A tourism festival to be held in Ibri on October 10 will highlight the tourism, heritage, cultural and economic value of the city and the surrounding region.

“Ibri festival is organised by a number of local, public and private institutions, entrepreneurs, small businesses, as well as some volunteer teams,” said an official. He added that the festival will include a number of activities and various tourist events.

Ibri is one of the regional centres in west Oman. It is located 279 kilometres away from the capital city Muscat, and visitors to the Ibri festival can enjoy many traditional and cultural events, chief among them being a camel race.

This authentic Arab sport is especially famous among people residing in the Arabian Peninsula, where camels compete at speeds of up to 64 kilometres per hour on tracks specially built for this kind of race.

Residents of the Sultanate’s capital have been ranked as the happiest people living in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, according to a new survey.

A survey conducted by Bayt.com and YouGov, a global online market research company, entitled, “Top Cities in the Middle East and North Africa,” revealed that Muscat residents are the most happy about their current city of residence at an overall level, with 84 per cent of them stating so.

“Dubai and Abu Dhabi follow Muscat with 78 per cent and 77 per cent, respectively, in terms of overall happiness,” the report stated. It added that residents of Beirut were the least happy, with just short of a third stating their happiness (28 per cent) about their city of residence. Data for the survey was collected online from September 6 to October 2, 2017.

Results are based on a sample of 5,114 respondents and were collected from cities including Algiers, Alexandria, Cairo, Amman, Kuwait City, Beirut, Casablanca, Marrakech, Rabat, Muscat, Damascus, Jeddah, Riyadh, Eastern Province, Tunis, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Manama, and Sharjah.

The report also ranked Muscat as the best city in Middle East in terms of equal treatment of both genders and availability of world heritage sites/preserve old towns. Muscat (68 per cent) was followed by Marrakech (67 per cent).

Muscat also took the lead when it comes to affordability of taxes and fees (if any) at 56 per cent, followed by Doha and Manama (54 per cent and 48 per cent, respectively).

In sports, arts, culture, and recreation factors—Oman’s capital took the top spot in terms of availability of natural areas and natural landscape, with 78 per cent giving it a positive rating in this aspect.

The report also said Muscat and Abu Dhabi are the best cities in terms of equal treatment of both genders (76 per cent and 74 per cent, respectively) followed by Dubai (73 per cent) considering the socio-cultural factors. “When it comes to fair treatment of all nationalities, Muscat emerged as the best city (71 per cent),” the report added.

In terms of environmental factors, Muscat and Abu Dhabi were rated the highest in terms of clean streets and roads, with a vast majority stating so (91 per cent); Dubai (90 per cent) following close behind.

Residents of the Sultanate were quick to agree with the results of the poll.

“One of the friendliest countries in the world, Oman would impress anyone with its excellent roads, beautiful beaches and mountains, many well maintained parks and excellent infrastructure,” said Harish Bala, an Indian expatriate living in Muscat. “Once given a chance to live in Muscat, very few would want to leave unless they had no choice.”

“It changes people’s perceptions of the Middle East, for the better,” added Alex Bradbury, a British expatriate in Oman. “The people are very friendly and will go out of their way to help you. The weather is wonderful. The beaches are clean and family friendly. Everything is open until late and who could not love seeing families sitting in the middle of a roundabout at 11pm having a picnic? Oman and Muscat in particular, is an amazing place. We are lucky to live in this paradise.”

Other residents were also keen to air their views on Muscat.

“Muscat is the cleanest city I’ve visited,” added Filipina Joanne Biraquit Viernes. “Living here is peaceful; it has many beautiful and amazing roads and the people here are friendly and respectful.”

“Oman is a very peaceful second home to many expatriates, and I really love and am thankful what I’ve gotten from here,” said Joginder Singh. “Oman has changed my life. I want to say thank you so much to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, for having made your country such a beautiful place.”

“This country’s modern vision and its timeless traditions make people happy,” revealed Mohammed Rezaul. “It is a beautiful country with beautiful people, and I want to sincerely thank the Sultan of Oman and the Royal Oman Police. There is no politics, and the Omani people very friendly and love everybody. I truly love the Sultanate of Oman.”

