A Quarterly magazine issued by the Special Economic Zone Authority at Duqm 6th Issue - October 2016
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Editorial
Investment-Stimulating Environment
The sixth issue of Duqm Economist coincides with the celebration of the Forty-Sixth National Day, this dear occasion to our hearts, which Yahya Bin Said Al Jabri has written a new history of Oman and renewed the cultural glories General Supervisor achieved by Omanis over thousands of years. While celebrating this auspicious occasion, the Authority of the Special Economic Zone (SEZAD) presents to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, may Allah protect him, its sincere congratulations and prays to Allah Almighty to save His Majesty in good health and wellness. SEZAD also prays to Allah to maintain Oman safe and stable and achieve for the Omani people the glory they strive for under the wise leadership of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said. Based on the foundations laid by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said to build a strong and stable economy, SEZAD has been keen, since its inception on 26 October 2011, to provide a stimulating environment for local and foreign investment. It is appropriate to point out here that Based on the this year witnessed many activities in this framework. In May, SEZAD signed the Cooperation, Usufruct, and Development Agreement with foundations laid the Chinese side for the construction of the Sino-Omani Industrial City by His Majesty in Duqm. Wan Fang Oman began its work in SEZD immediately after Sultan Qaboos the signing of the agreement asserting that its investments in Duqm will amount to about USD 10.7 billion. Last June, SEZAD granted Karwa bin Said to build a Motors the land usufruct to build a car assembly plant with joint Omani- strong and stable Qatari investment estimated at OMR 160 million. economy, SEZAD This year also saw attracting a variety of investments from domestic and foreign private sector, including the construction of an international has been keen, school, logistics services center, hotels and tourist facilities, malls, since its inception amusement and water parks, in addition to other projects. on 26 October Complementing the remaining work in Duqm Port, SEZAD signed the agreements of the third and fourth packages of this vital project. 2011, to provide SEZAD also assigned advisory services contract for the preparation of a stimulating the detailed scheme of New Duqm City, which focuses on strengthening environment for urban planning standards within SEZD borders. local and foreign This year has also witnessed the operation of Boeing 737 aircraft on Muscat-Duqm route to provide additional seats for passengers. investment Moreover, SEZAD signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Oman Arab Bank (OAB) under OAB will facilitate funding for private sector companies and establishments to execute their projects in SEZD. This is one of the MoUs signed by SEZAD with the commercial banks and their Islamic windows during the past two years. There are many actions taken by SEZAD to attract investments and create the enabling environment for their growth pursuant to the Royal directives of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, may Allah protect him, to achieve economic diversification, attract foreign investments, and provide an appropriate environment for private sector investment. May Allah grant us success!
October 2016 5 In this issue:
Quarterly Magazine on Economic Affairs and Free Zones
Issued by: Special Economic Zone Authority Duqm (SEZAD) Duqm.. a General supervisor touristic Yahya bin Said bin Abdullah Al-Jabri destination resting on Chairperson of the Supervisory Committee the ocean´s
Ismail bin Ahmed Al-Balushi shores
Editor-in-Chief Mohammed bin Ahmed Al-Shezawi 13 Editors:
Saleh bin Nabhan Al-Ma’amari
Correspondence and advertising in the name of the Editor-in-Chief to:
P.O. Box: 25 Postal Code: 103, Bareeq Al-Shatti, Oman
Tel: 0096824507572 /0096824507540 A study to conduct charter flights to Duqm Fax: 0096824587400 17
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.duqm.gov.om
The views expressed in the magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the magazine.
The magazine welcomes specialized research and ROP provides all facilities for SEZD academic studies 18
October 6 2016 The SEZAD highlights the environmental The hospitality sector seeks to place Duqm aspects of “Wadhah Initiative” 48 on the map of local and international tourism 31
Repair of 38 vessels in the first seven months of 2016 46
Ismailsmail bbinin AAl-Balushi:l Bal shi DDuqm qm is a MohamedMohamed AlkhonjiAlkhonji: Mehdihdi AAll AAbduwani:bd ani Operation of a perfect destination for relaxation Construction work in Duqm maritime line route between Muscat and enjoying the beaches project starts next year and Duqm is part of the company’s plan to link 12 local ports 14 22 26
October 2016 7 One-Stop Shop Your Gate to Investment at SEZAD
One-stop Shop is the department concerned with registering investors and issuing required different licenses, permits and approvals. One-stop Shop provides the following services:
Preparing Completing rent Issuing Commercial, Preparing Issuing Providing contracts and usufruct and all types of regulating the municipal industrial, technical manpower license and tourism and reports and development visa-related relation between permits the owners of the construction environmental issuing agreements services property and the registration approvals tenants licenses
Special Economic Zone Authority at Duqm Phone: +968 24507500 P.O. Box 25, Postal Code 103, Bareeq Al Shatti Website: www.duqm.gov.om Fax: +968 24587400 Email: [email protected]
It covers 150 square kilometers including five different districts Consultancy Services Agreement Signed for Detailed Master Planning of Duqm City
Duqm - : and when to develop in sync with the market requirements. This will enable the government The Special Economic Zone Authority of Oman to ultimately reduce infrastructure of Duqm (SEZAD) today awarded the cost by applying smart planning principals consultancy services for the detailed master and designing the required infrastructures to planning, market and feasibility study, design attract both local and international investors and preparation of tender documents for the to cater to the needs of the future population development of Duqm City Phase (1) to WS of Duqm City. Plan Atkins International. WS Atkins International & Co shall be The contract was signed on behalf of the lead consultant to work hand in hand focuses on the Authority by H.E Yahya bin Said al- with the urban planning and engineering strengthen- Jabri, Chairman of Board of Directors of the department of SEZAD and many other ing urban Authority whereas on behalf of the company related departments, authorities and var- by Marco G. Malpiedi, General Manager of ious stakeholders in the development of planning the company in the Sultanate. Duqm. The lead consultant will be joined standards In an effort to continue the development of by sub-consultants, such as Deloitte, Five and Duqm City and to enhance the standards in Oceans Environmental Services, Kamel relations to urban planning within the Zone, Establishment, Driver Consult and Design considers SEZAD carries on the details on the initial Urban. the future concept master plan for Duqm City, which The first phase of this project shall be develop- was completed in 2014. This will enable the divided in 4 stages and last 30 weeks and Authority to provide a sound and a detail shall start this October. This study will ment of the plan as to how it wishes to develop the include the detailed master plan of Duqm city future city of Duqm, which represents a total City, a market study and technical feasibility area of 150 square kilometers. This area study, a strategic environmental assessment, is comprised of 5 distinct neighborhoods sustainability assessment, concept design inclusive of existing and upcoming with engineering fit, tourism strategy, transport residential, commercial, mixed-use, logistic master plan, drainage master plan and so and tourism developments. much more. Detailed Master Planning the future city The SEZAD looks forward to develop of Duqm is critical to the development of this exemplary detailed master plan for the the infrastructures and understanding how future city of Duqm.
October 10 2016 SEZAD Boundary Detailed Master Plan Study Area
Rail Alignment Proposed Railway
Masterplan Land Use High Density Residential Medium Density Residential Low Density Residential Mixed Use Residential Worker Accommodation Civil Zone Commercial Showrooms To u ri sm Light Tourism Coastal Preservation Coastal Setback Rock Garden Rock Garden Boundary Park Gateway Park Highlands Park Escarpment Park Escarpment Ridge Airport Plateau Wadi Cemetery Heavy Industry Medium Industry Light Industry Road Corridor Utility Corridor Built And Committed Projects Renewable Energy Natural Ground
Date: 8/9/2015 Map No. 201507301B Scale: 1:75,000
0500 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 Figure 3. Al Duqm City Master P la n w it h Z o n i n g Meters WGS 1984 UTM Zone 40N Produced by: SEZAD GIS Section C:\2015\for TRANSPORT STUDY\201507301A_TRANSPORT.mxd
October 2016 11 Wan Fang Oman prepares for the first phase of Sino-Omani Industrial City
Preparation of detailed schemes of main and secondary roads
Duqm - : the three projects by the end of 2017. Funding the projects of Sino-Omani Wan Fang Oman began to pave the Industrial City will be from Chinese banks workers’ housing site in the Sino-Omani and investors. Industrial City in Duqm upon the arrival The Sino-Omani Industrial City in Duqm of an initial set of drilling and settlement includes three main categories of projects. equipment in preparation for the start of The first will be on an area of approximately the Sino-Omani Industrial City project over divisible 870 hectares and will be for heavy an area of 1,172 hectares equivalent to industries and areas of medium, light, and (11.7) square kilometers. mixed use. The second category will be Wan Fang Oman stated that it works on an area of about indivisible 10 hectares with SEZAD to finalize the detailed allocated for a tourism project. The third schemes for the first phase of the project category will be on an area of about 292 on an area of about one million square me- hectares allocated for the creation of a ters, indicating that the first phase would petrochemical industry complex and an oil include the detailed schemes of the main refinery with a capacity of approximately and secondary roads. It also includes 230 thousand barrels per day. Wan Fang schemes of the area of light and medium Oman is the main investor in the project industries, residential and commercial ar- and the party responsible for operation eas, and logistics and offices area. The and maintenance of the infrastructure on company schedules to carry out the first of site.
