains
Duqm – The Special Economic Zone Authority at Duqm (SEZAD) will hold four specialised sessions under the Duqm Summer Series programme in August aimed at engaging the investor community. Scheduled at the SEZAD headquarters in Duqm, Al Wusta governorate, the sessions will focus on artificial intelligence (AI) applications, workforce adaptability, resilient supply chains, and workplace culture. Ahmed Ali Akaak, CEO of SEZAD, said the sessions are designed to provide practical insights relevant to businesses operating in fast-changing environments. 'Our investment community operates in a dynamic business environment that requires practical solutions rather than general theories. The Duqm Summer Series will host speakers with real-world experience who will share their journeys, including the challenges they faced and how they addressed them,' he said. Akaak noted that the Special Economic Zone in Duqm spans diverse sectors such as renewable energy, manufacturing, marine resources and logistics. He said the sessions will offer a platform for specialists and officials to exchange innovative ideas and sector-specific solutions. The first session on August 5 will explore AI and automation, with speakers sharing case studies on transitioning from experimentation to real-world deployment. The discussion will include workforce restructuring and ethical concerns related to automated decision-making. The second session, on August 12, will focus on workforce development. It will highlight strategies used by organisations to balance talent growth with preserving corporate culture, with a focus on building motivated teams and improving retention. The third session on August 19 will address global trade and supply chains, examining operational challenges and solutions drawn from disruptions in recent years. Given Duqm's location between Europe, Asia and Africa, the session will also explore how the zone can serve as a hub for diversified and resilient supply networks. The series will conclude on August 26 with a final session on workplace culture and mental health. It will examine how companies can create supportive environments that improve productivity and reduce employee turnover, grounded in practical measures rather than promotional slogans.
Muscat Daily
16-02-2025
- Sport
- Muscat Daily
First 'Duqm Sports Forum' kicks off at SEZAD
Duqm – The inaugural Duqm Sports Forum commenced today at the Special Economic Zone in Duqm (SEZAD), aiming to promote sports activities and increase awareness across the region. The event has attracted participation from 19 institutions spanning the public and private sectors, alongside 800 players competing in a variety of sports. The forum also features 61 administrators and supervisors overseeing the activities. Running for four days, the event promises a comprehensive sporting experience for participants and visitors alike. The forum will showcase eight sports, including beach soccer, beach volleyball, tug of war, tartan football, indoor volleyball (for both men and women), and padel. Matches and activities will take place across several venues, including Duqm Beach Park, OQ8 Hall, and Park Inn Padel Courts. Eng. Ahmed bin Ali Akaak, CEO of the Special Economic Zone Authority at Duqm, highlighted that hosting the forum reinforces Duqm's position as a premier destination for investment and leisure. He also emphasised the significance of the region's beaches, which will host various beach sports, and noted Duqm's commitment to improving the quality of life for its residents and workers through such activities. 'The forum reflects our drive towards sustainable development by organising events that not only contribute to community development but also foster stronger social ties,' said Eng. Akaak. 'We aim to integrate our growth across multiple fields, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable environment for all.' In addition to the sports events, the forum will feature a range of entertainment activities, including cafes, live musical performances, children's activities, and paragliding shows. These elements are designed to offer a diverse and enjoyable experience for all attendees, contributing to Duqm's ongoing efforts to enhance quality of life and foster community spirit.