Residents in Oman and tourists who visit the Sultanate will soon be able to witness Nizwa Fort in all of its restored glory, with a new agreement signed between the Ministry of Tourism, and developers Omran, looking to make one of the country’s cultural treasures a national icon and world-class tourist hotspot. Under the agreement, Omran will handle the management of Nizwa Fort, and will undertake the promotion and maintenance of the 17th century structure, which has foundations that go back all the way to the 12th century AD. It is the first of many public-private partnerships, which will see the company handle several prestigious monuments dotted across the Sultanate. “This agreement will enhance the Sultanate’s tourism industry, stimulating it to become a key player and contributor to the nation’s economy,” said Hassan Al Lawati, advisor to the Minister of Heritage and Culture for Cultural Affairs. “Building on Nizwa Fort’s appeal as an historical place of interest, Omran’s support with the management, marketing and maintenance will create a new visitor experience that will celebrate local culture and heritage at the highest standards and quality.” One of Oman’s most visited heritage monuments, the new era Nizwa Fort is going to embark on was welcomed by Mohammed Al Mahruqi, board member for Omran, who said, “With the Sultanate’s aims of diversifying the economy, Omran plays a strategic role in creating new destinations and experiences that will benefit the social and economic growth of the Sultanate. This collaboration marks a new era for one of Oman’s treasured sites, and demonstrates the Sultanate’s commitment to finding innovative ways to promote Oman’s unique tourism offering. “The management and rejuvenation of historical sites such as Nizwa Fort will create a unique experience in the region,” he added. The signing of the agreement, which was overseen by the duo in the presence of senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of Finance, is also part of Oman’s Tanfeedh initiative to diversify its economy, with tourism being earmarked as one of the standout areas for growth and development. “Today’s announcement paves the way for the successful investments and the utilisation of Oman’s historical assets to help increase cultural tourism in the Sultanate,” said Peter Walichnowski, CEO of Omran. “At Omran, our aim is to preserve nature, culture, and communities while delivering economic benefits to the country. Job creation “Job creation is inherent across all of our projects and we remain committed to engaging the private sector and Omani SMEs, therefore, Omran intends to outsource the day to day running of the fort to a local SME to provide enhanced facilities and experiences, in support of its intrinsic values of engaging Omani SMEs and encouraging them to play a key role in developing the Sultanate’s flourishing tourism sector,” he added. Located in the city of Nizwa in the A’Dakhiliyah Governorate, Nizwa Fort is one of the country’s oldest and most well-preserved forts, and is a source of pride to locals in the surrounding areas. It is located 160 km from the capital, Muscat, and will take about 90 minutes to reach from the capital.

Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) will turn to a fully fledged energy company over the next decade encompassing hydrocarbon and renewable energy generation and water management, an official from PDO said. The majority state-owned firm has already taken strides in fields of alternate energy with projects such as Glasspoint Miraah and Ras Al Hamra redevelopment and “has a goal to play a major part in Oman’s solar and renewable future.” “Over the next ten years, our operations will still be dominated by oil and gas, nearly 80 per cent of our operations. But we are increasing the percentage in renewable energy and water management. We will become a fully fledged energy company,” Raoul Restucci, Managing Director of PDO said. Several opportunities “There are several opportunities in Oman relating to these sectors. We have to note that 50 per cent of stranded assets in oil and gas will not be monetised due to the rise of these sectors. We need to redefine our businesses and find the sweet spots for growth. The renewable energy sector will drive growth in jobs and solar can contribute to providing for the rising energy requirements in Oman.” In partnership with Glasspoint, PDO has completed the first phase of Miraah, the largest Concentrating Solar Power Plant in the world, to produce steam for Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) at the Amal West oilfield. At full capacity, the plant can produce 6,000 tonnes of steam for EOR purposes reducing requirement for natural gas. PDO is also working to install thousands of solar panels at its headquarters car park at Mina Al Fahal that can power up to 1,000 homes. They recently launched a renewable energy initiative where Omani small and medium enterprises (SMEs) could suggest ideas in the field of renewable energy. The firm has also taken significant initiatives in water production and management. “We need to start capitalising on the opportunities presented by these sectors and create jobs for locals. Our target in the next three years is to create 50,000 jobs outside the oil and gas sector and we are working to achieve this. The private sector in Oman needs to step up and we need to create products in Oman by Omanis and this is what PDO will be focusing on,” Restucci added. According to Fabio Scacciavilani, Chief Economist at Oman Investment Fund, PDO’s gradual transition to an energy company is natural. “We have seen the likes of BP shifting to renewables. They want to be known as an energy company rather than an oil and gas company. The same is true for PDO. They have the means to develop other sources of energy and I believe this is a very important phase,” he further added.

