Muscat: A new agreement signed between Omran and the Ministry of Tourism appears set to create new unique adventure experiences in the Governorate of Musandam.
The Sultanate’s executive arm for the development of the tourism sector plans to bring an array of activities, including the creation of zip lines, hiking trails, mountain biking trails and via ferrata to provide local, regional and international visitors with more opportunities to explore the Sultanate.
According to the Ministry of Tourism, the Sultanate experienced a 4.7 per cent growth in international visitors in 2017, a testament to the efforts of the government to boost non-oil sectors as part of the Vision 2040.
With spectacular views onto the fjord of the Strait of Hormuz, Musandam is a popular tourism destination for domestic and international travellers, and is renowned for its scenic, mountainous terrain and rich heritage that draw visitors to immerse in its wonders all year round.
Commenting on the recent agreement, Peter Walichnowski, CEO, Omran, said, “Musandam is truly a beautiful destination and is well known for its sea and mountain adventures, as well as family friendly activities, such as dolphin watching and fishing. Through this project, we aim to increase the number of activities available to visitors, whilst preserving the peninsula’s natural beauty and safeguarding it for future generations.”
Boasting an abundance of sheltered fjords, some only connected to the mainland by narrow cliffs, the new facilities are set to further highlight the charm of the hidden gem.
The development of the projects will commence in 2018 and will be focused in the Khasab area.
“In addition to boosting tourism in the Sultanate, this project will also create new job opportunities, as well as project opportunities for local SMEs. This is in line with our ongoing commitment to nurture Omani talent, support the economy and strengthen our ties with the private sector,” added Walichnowski.
Omran currently owns and manages three hotels in Musandam Governorate: Atana Musandam, Atana Khasab and Golden Tulip Dibba. This announcement is the latest in a series of key partnerships and tourism projects in 2018 that will bolster tourism in the Sultanate.