Schemes of light and medium industries area underway
October 12 2016 DDuqmuqm - : a touristic
TThehe WillayatWillayat ofof DuqmDuqm isis locatedlocated onon a coastalcoastal stripstrip onon thethe AArabrab SeaSea openopen toto thethe IndianIndian OceanOcean andand isis aboutabout 550550 kmkm destination ffromrom MMuscatuscat Governorate.Governorate. DuqmDuqm isis oneone ofof thethe WillayatsWillayats ooff AAll WWustausta GGovernorateovernorate andand isis distinguisheddistinguished byby thethe richrich ffisheriesisheries andand oiloil resources.resources. resting on TThehe WillayatWillayat ofof Duqm,Duqm, knownknown forfor itsits beautifulbeautiful beach-beach- eess andand moderatemoderate weather,weather, isis anan idealideal touristtourist destinationdestination fforor tthosehose lookinglooking forfor tranquilitytranquility andand peacepeace ofof mindmind duringduring the ocean´s ssummerummer wherewhere thethe temperaturetemperature dropsdrops toto asas lowlow asas 25°C.25°C. TThehe wilayatwilayat hashas a numbernumber ofof beautifulbeautiful andand virginvirgin beachesbeaches tthehe mostmost n notableotable ofof whichwhich isis AlAl Shuwaier.Shuwaier. RasRas MadrakaMadraka shores bbeach,each, 8080 kkmm aawayway ffromrom thethe wwilayatilayat CCenter,enter, iiss alsoalso oneone ooff tthehe mainmain touristtourist destinationdestination forfor thosethose interestedinterested inin campingcamping bbesideeside thethe beachfrontbeachfront overlookingoverlooking thethe ArabianArabian Sea.Sea. CComplimentedomplimented byby thethe availabilityavailability ofof variousvarious touristictouristic rresources,esources, SEZADSEZAD hashas takentaken a numbernumber ofof initiativesinitiatives toto ccreatereate anan environmentenvironment thatthat isis conduciveconducive forfor thethe growthgrowth ofof ttourismourism investments.investments. BBesidesesides thethe beaches,beaches, softsoft sandssands andand mountainmountain chainschains ooverlookingverlooking thethe ArabianArabian SeaSea suchsuch asas RasRas alal Duqm,Duqm, RasRas MMarkaz,arkaz, andand RasRas Madraka,Madraka, thethe wilayatwilayat ofof DuqmDuqm hashas manymany ootherther attractionsattractions suchsuch asas thethe rocksrocks park,park, whichwhich hostshosts a nnumberumber ofof geologicallygeologically rarerare rocksrocks thatthat portrayportray togethertogether a uuniquenique andand charmingcharming picturepicture ofof culture.culture. IIn-linen-line withwith thethe growinggrowing importanceimportance ofof thethe tourismtourism sectorsector aandnd thethe expectedexpected rolerole itit willwill playplay inin realizingrealizing thethe aspirationsaspirations ooff tthehe nnation,ation, SEZADSEZAD hashas preparedprepared a mastermaster planplan forfor thethe ttourism,ourism, businessbusiness andand serviceservice areasareas insideinside thethe urbanurban areaarea wwithinithin thethe urbanurban areaarea atat thethe coastalcoastal strip.strip. A numbernumber ofof aareasreas ofof differentdifferent sizessizes willwill bebe providedprovided underunder thisthis projectproject ttoo i investorsnvestors withwith interestinterest inin settingsetting upup hotelshotels andand beachbeach rresorts.esorts. SSEZADEZAD iiss aalsolso makingmaking endeavorsendeavors toto improveimprove andand ddiversifyiversify meansmeans ofof accessaccess toto thethe area.area. ItIt hashas completedcompleted tthehe constructionconstruction andand operationoperation ofof DuqmDuqm domesticdomestic airport,airport, wwhichhich startedstarted earlyearly operationoperation onon 2323 JulyJuly 20142014 toto connectconnect MMuscatuscat toto DDuqmuqm throughthrough fourfour flightsflights perper week.week. MMoreover,oreover, SEZADSEZAD isis completingcompleting thethe worksworks toto operateoperate tthehe cruisecruise shipsships andand seasea transporttransport dock,dock, whichwhich willwill bebe partpart ooff tthehe ppublicublic berthberth atat DuqmDuqm port.port. AtAt thethe samesame time,time, SEZADSEZAD iiss conductingconducting a numbernumber ofof campaignscampaigns toto promotepromote thethe ppotentialsotentials ofof thethe area.area. ToTo thisthis end,end, itit inkedinked dealsdeals withwith tourtour ooperatorsperators inin OmanOman andand outsideoutside toto increaseincrease thethe numbernumber ofof ttouristsourists visitingvisiting DuqmDuqm andand enhanceenhance thethe occupancyoccupancy raterate atat hhotelsotels throughoutthroughout thethe year.year.
October 2016 13 Ismail bin Ahmed Al-Balushi interview with the
Duqm is a perfect destination for relaxation and enjoying the beaches
fishermen in a trip at sunset
Interviewer: Saleh Al-Mamari
Ismail bin Ahmed Al-Balushi the Deputy CEO in the Duqm Special Economic Zone Authority announced that the area had attracted till end of September 2016 touristic investments worth 766 million Omani Rials, pointing that the number of existing and under construction and approved touristic projects is of 16 project including hotels of 3, 4 and 5 stars, hotel apartments, resorts and varied touristic establishments including restaurants, clubs, cafeterias, shops, water parks, apartments and residential villas. In an exclusive statement to he said that touristic factors existing in the area has already attract several local and foreign investors, assuring that the Duqm Special Economic Zone has worked on providing a convenient environment to increase the touristic investments in the zone.
October 14 2016 Attracting touristic investment A touristic area and a seafront will be welcoming touristic tours once all the worth 766 The complete plan of the Duqm Special adjoining facilities are completed, in addition Economic Zone consists of a number of to the terrestrial road which connect Duqm million varied investment areas including a touristic with the rest of the Sultanate’s governance.” Rials area of 26 square meters. Ismail bin Ahmed Al-Balushi said that the Authority works on Optimistic investors providing the zone with all infrastructure Regarding the investors’ vision, Al-Balushi facilities like electricity, water, roads and said: “we sensed during our visits and partic- telecommunications. The touristic areas has ipation in local and international events, the a seafront that extent to 19 kilometers, in investors’ interest in the zone which enjoys addition to the plan of constructing a public relative and competitive advantages that beach on a large area suitable for different qualifies it to become a touristic destination kind of beach and water activities to meet the during the coming period of time.” Creating a needs of residents and visitors, and creating And he added: “There is a satisfaction and convenient entertainment, relaxation and camping areas, interest of local and international investors in all that comes as a part of the urban planning the touristic area and the geological location environ- programs of the touristic area in Duqm. of Duqm. They expressed their wish to extend ment to their works in this side and take advantage of A continuous growth in the touristic sector the area and the moderate weather.” increase The Deputy CEO of the Duqm Special And he emphasized that the area is witness- touristic Economic Zone Authority assured in his in- ing an increasing demand on investment in the terview that “the area has already achieved hotel sectors, as a consequence of several el- environ- many gains within the touristic sector in the ements, mainly the investment climate and the ment in the Sultanate and contributed in investing capitals easiness of submitting an application adding locally, in addition to attracting foreign compa- that the area will witness an economical growth zone nies to work in the Sultanate. It also contribut- during the upcoming years, pointing that there ed in stimulating economic growth in Al-Wusta are currently 3 hotels in Duqm, notwithstand- Governance generally and in Duqm particu- ing that achieving the objective growth requires larly; describing that the Airport of Duqm was constructing new hotel establishments. inaugurated in 23rd July 2014 has facilitated the passengers transportation between Duqm Hiring Omani youth and Muscat, just as the Port of Duqm which And in regards of hiring Omani youth in
26 square kilometers is the touristic zone’s area
October 2016 15 Rocks Garden
The touristic touristic projects, Ismail Al-Balushi said: “the commercial activities and a perfect destina- Authority in coordination with the Ministry of tion for relaxation and enjoying the beaches.” area has a Manpower and companies of the sector, are He added: “the strategy suggested the sea front all trying to give a priority to the youth to work development of touristic complexes area in the touristic and hotel industry. As part of in Duqm during the upcoming years, these that extent it, the Committee of Developing Local Com- touristic complexes are one of the basic to 19 munities has previously financed scholar- components of the tourism development ships for the hospitality and touristic sector. plan recommended by the Omani Strategy kilometers Also, the Authority through the Department of for Tourism, along with having the needed Social Responsibility has constantly tried to infrastructure for visitors, which is considered involve the youth of Al-Wusta Governance in as an attracting element in addition to provide educational program for them to be easier to well managed special activities, services and get jobs in this sector.” facilities.” Providing He added: “the Authority has already gone far in the social responsibility aspect to devel- Promoting and marketing scholar- op the youth’s skills to make it easier for them About the Authority’s efforts in promoting ships and to enter the job market. Those programs are and marketing the area, Al-Balushi said: “in continuous and were met with acceptance the first half of 2016, we have executed a training and success. marketing touristic program with the aim of programs promoting it locally and regionally, and collab- No delays in projects orating with touristic tours organizers on both to encour- And in regards of the effect of the current levels, locally and regionally, to increase the age the economic situation and the fluctuations of number of incoming tourists along with the youth to petroleum prices on touristic investments in hotel occupancy rate all year long.” Duqm, Ismail bin Ahmed Al-Balushi said: “the He added: “the Authority represented by work in the area is not isolated from the rest of the world the Marketing Department has prepared a touristic and it is affected by the surrounding econom- proposal to start exhibiting tours to Duqm in ic and politic circumstance. Nevertheless, the collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism so sector Authority is still executing infrastructure proj- Duqm might become one of the promising ects which are considered as an engine for destinations to the exhibiting tours from dif- the touristic investment in the zone. Assuring ferent countries of the world. That is through that the Authority has a Tender Committee identifying the zone’s economic potentials which was never late in awarding projects or and logistic capabilities to accommodate delaying any planned project.” this kind of tours. Also identifying the most important future touristic projects that will A preposi- The Omani Strategy for Tourism be constructed in the zone, in addition to tion to start Ismail bin Ahmed Al-Balushi praised the that the Marketing Department is focusing Omani strategy for tourism 2040 saying: on attracting local and foreign investment to exhibiting “Duqm has achieved a distinguished place construct touristic resorts that serve the ex- tours to in the Strategy which considered Duqm as a pected touristic movement during the coming promising entrance to the Sultanate and for period of time.” Duqm in coopera- tion with the Ministry of Tourism