To raise awareness about the critically endangered Arabian Leopard, the Ministry of Tourism (MoT), in collaboration with Husaak Adventures, is organising a 50 kilometre (km) nature walk/run/hiking challenge from September 28 to September 30. Around 120 participants from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are expected to take part in the 50km walk/trek, according to MoT. “This 50km journey will begin from the top of Jebel Samhan, a mountain that rises dramatically to more than a 1,000 metres above the sea level, to the Indian Ocean,” organisers said. Dhofar is looking to become an adventure tourism destination as this region is famed for its wildlife and the high mountains. “The first Arabian Leopard Challenge will be one-of-a-kind experience for all,” said Ali Husain, founder, Husaak Adventures. The trek will also provide an opportunity for participants to learn about unique ecosystems along the path, in addition to experiencing the unique Jebeli culture, and see one of the world’s largest sink holes. “Whether you are a competitive runner or ultra-marathon competitor looking for a unique challenge, or a beginner looking to experience the beauty of nature at your own pace, this will be a fun experience for all. This is a chance for people of all ages and fitness levels to run/walk down Jebal Samhan at their own speed with the presence of experienced Husaak guides and their medical support,” organisers said. “This event is open to everyone, regardless of their fitness level. You can be a super athlete aiming for the full 50 km run or a nature lover, who wants to walk and take photos. There are exit points every 5 km,” they said. The Jabal Samhan Nature Reserve is a nature reserve in Dhofar. It has an area of 4,500 square kilometres (1,700 sq. miles) and has no permanent population. It is one of the last places with wild Arabian leopards. “Experts will also teach the participants about the Arabian leopard,” Husain said. The most important prey species are the Arabian Gazelle, Nubian Ibex, Cape Hare, Rock Hyrax, Indian Crested Porcupine, Desert Hedgehog and several bird species. Occasionally, they might prey on domestic livestock. Other predators, which are found in the reserve, include the Caracal, Striped Hyena and the Arabian Wolf. Working with Oman’s Ministry of Tourism, Husain hopes to raise awareness about the plight of the Arabian Leopard, as well as promote Dhofar as an eco-tourism, adventure and wildlife destination.

‘Thank you Sultan Qaboos,’ was the message from Australia, after one of their own was rescued from Yemen.

Under orders from His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the country assisted in the safe passage home for an Australian citizen, who was reported missing in Yemen. The order came after a request from the Australian government.

According to the Oman News Agency, the Australian citizen was brought to the Sultanate from Yemen on Wednesday morning.

In a statement, Australian Foreign Minister, Julie Bishop said: “I confirm that an Australian kidnapped in Yemen in October last year has been released and is safe and well. I particularly thank His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said for Oman’s work to locate and receive the Australian national

into Oman.”

Bishop said she would provide no further details on the case, in order to protect other Australians who remain captive overseas, or face the risk of kidnapping.

Dr. Ralph King, the Australian non-resident ambassador to Oman expressed, on behalf of the Australian government and the family of the freed citizen, their utmost thanks and gratitude for the noble endeavours of His Majesty the Sultan and the Omani authorities in finding the Australian citizen, who had been missing since October, 2016.

The Australian ambassador affirmed that these efforts reflect the noble humanitarian side and the role carried out by the Sultanate in the region under the wise leadership of His Majesty the Sultan. “These efforts also reflect the deep bilateral relations between the Sultanate and Australia,” he added.

The Australian man was held captive for seven months after he was captured by unnamed assailants last October. The Yemeni authorities found the citizen with the help of the local tribes in the country.

This is not the first time the Sultanate has stepped forward to help those stranded in its western neighbour. Since the conflict began in 2015, Oman has mediated the rescue of many foreign nationals who’ve been unable to leave Yemen.

In October 2016, the Sultanate oversaw the rescue of two American nationals, while in June 2015, the Omani government coordinated with their Yemeni counterparts to rescue more American and Singaporean nationals from the war-torn nation.

But the biggest rescue initiative involving Oman took place in August 2015, when the Indonesian embassy in Muscat confirmed the Sultanate’s hand in the rescue of 2,311 Indonesians from Yemen, 1,831 of whom were evacuated via Oman.

His Majesty’s government has received high praise for their humanitarian efforts to aid those affected by the conflict.

In April 2015, two Indian planes that had been dispatched to rescue Indians stranded in Yemen were given permission to land in Muscat, from where they travelled to Djibouti and then onward to Sana’a.

The nation’s hospitals have also treated many Yemenis, who’ve suffered grievous injuries due to the war that is ravaging their homeland.

A small fishing port on the east coast of Oman, Duqm is undergoing a major transformation to become a superport of the future.

Ambitious plans are underway to turn what was once a fishing village of 10,000 people into one of the Gulf’s busiest seaports and tourism hubs.

With almost $8bn of investment on the horizon, Duqm will transform into a 2,000 square kilometre powerhouse zone driving Oman’s economy forward, according to Ismail Al Balushi, the Deputy Chief Operations Officer of the Special Economic Zone at Duqm. He added that the planned expansion in the port has the potential to beat the best by 2020.

Plans are underway to complete the special economic zone around Duqm by 2020, in accordance with the government’s economic diversification plans, and Al Balushi says the town’s strategic location on the Arabian Sea is what places it ahead of other cities in the region. “We want to give people a choice that is different to Dubai and Abu Dhabi and Duqm could definitely become that. Duqm is good news not only for Oman, but the rest of the Middle East as well,” said Al Balushi, speaking exclusively to the Times of Oman.

