Oman has intensified procurement linked to tourism resorts, marinas and coastal infrastructure as Muscat seeks to expand high-end tourism and diversify economic growth away from hydrocarbons.
The projects include luxury resorts, entertainment facilities and waterfront developments stretching across Muscat, Salalah and the Arabian Sea coastline. Executives involved in the procurement process said authorities were increasingly targeting eco-tourism and premium hospitality markets.
Tourism analysts said Oman’s strategy differed from that of several neighbouring Gulf states by emphasising natural landscapes and cultural heritage rather than large-scale entertainment megaprojects. “Oman is positioning itself as a more authentic and environmentally oriented tourism destination,” said one regional hospitality consultant.
Developers and hotel operators said Oman continued to attract interest from luxury hospitality brands seeking less saturated Gulf markets. Informed sources said additional marina and mountain tourism developments were under consideration.
Commentators believe tourism could become one of Oman’s most important non-oil sectors over the next decade. Additional procurement tied to airports, transport and hospitality infrastructure is expected in coming years.