October 16 2016 A study to conduct charter flights to Duqm
Muscat - Saleh Al-Mamari : submit a proposal to make SEZD one of the most promising destinations for char- A study confirmed that conducting char- ter tourism from various world countries ter flights to SEZD would contribute to the through the identification of SEZD poten- Conduct- revitalization of tourism investments there. tials and logistics capabilities to accom- ing charter Charter flight is a term used to refer to modate this kind of flights as well as he flights rent for tourist groups. Companies most important future tourism projects flights will rents private jet to reach the required des- there. They agreed as well developing a promote tination in specific seasons. They take this promotion mechanism to attract local and name because of the lack of regular lines foreign investments to establish tourist tourism in- or dates like regular flights. Charter flights resorts that serve tourist traffic expected vestments provide low-cost programs and packages during the next phase. that include tickets, hotel accommodation, and tours. Therefore, the success of char- Creating new jobs ter flights depends on the presence of ad- According to the study, this type of vance group bookings preceded by inten- tourism will provide job opportunities for sive promotional efforts. Omani youth by expanding the work of trip The study, prepared by SEZAD in col- organizing companies that will increase laboration with the Ministry of Tourism, the number of its employees to provide confirmed that conducting charter flights the best services for tourists, coordinate to SEZD would contribute to the promo- trips, make hotel reservations, prepare tion of tourism investment and stimulate tour programs, and operating additional the hotel sector and other sectors related bus services. Charter tourism will also Creating new to tourism sector, such as land transport raise the demand for tourist guides hence jobs and and aviation. It also indicated that that the benefit of the local community from the conducting charter flights to SEZD would tourist traffic. stimulation create a variety of tourist segments and of hotel hence diversity in the purchasing value Recommendations from tourism. The study recommended the invitation sector The importance of the charter tourism of charter companies to visit SEZD to get lies in promoting and publicizing tourism to know it closely. It also recommend- destinations located far from the major ed the participation in the events related cities. It is also one of the most important to charter tourism outside the Sultanate means employed by States wishing to de- and implement promotional campaigns velop the tourism sector, promoting them- in the world media while providing some selves as attractive tourist destinations financial support initially to attract these throughout the year, and trying to increase companies. The study also indicated the the number of tourists through operating significance of implementing awareness charter flights directly from the tourist ex- campaigns for tourism establishments and porting countries. This method contributes the local community on the importance Recommen- in promoting the new tourism destinations and benefit of this type of tourism. and promote tourism investments there. The study indicated that there are dation to needs to be provided to charter compa- invite com- Meetings with Ministry of Tourism nies, such as the presence of an inter- Given the importance of charter tour- national airport so that they can operate panies to ism, the relevant officers in SEZAD held charter flights directly between the various visit SEZD to several meetings with the stakeholders in countries and Oman. Add to this providing the Ministry of Tourism during the current exceptional support for these companies, get to know year to discuss conducting charter flights such as reduction or cancellation of land- it closely and maximize the unique tourism poten- ing fees at airports, ground services, and tials of SEZD. visa fees along with discounted rates by The two sides agreed that they would hotels, restaurants, and tour companies.
October 2016 17 Hilal Al-Busaidi, Director General of Passports and Residence ROP provides all facilities for SEZD
Interviewed by Saleh Al-Mamari :
Obtaining a visa to visit any country in the world goes through several stages and a series of security measures. Therefore, the authorities concerned with issuance of vi- sas seek to facilitate the process in terms of procedures and period. For further clarification on the issuance of work and res- idence visas related to SEZD, we met with Colonel Hilal bin Ahmed Al-Busaidi, Director General of Passports and Residence, Royal Oman Police. In an exclusive interview to , he sheds light on many aspects in this regard in pursuit of realizing the desired goals of the establishment of SEZD and facilitating investors and businesspersons’ flow to it.
Duqm Police Complex offers varied services
October 18 2016 Investor visa issued on the same day
Provision of services to citizens at Duqm Police Station
E-visa Investor visa Royal Oman Police has sought to provide all facilities to SEZD to achieve its desired project Royal Oman Police offers the service objectives. It has opened its service center in of issuing visas for investors in SEZD. Duqm, which offers a variety of services to will enable What are the procedures of investor visa? the investors in SEZD, such as issuing visas, investors How long does it usually take for issuance? renewal of residence cards, issuing ID cards, As is known to all, foreign investment in the and other services. to apply Sultanate relates to several bodies, including online the Royal Oman Police, represented by this Family visas Directorate General, whose role complements the roles of these bodies. Once the foreign How do you handle investors’ re- investor has completed the preliminary pro- quests wishing to bring their fami- cedures with other government agencies, the lies to SEZD? Are there any conditions procedures for obtaining an investor visa are for that? easy and do not take much time. We issue Regarding family visas, they are available some of them on the same day, which in itself for the expatriate who works in the Sultan- is a great facility. ate under certain controls, most notably he should have a senior job, such as physician, E-visa engineer, lawyer, or the like, or a technical profession, such as a mechanic, electrician, No obsta- What are the electronic services ROP and the like. His minimum monthly salary cles on provides to investors? Do they include should be (OMR 600) so that he can provide e-visa? How long does it take? a decent life for his family. He should also issuing The e-visa project is underway and once have a lease in his name to provide an ap- visas and completed, all applicants, including of course propriate accommodation for the family. investors, can apply online for visa without the As for the people who are eligible to receive focus on need to go to the General Directorate of Pass- a family visa, they are the first-degree rela- achieving ports and Residence. tives, such as wife, children of not more 21 balance in years old, and the parents, provided either of Numerous facilities them is of the care age. the expa- As for the visit visas, they are available to triate labor Are there certain features offered to in- the expatriate’s relatives on a case-by-case vestors in SEZD? basis. force com- position
October 2016 19 Express visa in the least time possible and tourism visa directly from the entry checkpoint An expatriate receives residence services at Duqm Police Station
There are no obstacles Marketing the Sultanate abroad There are some nationalities not eligi- Is there any coordination between ble for visas. However, if there are Royal Oman Police and government high-worth investors that can benefit na- agencies concerned with marketing the tional economy from these nationalities, Sultanate abroad? how do you deal with that? There is a continuous coordination with oth- In fact, there are no obstacles or reservations. er government agencies. Royal Oman Police The issue is that there is a regulation of work also markets the services it provides while oth- visas in terms of the nationalities appropriate er government agencies undertake their roles to fill specific functions and professions from in their respective fields. various labor-exporting countries. Therefore, this Directorate General has the duty to mind Facilities for investors a number of considerations and find some kind of balance in the composition of the expatriate In light of the Sultanate’s efforts to labor force in the Sultanate taking into account increase foreign investment in the the circumstances surrounding each country, country, what are the facilities Royal Oman Sultanate which of course cast a shadow on visa con- Police provides in this aspect? ditions. There is no doubt that the authorities con- is keen to cerned in the Sultanate are keen to provide the create an Express visa favorable climate for investors. Royal Oman Police spares no effort to simplify the proce- enabling In some cases, some foreign compa- dures that will encourage the flow of capital into climate for nies need a short visit to inspect SEZD. the Sultanate. There are investment controls How do you deal with these applications? that clarify the role of each entity. As the in- investors How much time do they take to have a visa? vestment activity relates to several authorities, and our The foreign investors who want to conduct including Royal Oman Police, represented by quick visits to inspect SEZD can come to the this Directorate General, the role of this Direc- role com- Sultanate either by applying for an express torate General is complementary to the roles of plements visa through one of the companies operating in these authorities through its employee at the the Sultanate or through a tourist visa if the in- one-stop shop at the Ministry of Commerce other gov- vestor holds a nationality eligible to tourist visa. and Industry, who is in charge of issuing visas ernment The express visa takes the least possible time, for investors. Issuance of some of these visas while he can get the tourism visa directly from takes place on the same day, which is a great agencies the entry checkpoint. facility per se.
