MUSCAT: In a grand event on Tuesday, Dar Global — a luxury international real estate developer — led by CEO Ziad El Chaar, unveiled the much-anticipated $500 million Trump International Oman in Aida, Oman. Launched under the auspices of His Highness Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham al Said, Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth, the project is one of the most integrated and complete in Oman and marks a significant milestone in the region's luxury real estate and tourism sectors.
Presenting the project, Ziad El Chaar emphasised its unique blend of design and functionality. “With all respect to other projects in Oman, this stands out in terms of integration and completeness. The Trump International Golf Club, one of the largest in the region, alongside an expansive members-only club, sets a new standard,” he remarked in an interview with Oman Observer.
Understanding that only a small percentage of people play golf or can afford a golf membership, Dar Global has introduced a novel concept called social membership. This allows every property owner in Aida access to the club, broadening the appeal of the development.
“Luxury means low density,” El Chaar added, underscoring the project's commitment to providing an exclusive environment with international brands that attract a global clientele. So far, investors from 60 different nationalities have committed to the project, drawn by its unique blend of natural beauty and strategic location.
Eric Trump, Executive Vice President of The Trump Organisation, highlighted the collaborative effort behind this ambitious project. “In collaboration with Dar Global, we are proud to launch The Trump International Oman in Aida, Oman as we introduce a new era of style, service, and exclusivity infused with the renowned Trump standard of excellence to the region. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to crafting iconic luxury experiences for discerning travellers and investors, while also enhancing Oman's profile as a premier destination on the global stage,” he said.
Launched 13 months ago, the project is progressing swiftly. Phase one, primarily residential units, is nearly sold out and scheduled for delivery within 30 months.
Phase two, which includes the hotel and additional villas, is set to be completed within 36 months. The golf course design will soon be finalised and awarded separately, ensuring it meets the highest standards. The overall development is planned to unfold over ten years, divided into ten phases. “The focus is to succeed with this site first before considering expansion,” El Chaar explained.
Building on a site characterised by mountains, valleys, limestone, and marble presented significant challenges. “We wanted to preserve the natural topography without cutting into the valleys,” El Chaar noted. The design was meticulously planned to respect the natural landscape, a task accomplished by a skilled team that has successfully finalised the master plan and golf course design.
The decision to develop in Oman was influenced by the broader economic landscape of the GCC. El Chaar views the region as a unified economic entity, similar to Italy with its multiple thriving cities. “The economy of the GCC is $2 trillion, comparable to Italy. We can have Muscat, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Jeddah and Riyadh all thriving within this single economy,” he stated.
Environmental sustainability is a core principle for Dar Global. “We follow 100% the environmental impact rules of every country we operate in,” El Chaar affirmed. While the project may not necessarily pursue LEED certification, it adheres strictly to local codes.
The project has attracted a diverse range of buyers from around the world, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Iraq, Iran, Bulgaria, Poland, Romania, Croatia, the UK, the USA, and Saudi Arabia. This diversity reflects the international allure of the development.
Looking ahead, El Chaar highlighted the need for improved air connectivity to support tourism growth in Oman. “International investors prefer direct flights. We need more flights from key destinations like China, the US, and the UK,” he suggested.
With the launch of Phase Two, Dar Global is well on its way to transforming Aida into a premier luxury destination. The project’s comprehensive, phased approach ensures that each element is meticulously planned and executed, promising a transformative impact on Oman's real estate and tourism landscape.
Developed in partnership with the Trump Organisation and as a joint venture with Omran Group, the executive arm of the Sultanate of Oman for tourism development, Aida is built on a more than 130-metre-high hilltop, surrounded by rocky canyons, endless beaches, and breathtaking panoramas.
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