Oman has broken ground on a landmark Integrated Tourism Complex in Salalah, setting the stage for a transformative 2.5 million sq m development aimed at boosting tourism, attracting investment, and reinforcing the sultanate’s status as a premier global travel destination.

 

Located in Jinawf, the development aims to significantly enhance the city’s tourism infrastructure and capacity through the construction of world-class hospitality facilities. Additionally, the project promotes the national goal of economic diversification and reinforces Oman’s position as a leading tourism hub regionally and globally, said a WAM news agency report.

 

The project is backed by Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) with a total investment of AED764.5 million, ($208.17 million) underscoring its commitment to enabling key development projects in the tourism sector.

 

The project aligns with the fund’s broader strategy to foster sustainable growth in partner nations through high-impact projects that promote economic diversification and strengthen tourism infrastructure, the report said.

 

The groundbreaking ceremony was attended on the Omani side by Azzan Al Busaidi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Tourism, and the Manager of Dhofar Municipality. Representing Abu Dhabi Fund for Development were Rashid Al Kaabi, Executive Director of the Investment Sector, and Mohammed Al Hamedi, Technical and Admin Support Manager.

 

The first phase of the project spans approximately 604,000 sq m, including the construction of a luxury resort which comprises over 120 rooms and chalets, as well as the developments of the marina, the rehabilitation of coastal and beachfront areas, and the implementation of essential infrastructure works, including roads and public utilities. These integrated components aim to deliver a seamless visitor experience, enhancing Salalah’s tourism profile and contributing significantly to the sector’s sustainable development.

 

Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, stated: “This project is a testament to the deep-rooted strategic ties between the United Arab Emirates and the Sultanate of Oman. It reaffirms ADFD’s ongoing commitment to supporting the development strategies of partner nations through investments that enable economic growth and generate a positive, sustainable impact for local communities. The project also reflects our vision of economic diversification and our proactive approach to advancing sustainable development through meaningful regional partnerships and shared prosperity.”

 

Azzan Al Busaidi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Tourism in Oman, emphasised that the project is expected to create hundreds of direct and indirect job opportunities while stimulating growth across key economic sectors. He added that it will enhance local capabilities through the integration of SMEs in key projects and offering training and capacity-building programmes for Omani nationals in the fields of hospitality and tourism. The initiative aligns with Oman Vision 2040, which positions tourism as a central aspect for economic diversification, particularly in regions with abundant natural resources such as Dhofar.

 

Aligned with ADFD’s strategic investment goals, the project goes beyond enabling Oman’s economic and tourism development. It also will bolster the tourism’s sector’s contribution to Oman’s GDP, generate employment opportunities and support infrastructure development, further solidifying the country's position as a leading tourism hub in the region.