October 20 2016 Misbah Qutb An Egyptian writer specialized in economic affairs [email protected]
Tourism in Duqm and the alliance with the evening
I know the advantages - or at least some of the advantages night in zones of desert and mountainous backgrounds. I of Oman tourism, because I have already visited it many attended many dinner parties in open areas in the depth times, and lived days in Muscat and Salalah. of Sharm Al-Sheik Mountains, organized by Bedouins re- We speak of the beauty of the sea and the ocean, the shad- siding in these areas… it was generally good, but I felt that ows of the history that shine over the water sheets where there was a missing part to make the experience richer and the Omani Marine did and still charts luminous lines. We more interesting, as well as the importance of the heritage speak of the clean, sophisticated and attractive beaches; fact embodied in the traditional food and cloths. The out- caves, forts, aflajs, valleys, springs and the splendid moun- doors parties require enabling the tourist to be able to look tains covered with greenery, of the rare species of birds, fish over history and nature together, taking into account satis- and animals, of the pure sand, of the glamour of spring of fying modern needs in a carful and thoughtful way (for ex- Salalah which is called autumn (khareef) perhaps as a cam- ample, bathrooms in outdoors areas should be of highest ouflage for fear of envy. quality and below vision level), also the adequacy of light We speak of all that but we do not owe Oman’s charm its should be calculated according to the guests’ desires as right. Each visitor to sultanate becomes inevitably captivated they prefer to experience a natural atmosphere particularly to its charm till the day he leaves this life. We speak of all on moony nights. this, not ignoring an indispensible tourism attraction factor, And by the way, there is a steady increase in the number which is the wisdom and poise displayed by the people of of tourists inflowing to Egypt to visit the desert of “Siwa” and this Arab ancient country, which makes the guest feels – in oases to meditate for hours looking at the night sky. the hotel or the street or any gathering – the rhythmic life I have many times said, quoting the deceased great doctor which is rarely found in any other country in the world. This Rushdi Said the father of geologists in the world, that desert factor, which entrenched in the people’s lives, the country’s is a very fragile environment, unlike the common thought. march and its urbanization by the wisdom of the leadership The late doctor was extremely annoyed by the expression acknowledged by all, and became a symbol of the highest used: “invading the desert”, clarifying that the desert must be political wisdom in a world rocked with disturbance. With all treated gently, and pointing that even the slightest mistakes, of the above, a question arises: if all these are advantages like waste dumping even if it was just a few plastic or paper of the Sultanate, what would distinguish the tourism activity bags, will turn the area into an intolerable place. That´s the in Duqm particularly? reason why the sustainable development component and Creating touristic development in zones of desert and moun- maintaining the cleanliness of the surrounding sites and not tain dimensions requires a particular thinking, and this dis- allowing to transform them into dumping sites, is a very im- tinctive way of thinking becomes more demanding when the portant job for maintaining the competitive touristic level and desired development is in a unique site like Duqm and its preserve the beauty of the desert. huge project by the Arabian Sea as a zone of logistics, ports, I also believe that an increasing number of tourists will be marine, services and industrial works of huge size. coming from Asia and Far East countries generally, so it is Based on the raised ideas in Egypt to create a touristic de- recommended to organize training programs to learn about velopment in the Suez Canal zone, and by witnessing pat- customs, traditions and cultures of people coming from terns of hospitality and touristic activity in areas of desert these countries to provide them with best options from ac- and mountainous background in Egypt, and after my stay commodation, food, drinks and entertainment; and luckily for intermittent periods in the Sultanate of Oman (Muscat – the open-minded life in Oman will make this quest easier. Dhofar) I would like to highlight the following: And it might better to start thinking from now of creating The responsible of planning touristic development in Duqm types of festivals to be connected with Duqm like “Duqm´s should take into consideration that a significant number of Festival” for best commercial ships in the world, or best tourists will flow-in, business owners in the zone, conse- passenger ship or fuel tankers, etc. or a festival for marine quently there is something farther than tourism or hotel ac- engineering, or organizing “the International Conference for commodation connecting them with the place, this requires Logistic Areas in Duqm”, etc. providing practical services of international standards from Also establishing specialized academies (like the Interna- one part, and a good level of attractive and smart entertain- tional Institute of Logistics and Marine Engineering etc.) of ment on the other; that would leave an impression on those high-level which will increase the demand on touristic activ- who stay for shorter periods, and attract them to the zone ity in the site. again as tourists and not businessmen. I believe that the officials in charge of Duqm are aware of all The title of this article is making a creative alliance with that, and generally speaking, the integration of the econom- the evening, which means to understand the increasing hu- ical, educational, training and touristic activity in Duqm must man needs in the moments of meditation in the purity of the proceed within a tangled and creative system.
October 2016 21 Mohamed Alkhonji, Chairperson of “Aqar” to : Construction work in Duqm project starts next year
MUSCAT - Mohammed bin Ahmed Al-Shezawi:
Mohamed bin Abdullah Alkhonji, Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer of Alkhonji Real Estate & Development LLC “Aqar” announced that the company would begin next year the implementation of construction works in its tourism project in SEZD. In an exclusive interview for , Alkhonji indicated that the company would sign the management and operation agreement of a 3-star hotel it shall establish in SEZD by the end of the current year within the first phase of its tourism project there. Although Alkhonji did not reveal the name of the company selected to manage and operate the hotel, he stressed that it is a recognized global company with considerable experience in the management and operation of hotels. The company plans to build three hotels within its tourism project that also includes residential and commercial complexes, green areas, and many other facilities.
October 22 2016 Mohammed Al-Khunji during his conversation with the editor
Signing management and operation agreement of a 3-star hotel Committed to the timetable in the first phase and will commence AlKhonji stressed the company’s com- its construction work over the next year by the end of mitment to implement its project accord- to be ready in the first quarter of 2019, 2016 ing to the schedule announced at the pointing out that the three hotels that the signing of the land usufruct agreement company will establish in SEZD will pro- on 26 June 2016. vide more than 600 new hotel rooms. The group plans to spend about OMR 390 million on the project implemented Committed in several phases over 15 years on an Establishment of 10 hotels area of approximately 661 thousand The group plans to establish 10 hotels to implement square meters. Upon completion, it shall in a number of governorates of the Sul- the project provide about 4,000 direct jobs. tanate over the next five years starting Mohamed bin Abdulla Alkhonji stated from 2017. according that the group will build a 3-star hotel Alkhonji Real Estate & Development to the proposed plan of action
Construction of Apartment buildings and offering them for sale for citizens and foreign investors
October 2016 23 OMR390 million is the total project cost and im- plementation is in phases
Our plan includes es- tablishment LLC “Aqar” emerged during the past few for sale for citizens and foreign investors. In years as one of Oman’s leading real estate this way, this will be the first project of its kind of 10 hotels development companies and established in SEZD whose units are offered for sale. in the Sul- a number of commercial and real estate tanate within complexes in Muscat Governorate, notably “RIMAL 1”, “RIMAL 2” and The Office Project. Walkway and green yards the next five He stressed that the company is currently years preparing drawings and detailed studies of Project financing the project according to creative ideas so that The group has appointed KPMG, a global it includes many services and facilities that company specialized in consultancy studies make it a distinctive tourist project in SEZD, and financial audit, for the preparation of fi- noting that these facilities include a walkway nancial feasibility study and means of financ- according to the European style, in addition “Aqar” offers ing the project. Alkhonji explained that the to the green yards. group would finance the project in two ways, Mohamed bin Abdulla Alkhonji expressed more than self-financing and financing from the Sha- optimism that SEZD would achieve good 600 hotel ria-compliant banking sector. success, pointing out that the massive rooms in He explained that the company’s project government, private sector, and foreign would keep pace with the economic, popula- investments, such as the Chinese Indus- its hotels in tion, and urban growth in SEZD, adding that trial City, are positive indicators that con- Duqm the project consists of a commercial complex firm SEZD ability to be a global investment and residential apartments that will be offered destination.
October 24 2016 Car rental offices in Duqm expects good future with the increase in projects
Al-Habsi: we negotiate with OAMC Arshad Pasha: Duqm tourism potentials opening a branch in Duqm Airport encourage us to expand our business, and organize cruises and land tours
Survey by Saleh Al-Mamari : North Wonders Rent-a-Car Office is the first office that provides car rental service Car rental offices in Duqm provide in SEZD. “We are discussing with Oman important services for those coming to Airports Management Company to open SEZD. Duqm has two offices car rental a branch in Duqm Airport,” and Al-Habsi offices while there is interest from some stressing that the rent prices of the com- local investors to open other offices to pro- pany are “reasonable”. vide rental services of all kinds of vehicles. Car rental sector is witnessing good Organizing cruises and land trips in the Increasing growth benefiting from the increasing future numbers of investors and tourists who vis- Arshad Pasha, reservations employee at numbers it SEZD. Moreover, the events organized Al-Madina Travel Company, Duqm Branch of tourists in Duqm raise the demand for car rental. stated: “We have 10 vehicles and demand Office owners predict that the sector is good, continuous, and growing.” raises would achieve good growth in the coming “We will expand our business to include demand for years with the increasing number of proj- organization of cruises and land tours in ects implemented in SEZD and growth in the future. We also have experiences in car rental the numbers of tourists. the sector in several governorates of the Sultanate. There are tourist places close Increased demands to SEZD that can be destinations for tour- Mohammed bin Homoud Al-Habsi, 25, ists and visitors,” added Pasha talking Manager of North Wonders Rent-a-Car about business expansion in SEZD. Office, stated that SEZD grows rapidly as He pointed out that the work of Al-Ma- reflected in the increased demand to rent dina Travel Company are various and in- cars of all kinds. We now have 12 cars and clude flight reservations from Muscat to seek to increase the number of vehicles Duqm and abroad in addition to our activ- of various types during the coming period. ities in the field of car rental, travel insur- We also have a plan to rent motorbikes ance, and holiday packages in the Sultan- and Banshees. ate and abroad.
October 2016 25 CEO of National Ferries Company to
The sunset at Duqm Port from the Hor- muz ferry during its trip from Muscat Operation of a maritime line route between Muscat and Duqm is part local of the company’s ports plan to link Interviewed by: Mohammed bin Ahmed12 Al-Shezawi: Mehdi bin Mohammed Jawad Al Abduwani, CEO of the National Ferries Company (NFC), indicated that connecting Duqm Port with Sultan Qaboos Port is part of the company’s plan to link 12 local ports. However, he stressed that operating such the operation of this line depends on the level of demand. “Once the company ensures the economic feasibility of the line, it will not hesitate to operate it,” stated Al Abduwani. During the current year, the Special Economic Zone in Duqm (SEZAD) signed the an agreement for the implementation of the fourth package of Duqm Port. This includes the infrastructure of the a governmental pier, which includes facilities for rapid fast ferries. The 980-meter government pier in Duqm Port is the first integrated pier implemented in the Omani ports to serve government agencies. “Through its current lines, National Ferries Company contributes to the revitalization of commercial traffic and supporting the economic growth in the coastal Wilayats. Launching regional lines to the Iranian ports would increase boost trade between Oman and Iran and we hope that Omani companies benefit from the new lines. Launching these lines also aims to operationalize Ashgabat Agreement that allows Omani goods and products to reach Central Asia through the international transport and transit corridor,” added Al Abduwani in an exclusive interview for Duqm Economist. He turned to the growth achieved last year by the company in terms of passengers and cargo, explaining that the company was able to transport more than 205,000 passengers in 2015 compared to 92,000 in 2014 and recorded an impressive growth in shipping vehicles and goods. He called on the traders to use the facilities provided by the company in the field of transport of goods and also confirmed that the company discussed with the UAE side operating a maritime line linking Khasab and Dubai.