“Its location on the open coast of the Arabian Sea means ships that come here don’t have to go all the way to the Strait of Hormuz, which is a very congested waterway in the region.

“We are therefore working with many companies to make sure that this is a reality, because Duqm is very close to the international marine route, and the Arabian Sea links the city to many of the world’s most populous nations, including India, Pakistan and plenty of Africa, so it makes sense for ships and companies to invest here,” he added. To spur on the Sultanate’s ambitious diversification agenda, SEZAD, Duqm’s Special Economic Zone Authority, is targeting three categories: tourism, logistics, and industry.

“We have already built a dry dock and a port in Duqm so that ships can come and deliver their supplies here,” explained Al Balushi. “We’ve spent on infrastructure OMR 2.4 billion and a further industrial investment of OMR 1.3 billion.”

But Al Balushi says that this is only the tip of the iceberg. “The Chinese have planned an investment of OMR 4.2 billion in Duqm, spread across 26 projects, and we also have a joint venture with Kuwait when it comes to an oil refinery which will be operated by Oman Oil,” he added.

“We have earmarked an area of 2,000 square kilometres for the SEZAD, and when it is done, we foresee it contributing to about 5 per cent of Oman’s net Gross Domestic Product.”

Duqm’s rapid growth has also been catalysed by the government’s Tanfeedh initiatives for economic expansion, which were greenlit late last year.

“We are coordinating very closely with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and many other government ministries and organisations who have given us full power to hire talent and skill for the projects which will take place in Duqm,” revealed Al Balushi.

“We have a one-stop station for companies to register for work and industrial permits as well as submit the designs for the projects they will be taking part in, and that makes it very easy for them to contribute to the SEZAD as it helps streamline the process,” he said.

“The area is question is about three to four times the size of some countries in the world and there are plenty of job opportunities available as well: to construct the refinery, for example, will generate 30,000 jobs, while its operation will require another 2,000 jobs,” added Al Balushi.

Duqm SEZAD overview

What is it?

The Special Economic Zone at Duqm is a project established by the Government of Oman under Royal Decree number 119/2011 to diversify the Sultanate’s economy, moving away from its traditional oil and gas-based sources of income.

Investments are expected to top OMR10 billion by 2022.

Where is it?

Duqm is located on the coast of the Arabian Sea, about halfway between the capital, Muscat, and the southern city of Salalah.

It takes about six hours to travel by road, with national transportation authority Mwasalat operating buses between the two cities, while flights from Muscat to Duqm are also available.

The SEZAD is spread over a total area of 2,000 sq.km, of which 800 sq.km have already been developed, with the remaining earmarked for future projects.

What will it have?

SEZAD has been divided into eight areas:

1. Port

2. Dry Dock

3. Oil refineries

4. Airport

5. Heavy, medium and light industries complex

6. Residential and commercial areas

7. Tourism centre

8. Logistics hub

The government of Oman’s vision is to turn Duqm into a logistics, shipping and tourism hub on the Arabian Sea, bypassing the now much-travelled Strait of Hormuz, and saving ships valuable time in traversing that narrow body of water.

In addition, a petrochemical and aquaculture plant have both been planned, with priority given to naturally occurring resources in Al Wusta Governorate.

Due to Duqm’s mild winters and less severe summers, efforts are also underway to boost tourism in the region.

What are the advantages of investing in SEZAD?

1. 100 per cent freehold by foreigners

2. Tax exemption for up to 30 years and renewable for a similar period

3. Easy recruitment of expatriate manpower for projects in the area

4. Issuance of entry visas and residency permits for expatriate manpower and their families, in addition to the facilitation of customs procedures

5. Registration of business and industrial activities

6. Issuing licenses for tourism projects and providing environmental permits

Oman and 20 other member countries at the 20th summit of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) on Tuesday signed the Jakarta Concord, pledging to build a stable, peaceful and prosperous region. Assigned by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos, Dr Yahya bin Mahfoudh al Mantheri, Chairman of the State Council led the Sultanate delegation. In the document “Promoting Regional Cooperation for a Peaceful, Stable, and Prosperous Indian Ocean”, IORA members pledged their commitment to building the Indian Ocean into a stable, well developled region through cooperation in various sectors.

Priorities include promoting maritime security, trade and investment improvement, promote and develop a sustainable and accountable fishery sector, improve the management to anticipate disaster risk, strengthen cooperation on knowledge and science, encouraging tourism industry and cultural exchange, promote ‘blue economy’ drive and improving women’s role in the economy.  In his speech Dr Al Mantheri praised the achievements of IORA and the efforts made to ensure the success and sustainability of IORA.  The Sultanate called for more efforts to address challenges faced by the world, ensure optimum utilisation of the natural and human resources and enhance cooperation among IORA members to achieve the aims and objectives of IORA leaders and peoples towards more prosperity and welfare. — ONA