Muscat: As part of its ongoing dedication to bolster the tourism industry and create growth opportunities, the Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran Group) has revealed a series of strategic investment collaborations with prominent local and international organizations.
These announcements were made during the Group’s 20th anniversary celebrations, which took place under the patronage of Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, and were attended by ministers, dignitaries, partners, investors, and key figures from Oman’s tourism sector.
The celebration highlighted two decades of growth and development since the establishment of Omran Group by Royal Decree in 2005.
Throughout this time, the Group has emerged as a key player in tourism and economic development, improving Oman’s investment attractiveness and fostering a sustainable ecosystem of hospitality and infrastructure.
Omran Group has created integrated destinations and hospitality assets that blend authenticity with modernity, providing unique experiences that highlight the Sultanate’s rich tourism potential.
Abdulsalam Mohammed Al Murshidi, President of the Oman Investment Authority, stated: “This event signifies a crucial milestone in evaluating the impact of the Authority’s economic diversification initiatives through Omran Group, by initiating strategic investments in the tourism sector — one of the most promising fields with extensive economic and social benefits — and by formulating plans to further enhance this impact in future planning phases.
“The Authority, via Omran Group, is also dedicated to strengthening the Sultanate of Oman’s status as a premier tourism and investment destination, in alignment with the priorities of the ‘Economy & Development’ and ‘People & Society’ pillars of Oman Vision 2040.
Azzan Qassim Al Busaidi, the Chairman of Omran Group, emphasized that the Group will persist in shaping the future of the tourism industry through close collaboration with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, as well as other governmental bodies, thereby further elevating Oman’s position in global tourism.
He reiterated that Omran Group is dedicated to making significant contributions to Oman Vision 2040 while aligning with the National Tourism Strategy.
Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, the CEO of Omran Group, pointed out the Group’s commitment to establishing a wide network of local and international partnerships, especially with organizations that specialize in tourism investment and urban development.
He remarked that this strategy is complemented by improved infrastructure, a variety of tourism experiences, and new investment opportunities that demonstrate the increasing international confidence in Oman’s investment environment.
He further stated that Omran Group will persist in advancing the sector with a forward-thinking vision, characterized by innovative strategic projects, in collaboration with government partners, investors, entrepreneurs, and local communities.
The ceremony also highlighted the progress made on significant developments and strategic partnerships that Omran Group is fostering across its integrated tourism complexes.
These developments included luxury hospitality projects, creative visitor experiences, and new collaborations aimed at bolstering tourism infrastructure, broadening accommodation options, and creating more opportunities to discover Oman’s natural beauty, heritage, and leisure activities.
The new agreements highlighted Omran Group’s all-encompassing strategy to enhance the tourism sector and diversify the integrated visitor experience in the Sultanate.
They covered several critical focus areas, including new business avenues to facilitate the sector’s digital transformation, the empowerment of national enterprises, and the sustainability of the tourism value chain.
Integrated Tourism Complexes
Key highlights included the announcement of a partnership with VA Group to create a mixed-use development at the Sultan Qaboos Port waterfront, along with three new collaborations under the Yiti Integrated Tourism Development: two mixed-use projects with VA Group and Aurelian Group, and a luxury resort in collaboration with the global Nobu brand through Enevória Development.
Additionally, a partnership was revealed with Oman Agriculture Development Company to establish Janaen Salalah, the first integrated agri-tourism project of its kind in the Sultanate.
The event also showcased design models for several projects, including Madinat Al Irfan, the Sultan Qaboos Port Waterfront, the forthcoming Four Seasons Resort, and the Opera District development.
Authentic and Luxury Hospitality The event highlighted the design model for the upcoming Club Med Resort in Musandam, marking the first of its kind for the global brand in Oman and the broader region.
This project introduces a new level of luxury hospitality and enhances Musandam’s attractiveness as a unique destination.
Updates were also provided on ongoing projects such as Santani Jabal Shams Resort, which emphasizes luxury wellness and health tourism, and Alie Nivas Musandam Resort, which combines premium hospitality with unspoiled natural surroundings.
Collectively, these initiatives broaden OMRAN Group’s hospitality portfolio and diversify Oman’s accommodation options.
Enhancing Tourism Experiences
The ceremony also showcased updates on initiatives aimed at enriching visitor experiences, such as Wadi Shab, known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities; Ras Al Shajar Nature Reserve, a benchmark for sustainable eco-tourism; Majlis Al Jinn Cave, recognized as one of the largest and most distinctive caves globally; Al Hoota Cave, which provides both educational and recreational opportunities; and Hayl Al Diyar, which introduces a cultural and leisure aspect.
Together, these efforts bolster Oman’s tourism appeal and solidify its status as a premier global destination for nature and adventure.
New Business Initiatives
Omran Group also revealed new strategic alliances that broaden commercial opportunities.
These included acquiring a stake in UnderTheDoormat, which supports the alternative accommodation sector and enhances digital marketing efforts; investing in the digital travel platform Godoba, which propels the digital transformation of tourism through innovative solutions; and forming a partnership with Handicrafts House - Dar Al Herfya to create a dedicated crafts and heritage center in Muttrah, highlighting Omani handicrafts, traditional industries, and cultural heritage.
As Omran Group marks two decades of success, it confidently embarks on a new chapter in its journey, grounded in innovative projects and strategic partnerships that diversify the national economy, elevate Oman’s profile as a tourism and investment hub, and continue to realize Oman Vision 2040 – both economically and socially – in alignment with the Sultanate’s genuine identity and sustainable principles.