October 26 2016 A view of Muttrah when the ferry was leaving Sultan Qaboos Port heading towards Duqm
Our goal is to support eco- nomic growth and promote trade be- tween among the coastal governorates
Supporting economic growth between Masirah Island and Shannah Harbor. The company won the world Responsible We focus on National Ferries Company is a state-owned Tourism Award in 2013 and the Middle East Re- enhancing company established recently within the sponsible Tourism Award 2012 and the Middle Sultanate’s efforts for economic diversification East and the world leading sustainable Tourism the and development of maritime sector. What has Award in 2012 within the World Travel Awards performance the company achieved in this aspect? reflecting its achievements in this field. World of tourism MThe maritime transport is one of the eco- Travel Awards, founded in 1993, honors the best nomically important sectors. The company’s institutions and entities in the travel industry at sector establishment in 2008 was to support economic the world levelworldwide in the light of the views performance growth in the Sultanate, stimulate trade between of experts and specialists in the travel industry, the coastal governorates, and promote the per- based on a global votinge that includes 171 and allowing formance of the tourism sector. The company countries. Wall Street Journal calls this award people to aims as well to achieve regional development “travel industry Oscar.” through the delivery ofproviding its services to At the regional level, the company launched its explore the small coastal population centers. operations between Khasab Port in Musandam the marine Given these goals, we can say that the compa- Governorate and Bahman Port in Qeshm Island, ny has realized many significant achievements in the Islamic Republic of Iran, in July 2016. In treasures of and connected Musandam Governorate with its September of the same year, it NFC launched its the Sultanate towering mountain ranges to with the rest of the second regional destination to the city of Bandar governorates of the Sultanate through regular Abbas, Iran. The coming period shall witness maritime lines. These include Muscat - Khasab, adding new destinations, such as a Shahbar City Khasab - Shinas, Shinas - Dibba, Lima - Shinas, Port. The launch of these lines conforms to the and Lima - Dibba. This is in addition to the lines company’s vision to provide advanced shipping that connect ports in Musandam Governorate, services to transport passengers, cargo, and Muscat - such as Khasab - Dibba, Khasab - Lima, and vehicles between local and regional ports to en- Khasab line Lima - Dibba. The company has also transported hance trade movement, increase trade exchang- vehicles and cargo and thus contributed to the es between the two countriesthe Sultanate and encouraged revitalization of the commercial traffic. the Islamic Republic of Iran, and promote tourism. tourists Moreover, the company has a regular line be- tween Shannah and Masirah Island Harbors What is the company’s role in the promo- to see the through Halaniyat Landing Craft two purpose tion of the tourism sector? picturesque built ferries “Shannah and Jawharat Masirah” , Tourism sector is one of the sectors of focus supported by the landing craft Halaniyat. The for the company whose slogan is “Cruising with sights in launch of this line in 2014 was part of the com- Nature”. Muscat - Khasab rRoute contributed Musandam pany’s efforts to provide an additional service to to familiarizinge citizens, residents, and inves- support the existing services to the private sector tors with the touristic richness of the Sultanate Governorate
October 2016 27 The company transported more thanover 205,000 passengers and 52,000 vehicles in 2015
along the line route and in Musandam, which in- agreement with a major commercial mall for the cludes many tourist sites. This link between the transport of goods from Muscat to Khasab. De- two ports has encouraged many tourists to go to spite the continuing rise in cargo shipping, the Musandam and get to know its touristic richness. appeal drive byof big companies to take advan- We also have short trips organized by the tage of this service is still not up to our ambitions. We call on company in Muscat Governorate aimed at high- lighting Muscat beaches and their breathtaking Connecting 12 local ports businesses beauty. We organize these trips for interested to take students, government agencies, and companies. The company has recently linked Sultan advantage of Qaboos Port and Khasab Port, and inaugu- 205 thousand passengers rated trips to Shinas, Dibba, and Lima and be- the shipping tween Shannah and Masirah. What is your plan This leads us to wonder about the level of to connect the rest of the ports of the Sultanate? facilities demand for travel across the lines operat- The company plans to operate trips to six ports provided by ed by the company. in the coming period after it has linked a num- Statistics reflect an exponential growth in pas- ber of ports of the Sultanate over the past years the company senger traffic. During 2015, the number of pas- within a plan to connect 12 local ports. NFCThe along this sengers aboard the company’s trips rose to more company will complete its plan in this area in the than 205,000 passengers compared to 92,000 in coming years when the necessary infrastructure route 2014. This rise was due to the launch of the lines for its operations in the target ports is complete, of Dibba-Khasab and Dibba -Lima in addition to namely: Salalah, Hasik, Al-Hallaniyyat, Al Shu- increasing the number of trips during religious and waymiyah, Sur, and Duqm. national holidays. In addition, the number of vehi- cles vehicles transport by our shipped on the ferry Linking Muscat and Duqm fleet rose to 52,771 compared to 21,048 in 2014 while the volume of freight rose to 8,232 tons. In 2013, the company operated a trip from This growth continued during the current Sultan Qaboos Port to Duqm Port to trans- year. NFC The company transported more than port the participants in the Fifth Muscat Interna- We look 145,000 passengers in the first eight months of tional Youth Forum held in Duqm. What is your forward to this year compared to 132,000 in the same pe- opinion of this experience? Does the company riod last year. The vehicularle shipping transport have a plan to operate a line between the two the benefit traffic has grown by 3% to more than 34,000 ve- ports during the coming period? of to provide hicles while cargo and equipment traffic grew by The experience was very successful. During more than 200% to 11,856 tons against 3,760 the trip, the participants saw beautiful areas, no- opportunities tons in the corresponding period last year. These tably Masirah Island. We were able to provide for Omani figures confirm emphasize the developmental the ferry services adequately as many of them and economic role played by the companyNFC expressed. and Iranian referred to earlier. As for linking Sultan Qaboos Port and Duqm companies Port, it depends on the level of demand. Once Encourage internal trade there is a high sufficient demand, we will not hes- to the benefit itate to operate that line. from the How far has the private sector benefited shipping from freight transport services of the com- Activating Ashgabat agreement pany? lines between Encouraging internal trade is one of the NFC’s Referring to your remarks on connecting the two main objectives of the company. Therefore, the the Sultanate to the Iranian ports, what are ferry fleet is equipped with cargo-loading facili- the economic benefits that can accrue to both countries ties and NFCthe company provides this service countries of from the launch of these lines? free to its passengers. The company also has an The inauguration launching of maritime lines
October 28 2016 Ashgabat Agreement facilitates the arrival export of Omani products to Central Asian markets
Mahdi Al-Abduwani speaking with the editor between the Omani and Iranian ports is part of As for the ferries Sawqrah, Al-Hallaniyat, and We dis- NFCthe company’s plan to activate Ashgabat Masirah 4, their speed is 40 knots/ hour with a Agreement, which provides for the establish- maximum load of 116 passengers and 22 vehi- cussed ment of an international transit hub connecting cles each. The speed of the two ferries Shannah operating a the Omani ports to the countries of Central Asia. and Jawahrat Masirah is 18 knots/ hour and the Oman, Iran, Qatar, Turkmenistan, and Uzbeki- maximum load is 154 passengers and 38 vehi- line between stan signed the agreement in 2011 and Oman cles each. Dubai and ratified it under Royal Decree No. (108/2011) NFCThe company also manages Halaniyat issued on 24 October 2011. The agreement, landing Craft for the shipment of food, goods, Khasab with signed in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, aims to cre- and equipment. This fleet is suitable for the cur- representa- ate an effective hub for regular transport and rent operations of the company but operating transit of goods and passengers between the new lines would require building new ferries. tives ofthe Central Asian countries and the ports of the Gulf UAE side and the Sea of Oman. It also aims to export Omanization and importexchange goods over the interna- tional hub and facilitates access to global mar- What are the job opportunities that the kets through using maritime and land transport company provides for Omani youth? What means through via that hub. is the Omanization percentage? What are your We expect that these lines would contribute plans in the field of national labor training? to the implementation of the agreement and the NFCThe company increased the Omanization Omaniza- promotion of trade exchange between among percentage gradually to reach 76% until by June tion is 76% the Sultanate, Iran, and other countries that 2016. The company continues its efforts to ab- signed Ashgabat Agreement. These lines would sorb more citizens within the technical staff of the and greater also offer good opportunities for the Omani com- ferries once they fulfill the requirements of qual- employment panies and factories to reach the Iranian market ification and necessary certifications. The com- that includes 80 million consumers. In addition, pany also recruited and trained 70 employees, opportunities the Omani companies will have an opportunity to including 45 in the technical department. It also for the local import goods, agricultural products, and sheep appointed employees from the regions served by livestock from the Iranian market. ferries to provide greater employment opportuni- community ties for the local community. Khasab - Dubai Can the company expand its operations through operating a regular maritime line between Khasab and Dubai? This topic is of interest to the company and we discussed it with the UAE side because of the large gains that would accrue to the two coun- tries in terms of trade and tourism. The company’s fleet Can you please highlight the company’s fleet and plans to increase it? The company’s fleet consists of seven ferries in addition to the landing Craft “Halaniyat “. The ferries Shinas and Hormuz are among the fastest diesel ferries in the world with 56 knots/ hour. Each has a capacity of 208 passengers and 56 vehicles.
