Al Mouj Muscat welcomes 3.9 million visitors annually and through outstanding leisure experiences, the Sultanate of Oman’s first Integrated Tourism Complex (ITC) is delivering on its promise of developing tourism in the Sultanate, thus contributing to major economic growth.
Al Mouj Muscat, a world-class destination, attracts local, regional and international tourists through its award-winning golf course, lively marina and an array of oceanfront culinary experiences. This comprehensive destination is home to leaders in the hospitality industry with international hotel names basing their properties in the heart of the mixed-use destination.
Hotels are a key feature of Al Mouj’s sophisticated tourism infrastructure, with two international hotels now operational, the Kempinski Hotel Muscat and Mysk by Shaza that together, offer 582 rooms. As well, the 5-star St. Regis Resort is in opening phase and set to offer 440 rooms, along with the Al Mouj Rayhaan by Rotana which will have 251 rooms. Three additional hotels are in planning phase and with a total of seven hotels on project completion, the total number of rooms and suites available will rise to over 2,000.
Carsten Wiegandt (pictured) is the General Manager of the Kempinski Hotel Muscat which opened its doors in 2018. Kempinski Hotels is Europe’s oldest luxury hotel group and Carsten explains why Al Mouj was the right location for the brand: “Al Mouj Muscat has created the perfect balance of authentic Omani hospitality, memorable leisure experiences and lifestyle aspiration. Our travellers tell us that they appreciate the natural beauty of Oman, and that Al Mouj offers a true sense of community. This environment is unique, and I am confident that it will attract growing numbers of regional and international visitors.” Al Mouj Golf is a travel and tourism success story in its own right, with the Greg Norman-designed course earning global recognition as a World 100 championship course and consistently being placed in the top two in the Middle East owing to its exceptional playing attributes and magnificent oceanside setting. As well, it is the nation’s first PGA course and has hosted the Oman Open, a European Tour golf tournament, for three years and is on the European Tour.
Building on its popularity with local golfers, across the Middle East and internationally, the club is investing in a series of major facility and building upgrades that will lift the playing experience even higher. Given the estimated total economic impact per annum of golf travel to Oman has the potential to exceed RO 1.7 million, Al Mouj is confident it will play a major part in driving interest, helping to develop the sector further.
Another jewel in Al Mouj’s crown is its show-stopping Gold Anchor marina which surrounded by luxury residences, is also expanding and upon completion will accommodate 400 berths. It provides an unrivalled setting for yacht owners and boating enthusiasts, who have a superb team of experienced Marina staff and support services at their disposal.
In addition to being able to welcome more vessels, Al Mouj Marina established the marine tourism industry and is currently home to 17 sea tour operators. These local independent enterprises benefit from the vibrant destination’s footfall and overall support for them has been instrumental in growing the highly popular area of marine tourism.
Sailing, diving and snorkelling enthusiasts are well-served by the accredited businesses that are strategically located in the vibrant destination. Al Mouj Muscat’s supportive and pioneering approach has both created jobs and resulted in over 1,850 marine tour trips departing annually from the marina.
Nasser bin Masoud al Sheibani, CEO of Al Mouj Muscat, adds: “Tourism is a key pillar of Oman Vision 2040 as it boosts job creation, in-country spend and creates new avenues for enterprise. Since inception, we have seen the development and growth of the sector through the attraction of world renowned hotel chains, championship golf course, award winning marina and exceptional culinary experiences, bringing in tourists from around the world.
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