The South Batinah Governorate has commenced a tender process for consulting services to develop designs and documents for road and cable car infrastructure leading to the scenic Wakan area in Wadi Mistal, located in the Wilayat of Nakhal.
Interested parties have the opportunity to obtain Bid Documents until April 19, with the deadline for final submissions scheduled for May 9.
Wakan has become a popular destination, offering a beautiful combination of mountainous landscapes and lush plains, dotted with historical archaeological sites.
His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik emphasized the importance of establishing a clear timeline for the development of the Al Jabal Al Abyad area and the village of Wakan during a January cabinet meeting.
This directive aims to strengthen the basic infrastructure and create favorable conditions to fully utilize the tourism potential of these areas.
Companies specializing in urban engineering consultancy, master planning, civil and architectural engineering consultancy, quantity surveying, project management, electrical and mechanical engineering consultancy, landscape design, and geographical and continental surveys are eligible to participate in the bidding process.
In order to support the local economy and workforce, preference will be given to bids that demonstrate significant Omanisation and the use of domestic products.
Situated 2,000m above sea level in the Western Hajar Mountains, Wakan is a charming mountain village with picturesque terraced gardens that provide stunning views of the nearby peaks and the enchanting Wadi Mistal below.
To enhance the tourism facilities in Wakan, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has undertaken infrastructure improvements in the village, including the construction of a 1.1-kilometer rock steps walkway leading to the highest summit of the village.
This scenic pathway leads to an awe-inspiring overlook, offering panoramic views of the valley that stretches from the village borders to the foothills of the mountains surrounding the Wilayat of Nakhal, which is famously known as Wadi Mistal.
The aim of this initiative is to enhance the overall tourist experience and promote a culture of hiking in the area. Wakan serves as the starting point for various hiking trails and is conveniently located approximately 150km from Muscat, accessible via the Nakhal-Awabi road turnoff to Wadi Mistal.
The introduction of the cable car project is a significant step forward in improving accessibility to this hidden gem, making it even more appealing to both domestic and international tourists.
By providing a seamless and exhilarating journey to Wakan, the cable car promises to enhance the overall visitor experience, offering unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
By utilizing the region's natural and cultural resources in a sustainable manner, Wakan is poised to become a model for responsible tourism development in Oman, showcasing the harmonious coexistence of heritage preservation and economic growth.