October 2016 29 Dr. Ayman Al-Nihrawy Economic Advisor of Arab Sea Ports Federation Professor of Transportation, International Trade & Logistics
Economic Importance of Tourism Development in Duqm
The tourism sector in many countries such as Spain, France, touristic countries. Generally, it is noted that the execution of Italy, Greece, the United States of America and Egypt, is con- development projects is mainly done in capitals and main cities sidered to be one of the most important economic sectors that with high population density, on the expense of smaller and ru- have various and numerous positive effects on many levels, ral cities with smaller population, which might desperately need due to its contribution in generating income, creating jobs, ur- modern and development projects. And here arises the role of ban expansion and development. touristic projects in achieving urban and economical and social The generated income by the tourism sector is the sum of what development in these parts that are considered as important is spent by the tourists in the country of tourism, in exchange of sites to the touristic activity for its characteristics and advantag- what they receive of numerous services during their tourist trip; es which are based on geographical location or weather or his- starting with using means of transportation to travel from one tory or any of the other tourism potentials that qualify these cit- place to another and that include: airplanes, ships, railways and ies to be located on the touristic map of these countries, which cars, also accommodation in hotels, tourist villages and resorts obliges governments to consider them by drawing the needed of different rankings, and having meals in restaurants and inter- development plans and direct investments to infrastructure nal transfer between different places and touristic attractions and projects like airports, ports, roads, power generation plants, the fees paid to enter these sites, adding to all above amounts water desalination plants, distribution networks, transportation paid in exchange of services, entertainment activities, souvenirs, and telecommunication, paving the way to the construction of gifts and stuff which tourists buy in the country they visit. the superstructure of urban and social buildings and facilities. On the other hand, it should be pointed that a significant part The government of the Sultanate of Oman, recognizing the of the earned income in the country of tourism is generated of importance of the touristic sector on many levels, especially the exchange of currencies, especially the main international in serving the Omani economy and the economic and social currencies such as the American Dollar, the European Euro, development, has taken upon itself taking care of this sector the Sterling Pound, the Japanese Yen and other currencies and develop it in different parts of the Sultanate through proper which are considered as a source of income for the country scientific planning, and allocating and directing and attracting of tourism. investments, and constructing projects to achieve optimum uti- And here, it might be needed to create an account to compare lization of natural and human resources in the context of pre- the earned income by the foreign currencies spent by the in- serving the environment and heritage. The willayat of Duqm coming foreign tourists, and what is spent in foreign currencies had a significant part of this approach through the Authority of for the importation of the supplies and needs used by touristic the Special Economic Zone in Duqm, which is responsible of establishments; and in the case that revenues in foreign cur- the development projects according to this enlightened vision. rencies exceed expenditures, then this would be reflected as The willayat of Duqm is located on the Arabian Sea. Its beach- a surplus in the balance of payment of the country of tourism. es are known for their clear water, soft sands, and pure air In addition to generating income to the touristic establishments which tends to be slightly cold. Al Shuwaier, is one of its most and projects, the touristic activity is considered to be as an im- famous beaches, on 20 kilometers of the willayat center, and portant financial resource to the state treasury of the country Ras Madraka beach famous for its camping sites, on 80 kilo- of tourism through the taxes applied on these touristic estab- meters of the willayat center, where tourists come in their cars lishments and projects, even though many governments do to pass their vacation and enjoy the wonderful weather and exempt these projects from taxes or they reduce the applied the moderate temperatures throughout the year, particularly in rate to encourage them. Also the importance of the touristic the period between June and September, which is the summer activity should be highlighted in the field of employment and season when temperatures soar throughout the Gulf region, generating job opportunities in the tourism field and in all sec- but in Duqm it stays relatively low at 25 degrees, permitting to a tors related directly or indirectly to the tourism sector and its high tourism possibility of the area. Duqm is also characterized activities, through the economic, operational and marketing by beaches of diverse terrain; as it is sandy in “Nafoon Village”, integration with activities, foremost among transportation, hos- rocky in “Ras Duqm” and “Ras Markaz” and “Ras Madraka”. pitality, banking, insurance and leisure activities. Adding to these beaches, the existence of a special natural Many studies indicate that many tourists allocate the majority reserve which is a reserve of natural creatures and fungal life of their travel budget to spend on their purchases in the coun- near Duqm, and the Rocks Garden which is considered as a tries they visit, mostly on local manufactured goods of high touristic attraction characterized for its geological and arche- quality and competitive price, also on souvenirs and products ological location that contains distinctive and rare rock col- of historical or heritage character of the country they visit, like lection, in addition to the mountainous highlands that contain handicrafts and folk crafts. This kind of spending is considered many valleys and bays, and which represents a unique natural as a type of exporting of local products without the need of environment. Duqm is known for its traditional handicraft indus- foreign marketing or international freight and its procedures, try, giving the state a historical and enchanting touch. taking into accounts that this kind of exportation doesn’t face Duqm is now witnessing the execution of numerous promising the existing competition in international markets. touristic projects that bode well and thrive, so it is expected to In addition to all above mentioned, the touristic activities play a be a promising and distinctive tourism destination in the near significant role in the urban and development expansion in the future by God’s help.
October 30 2016 The hospitality sector seeks to place Duqm on the map of local and international tourism
Duqm – Mohammed Al-Shezawi: in the attraction of more tourists from inside and outside of Oman. Officials in the hospitality sector in the Special Currently there are three hotels in Duqm, The sea, Economic Zone in Duqm assured that the area those are: Duqm Crown plaza Hotel with a ca- possesses numerous qualities and potentials to pacity of 213 rooms and suites; Duqm Park Inn the Rocks become a distinctive touristic area, not only do- Hotel and Resort with a capacity of 73 chalets; Garden, the mestically within the Sultanate but also interna- and Duqm City Hotel with a capacity of 118 tionally. rooms and suites. Reserve In exclusive statements to the Duqm Econo- The Special Economic Zone in Duqm is char- of Natural mist, they invited investors to create new touris- acterized by its closeness to the Reserve of Nat- tic project and to provide entertainment services ural Creatures and Fungal Life and the Reserve Creatures which will contribute in attracting tourists; point- of Wetlands, in addition to the Rocks Garden and Fungal ing that the sea and the splendid beaches are which is considered as a rare geological and convenient to setup numerous marine touristic touristic attraction site. Life; All are activities to attract tourists such as speed boats The officials of the hospitality sector have ex- elements and windsurfing along with other activities. Nev- pressed their optimistic vision toward the touristic ertheless, it is impossible to setup these activities future of the Special Economic Zone in Duqm, of touristic without establishing a breakwater to reduce the pointing that the forthcoming two years are going attraction intensity of waves’ action inshore, which is con- to be very positive, expecting that new projects sidered a distinctive characteristic of the Arabian will increase the demand on hotels’ rooms, as- that need Sea due to its adjacent location with the Indian suring that activating the touristic attractions ele- to be Ocean. ments as the sea, the beaches, the Rocks Gar- They also declared that setting-up varied ma- den, etc., will contribute in the development of activated. rine activities will forge a competitive quality in the tourism sector and increase the occupancy the Special Economic Zone in Duqm resulting rate of hotels which is currently of 40% to 50%.
Number of rooms, chalets and hotel suites in Duqm 118 rooms and suites An 213 optimistic rooms and future suites vision along Duqm Crown Plaza (4 stars) with the Duqm Park Inn (4 stars) increasing
Duqm City Hotel (3 stars) number of 73 chalets, each chalet consists of one room projects. and a living room or two rooms and a living room
October 2016 31 The Hotel Manager of Park Inn by Radisson Hotel and Residence Duqm: We invite families to visit Duqm and enjoy its moderate weather
October 32 2016 Duqm - :
The Hotel Manager of Park Inn by Radisson Hotel and Residence Duqm, Ahmad Daghmash, invited families to visit Duqm and enjoy its moderate weather throughout the year, pointing that the resort that was officially inaugurated in late January 2015, provides a high level of privacy to its guests particularly to families. He declared that they take advantage of Eids and official holidays to organize varied activities for children which contributes to enrich their visit to Duqm, also pointing out that these shows organized by the hotel aiming to encourage families to come and visit Duqm and enjoy its moderate weather, along with other touristic elements.
October 2016 33 A bright future is awaiting Duqm… and we have an optimistic vision towards 2017.
Promoting courage Dhofar visitors to stop by Duqm on He emphasized that the hotel promotes its their way to Salalah and on their way back. services inside and outside of the Sultanate via numerous channels, and he declared that they Varied services participate in promotions under the umbrella He pointed that the hotel offers numerous of the Ministry of Tourism, within the Ministry’s services and facilities along with chalets of one efforts to promote internal tourism, they also and two rooms with living rooms, where the had their own promotions for families, inves- couches in each living room can be turned into We tors and companies already operating in the beds. In the chalets there are also designated Special Economic Zone in Duqm, they also areas to laundry (washing machines & dryers), participate in promote the hotel within a big network of ho- a kitchen with equipment’s, and a private park- the program tels within their International Group: The Carl- ing area; making the hotel an excellent choice son Rezidor Group. The group has more than for families and persons intending to stay in of the 1.3 million member within the “Carlson Club Duqm for a long period of time, particularly the Ministry of Program” only in the Middle East and Europe, companies that are executing projects of one which helps them in promoting their services year of more, and indeed the hotel has numer- Tourism to to this huge number of members, and in fact, ous contracts with government organizations encourage the received a number of the members of this and companies within this frame of work. international program during this year. internal He added: “we also ensure in promoting our Rehabilitation and training tourism. offers in local and regional newspapers and He also assured the attention lent by the through social media”; expressing that these hotel to training and rehabilitation programs offers contributed during the last period to en- and providing convenient job opportunities to
October 34 2016 Our connection with The Carlson Rezidor Group, allows us to attract tourists from all over the world.
