Plan to build new integrated tourism complex at Quriyat
MUSCAT: Oman will soon have a new Integrated Tourism Complex (ITC) along the eastern coast of Quriyat, which has been labelled the first freehold ITC project since 2010.
The development falls under the 2040 tourism strategy framework, along with the National Programme for Enhancing Economic Diversification called “Tanfeedh.”
Quriyat’s Tourism Complex will have a nine-hole golf course, three hotels, commercial and residential complexes, along with a marina.
Ahmed bin Nasser bin Hamad Al Mehrzi, Minister of Tourism, said funding for the development will come from the private sector.
“The project will be completed in three phases in a total of 15 years. All of the development cost is coming through the private sector. It is a part of the Tanfeedh project, which will be built around clusters to give a better Omani experience. We are expecting to open a four star hotel during phase one, but have not decided the operator yet,” the minister said.
The Chief Executive Officer of Al Madina Real Estate—the main project developer— Abdulrahman Barham outlined the benefits of development for those already living in the area and the strategic location.
Broad goals
“The project was designed to achieve a broad number of goals economically and socially. It will significantly boost Quriyat’s presence on the tourism map in Muscat, which in turn will greatly benefit the citizens of Quriyat. The development will deliver secure jobs opportunities in three phases, either directly or indirectly, and priority will be given to the youth of Quriyat, as well as to SMEs,” Barham said.
The complex will cover a total area of 1,282,300 square metres and has an estimated total budget of OMR385 million. The development is planned to be implemented in three five- year phases, with OMR100 million allocated for just the first phase. The first phase is expected be completed and operational by 2021.