Omanis, pointing that a number of Omanis has a lot of potentials to be a touristic destina- from Duqm and other Wilayats are currently tion”, pointing that the current occupancy rate working with the hotel, and there are varied is within 40% to 50%, but he expected that this training programs to the employees along with rate will rise within the next two coming years, a number of incentives to encourage them to in parallel with the inauguration of many proj- work in the hospitality sector. ects in the zone and finalizing the current proj- ects. Good growth Ahmed Daghmash, The Hotel Manager of Challenges Park Inn by Radisson Hotel and Residence And regarding the challenges currently fac- Duqm, referred to the growth achieved by the ing the hospitality sector, Ahmed Daghmash We hotel since its inauguration, pointing to the said that hotels in the zone are still catering encourage growth of Duqm and the increasing number from Muscat which results in huge transporta- of companies investing in the zone, and the tion costs, which finally and consequently re- the local ships anchoring in the port and the dry-dock, sult in increasing costs and affects profits. And community resulting in increasing number of hotel guests we see that attracting major logistic companies and contributing generally to the growth of the and hotel services companies will diversify the to work hospitality sector. available options for hotels, resulting in de- in the creasing costs and consequently decreasing A bright future services fees provided by hotels, particularly hospitality He expressed his optimization to the future accommodation and meals. Also the prepara- sector. of tourism in Duqm, saying: “our vision toward tion of the beach for varied activities will con- 2017 is positive. Duqm is a promising area and tribute in attracting more tourists to Duqm.
October 2016 35 Cluster General Manager of City Hotel, Duqm: Duqm will soon convert into a modern city
October 36 2016 The port, the dry-dock and the new projects are all main factors to the development of the hospitality sector
Duqm - : formance will improve during the next two years, whereas the new projects announced for this and the coming two years will be a main de- Vijay Handa, Cluster General Manager of velopment factors to the hospitality sector. And Duqm City Hotel, praised the development of from our part we try to keep pace with Duqm the Special Economic Zone in Duqm, and he economic growth by introducing new services, said that the Duqm port, the dry dock and other such as new a meeting room that can fit up to projects executed during the last period in the 75 to 100 persons. This will be a new addition zone and new projects, are main factors to the to the services and facilities already available growth in the hospitality sector, assuring that in the hotel like the Restaurant, Takeaways, current projects have contributed in reaching Health Club, Ample parking lots, the current a good occupancy rate in the hotels operating meeting room and other services. now in Duqm. The first hotel in Duqm And in an exclusive statement to the Duqm He expressed his happiness that City Hotel We are Economist, he expected that Duqm will soon was the first hotel in the Special Economic Zone proud to be convert into a modern city; “I expect that Duqm in Duqm, which was inaugurated in 2012, and will convert within a period of 5 to 7 years into the first to a modern city, that can satisfy and fulfill the operate in needs and expectations of its residents and making available all the necessary services to Duqm… and tourists”, pointing that the hotel is receiving a we seek to good number of tourists, investors and workers in the zone. provide best services to Projects are a main development factor to the sector our guests. And he added: “we expect that hotel’s per-
October 2016 37 Adding new services to keep pace with the economic growth.
Omanization rate is of 35% along with the executing of rehabilitation programs.
he said “we are proud of that and we seek to Training programs provide best Food & services to our Residents He addressed the performance level of the & Non-Residents and to take care of families Omani employees, and said “our Omanization Providing staying with us and to provide them a relaxed rate has reached 35% and we are sincerely touristic atmosphere with high quality services, we also trying to increase it during the coming period, provide numerous promotional offers to inves- with continuous training programs to our em- services and tors, companies and families” round the year. ployees, also we send some of our employees constructing And he explained that promoting the hotel to other hotels run by OMRAN for more rehabil- public parks and its services is done through various online itation, cross training exposures and exchange channels, Sales & Marketing team based out of experience. will have a of Muscat including the Oman Tourism Devel- We give a lot of priority to training our team positive out- opment Company (OMRAN) which owns sev- members by our own training personnel & ex- eral hotels in many provinces of Oman and ternal trainers as well. come on the consequently it promotes the hotel within its Vijay Handa, The Cluster General Manager of hospitality own chain. We also promote our hotel through Duqm City Hotel, assured that providing touristic our own website and through participating in services and constructing public parks and chil- sector. regional and international tourism exhibitions/ dren parks is essential to residents, and this will Travel Marts. have a positive result on the hospitality sector.
October 38 2016 General Manager of Duqm Crown Plaza
Providing first class services for businessmen and investors Duqm - :
The General Manager of Duqm Crown Plaza Hotel, Fakhri Hindiyeh, assured that Duqm enjoys touristic and economical qualities that promise the city of a bright future, the city that became the focus of attention of investors from inside and outside of Oman, pointing that Duqm Crown Plaza Hotel is contributing in enriching the touristic aspect through its services to investors and tourists visiting the zone. He said in an exclusive statement to the : We try to provide first class services for businessmen and investors. We also take care of tourists visiting the hotel for relaxation and enjoying the beautiful weather of Duqm. This city that overlooks the Arabian Sea and is located half way between Muscat and Salalah, is characterized by its golden beaches and beautiful nature in addition to the economic activity of the zone, in which the hospitality sector plays a significant part.
October 2016 39 Special Services Arabian Sea”. The hotel is considered as the opti- He praised the services provided by the ho- mum option to organize conferences and forums tel to its guests, considering that Duqm Crown in different halls of different sizes, all equipped We pro- Plaza Hotel which is owned by Tourism Devel- with video and audio systems of up-to-date tech- mote our opment Company (OMRAN) and was inaugu- nology, taking into consideration that the “central” rated in April 2014, is the leader in services of hall can accommodate 300 persons. services in hospitality and relaxation offered to business- international men and investors, announcing that guests be- Activities and entertainment programs ing businessmen or tourists, will find all means The General Manager of Duqm Crown Pla- exhibitions, of sophisticated comfort like high speed & free za Hotel, Fakhri Hindiyeh, noted the activities internal internet services, health club, businessmen´s and entertainment programs organized by the center, restaurants and others services, in ad- hotel to create a cheerful atmosphere for visi- advertising dition to its unique view on the Arabian Sea. tors, providing bicycles for persons of all ages media and He added: “the rich colors and the Omani ar- in addition to the services of the health club, chitectural designs add a warm and welcoming the swimming pool, the beach boardwalk and social media. atmosphere in all of the 213 rooms and suites, walking over the picturesque sands of the sea. where all its windows and terraces overlook the The restaurant “Alsouq” serves the most deli- cious daily meals and varied buffets all week long, like Indian, Asian, Arabian and seafood.
Encourag- Internal and international promotion ing internal He noted the hotel´s efforts to promote and attract businessmen and tourists from inside trade and of Oman, regional and European countries. launching He said that: “we try to promote our services in international exhibitions, internal advertising promotional media and social media. Taking into consider- campaigns ation that Duqm Crown Plaza Hotel is part of the International Intercontinental Hotels Group, throughout which also promotes to the hotel worldwide. the year. Promoting internal tourism He declared that Duqm Crown Plaza Hotel
We are working on increasing the omanization rate to support the local community.
October 40 2016 Visitors of promotes internal tourism in the domestic tour- Khareef ism exhibitions in collaboration with the Min- Salalah stop- istry of Tourism, also it launches promotional offers throughout the year. by Duqm for He pointed that the occupancy rate in the relaxation hotel is currently of 45% and it varies from one month to another depending on the market and enjoying movement and tourism seasons, considering the splendid that summers´ months from June till August hotel is working on increasing the omanization witnesses huge turnout from tourists, coincid- rate in order to support the local community, natural ing with Khareef Salalah, whereas Duqm is and recently the hotel signed an agreement beauty of the considered the connecting point between the with the Authority of the Special Economic two cities and many tourists stop-by Duqm for Zone in Duqm to train and prepare the younger area. relaxation and enjoying the splendid natural generation for the hospitality sector. beauty. Importance of tourism sector Rehabilitation and training The General Manager of Duqm Crown Pla- As of the rehabilitation and training pro- za Hotel, Fakhri Hindiyeh, assured the impor- Promoting grams and the omanization in the hotel, tance of the tourism sector to the local econo- and Fakhri Hindiyeh assured that Duqm Crown my and generating job opportunities, pointing Plaza Hotel is always seeking to rehabilitate that strengthening the added value of the tour- increasing and develop the workforce, and said that: “ ism sector requires that all efforts of different touristic the administration of the hotel prepares a institutions of government and private sector, yearly training program for employees of all come together, in addition to increasing the investment departments, as it is keen to guarantee the touristic investment and promoting the sultan- are key workers efficiency and making sure of their ate as a touristic destination. elements development in order to provide best services And he expected lastly, a bright future for the to guests, in addition to the Academy of the tourism sector in the Special Economic Zone in to the International Intercontinental Hotels Group Duqm, considering that projects that are cur- development to develop their skills, where each employ- rently being executed like the Chinese city, the ee follows a training plan to improve his/her Duqm port, the dry-dock, the refinery, the air- of the efficiency and develop his abilities to provide port… are all important factors to increase the tourism best services to the guests. demand on the touristic services and contribut- And he added: The administration of the ing in the enrichment of the sector. sector.
October 2016 41 “Mowasalat” Launches Muscat-Duqm Route by the end of this year
The new line keeps pace with population and urbanization growth in SEZD
Muscat- : reduce traffic congestion and promote eco- nomic gains for the use of public transport, Oman National Transport Company “Mo- namely providing new jobs, stimulating com- wasalat” shall launch Muscat-Duqm route by mercial and tourist traffic, reducing traffic jams, the end of this year as part of its plan to link and facilitating the movement of citizens, res- “Mowasalat” the various Wilayats of the Sultanate through a idents, and tourists within the same city and new brand- modern road transport network. from one city to another. Duqm is about 550 km from Muscat. “Mo- Current “Mowasalat” fleet consists of 40 ing focuses wasalat” lines at the moment reaches up to buses inside the city and 37 outside, but it on the estab- Sinaw, about 350 km from Wilayat of Duqm, plans to add 118 new buses, including 85 bus- The new line shall provide a good service to es in the city and 33 outside and provide buses lishment of the people of Wilayat of Duqm and workers in to other cities. an integrated SEZD, which witnesses a population and ur- Mowasalat” has seen good growth in the ban growth. number of passengers since the launch of its network of In November 2015, “Mowasalat” launched new identity in November 2015. The number of public trans- its new branding for public transport in the Sul- passengers until last July was 2.2 million pas- tanate, which focuses on the establishment of sengers, and the estimated number of passen- port to serve an integrated network of public transport lines gers per day was about 10 thousand. all segments to serve all segments of society while providing The company is working on a long-term a high standard of services for passengers. plan that will last until 2040. It shall announce it of society The focus of public transport strategy is to by the end of 2016.
October 42 2016 Happy Line General Manager: Two daily journeys from Muscat to Duqm
October 2016 43 A bus of the Happy Line Fleet leaving Muscat on its way to Mahut and then to Duqm
Duqm- : Muscat-Duqm route by Oman National Economic Transport Company “Mowasalat” expect- growth in Nasser bin Said Al-Hosni, General Man- ed in the fourth quarter of this year. “The ager of Happy Line Transport Company, new route will not affect us. Mowasalat is a Duqm raised said that the company operates two daily state-owned company that does not target the demand journeys from Muscat to Duqm and one the private sector and has its customers. journey from Duqm to Salalah, pointing For our part, we seek to satisfy our custom- for our out that there is good growth in passenger ers and provide them the best services at services numbers and freight. competitive prices,” explained Happy Line The journey from Al-Sahwa Tower General Manager. Roundabout in Muscat Governorate to Duqm takes about 7 hours and passes Many gains through a number of Wilayats and commu- Happy Line Transport Company, an nities before stopping in Duqm. “The first SME, benefited from the establishment journey departs Ruwi station in Muscat at of SEZD. “The economic growth in SEZD 5:45 am, stops in Al-Sahwa Tower Station increased traffic on Muscat-Duqm route, until 7:00, and arrives in Duqm at 2:00 pm. which began in 2008 with one daily journey. We welcome The second leaves Al-Sahwa Tower Station However, the increasing number of passen- “Mowasalat” at 10:00 am to reach Duqm at 5:00 pm and gers and growth of freight movement led then continues to Al-Lakbi in the Wilayat us to add a second daily journey in 2015. and the of Al-Jazir about 250 kilometers from the Passenger numbers vary from day to day, competition Duqm,” said Al-Hosni. but the freight traffic grows,” elaborated “As for Duqm-Salalah journey, it departs Al-Hosni. will not at 6:30 am to stop in Al-Jazir, then Al-Lakbi, He said the company transported about affect us Soukrah, Cherbatat, Shalem, and Marmoul 13 thousand passengers last year and ex- to reach Salalah at 6:00 pm spanning more pected an increase in numbers in the com- than 600 km,” added Al-Hosni. ing years in line with the economic growth and the increase in the number of projects Services for workers in SEZD in SEZD. Happy Line Transport is the only compa- ny, which operates daily journeys between Diversification of services Muscat and Duqm and between Duqm and On the diversification of services offered Transfer of Salalah. “The company targets the workers by the company, Al-Hosni stated that they about 13 in SEZD and workers in the area of fisheries got this year a contract from one of the ma- in Al-Wusta Governorate. This is the reason jor companies operating in SEZD to trans- thousand that the ticket prices are very competitive,” port its employees between Duqm and passengers asserted Al-Hosni. Muscat by eight journeys a month. “We are in 2015 Al-Hosni ruled any negative effects on ready to meet the demands of companies the company after the inauguration of the operating in SEZD that want to move their
October 44 2016 We visited the staff of the Happy Line Company China and in one of the factories in China South Korea within our employees or guests within SEZD and be- tong Company in China and a number of yond,” added Al-Hosni. other companies in China and South Korea. plan to “The tourism attractions of Duqm are We discussed the possibility that the man- modernize various. I suggest that SEZD companies ufacturers can add the facilities we need, organize recreational trips for their employ- including electric charging points for com- the fleet ees monthly to tourist areas or the sea to puters and other electronic devices, notice break the daily work routine. We are ready of occupied seat, (WI-FI) system, sensor for to provide equipped buses for such occa- technical malfunctions, central media sys- sions,” said Al-Hosni. tem to show movies, audio clips, navigation I suggest maps and many other ideas welcomed by that large Fleet development the companies. Nasser bin Said Al-Hosni, General Man- “We do not consider the bus as only a companies ager of Happy Line Transport Company, means of transport but also an entertain- organize referred to the company’s plan to modern- ment tool for passengers. We can also use ize its fleet. “The growth in SEZD in terms it to promote the Sultanate and its touristic recreational of projects and the number of companies attractions and broadcast many awareness trips for their and investors requires us to develop the messages for the foreign workforce in the fleet. Last year, I visited the factory of Yu- country,” concluded Al-Hosni. employees and we are ready to provide the appropriate buses
Bus is not only a means of transport but also an en- tertainment tool for pas- sengers and promotion for tourism elements in the Sultanate
October 2016 45 Local and international interest in the services provided by Oman Dry Dock Company
epair of vessels in the first seven months 38 of 2016
October 46 2016 Duqm - : first 410 × 95 meters in length, the second 410 × 80 meters and a depth of up to 14 meters for both The services provided by Oman Dry Dock basins. The dry dock can receive various types Company have gained local and global interest. of ships and provide its services to them, such Forging a During the first seven months of this year, the as oil and gas tankers, commercial and tourist company received 38 vessels for which it con- vessels, container ships, equipment vessels and partnership ducted general repairs and renovated some con- other vessels. with the sumer parts along with different technical works. The company also converted ships from one use Environmental Management System Certification State-owned to another, one of the company’s priorities in the The company has strengthened its position by companies period next. obtaining global awards and certificates. During The importance of the dry dock increased lo- the current year, the company obtained the envi- in the field of cally during the first half of this year through the ronmental management system certification (ISO ship repair, maintenance of many vessels of the Omani ma- 14001: 2004). This system is one of the most im- rine companies. This is one of the visions of the portant criteria adopted by the International Orga- mainte- company with a view to creating a genuine part- nization for Standardization and awarded to the nance, and nership between Oman Dry Dock and the State- companies and organizations that meet all sys- owned companies in the field of ship repair and tem requirements, which aims mainly to minimize technical maintenance and providing technical and logisti- the negative effects of the company’s activities on and logisti- cal support to giant vessels and fast ferries. the environment. The Dry Dock consists of the two basins, the Obtainment of this certificate in addition to cal support those of quality and occupational health and is underway safety among the factors that attract shipbuild- ers when comparing different dry docks. In other words, this contributes to the realization of the company’s vision to become the best company in the Middle East in this field.
Induction Meeting for Support Companies On 1 March, the company organized an induc- tion meeting in cooperation with SEZAD for the companies that support construction, repair, and maintenance of ships locally and globally. During the meeting, it highlighted the capabilities of the dry dock in the field of ship repair of various kinds and the possibilities available in the field of steel structures industry. The company also presented the opportunities available to the private sector in the areas and activities of support and assistance to ship repair.
Promotional Visits During the first half of 2016, the company con- ducted six promotional visits that included Greece, Implement- Cyprus, India, Singapore, and Dubai to identify the ing a market- specialized companies that possess global ships, build bridges of communication with the global ing strategy ship owners globally, and introduce them to the to increase services provided by the dry dock. This forms part of the marketing strategy of the company, which the number focuses on increasing the number of customers of customers from local and international companies. The Posidonia Exhibition in Greece in which from local the company participated last June is the largest and interna- community of ship owners in the world and one of the most famous specialized exhibitions for ship- tional com- building, repair, and dry dock sector. The Greek panies maritime sector is a huge market for many spe- cialists in this field.
October 2016 47 The Special Economic Zone Authority in Duqm high- lights the environmental aspects of “Wadhah Initiative DDuqmuqm - :
TThehe SpecialSpecial EconomicEconomic ZoneZone AuthorityAuthority inin DDuqmuqm duringduring participatingparticipating inin “Wadhah“Wadhah Initia-Initia- ttive”,ive”, p presentedresented awarenessawareness programsprograms ofof thethe eenvironment.nvironment. ZainabZainab bintbint AbdullahAbdullah Al-Kharusi-Al-Kharusi- aahh – HeadHead ofof NaturalNatural PreservationPreservation andand HeritageHeritage CConservationonservation withinwithin thethe Authority,Authority, concentratedconcentrated iinn herher presentationpresentation duringduring thethe initiativeinitiative onon thethe DDuqm’suqm’s environmentenvironment andand waysways toto preservepreserve it.it. AAndnd itit highlightedhighlighted thethe environmentalenvironmental prob-prob- llemsems occurringoccurring inin thethe SpecialSpecial EconomicEconomic ZoneZone iinn Duqm,Duqm, kindskinds ofof existingexisting andand potentialpotential envi-envi- rronmentalonmental pollution,pollution, thethe plasticplastic dangersdangers andand thethe hhazardsazards ofof burningburning residues,residues, pointingpointing outout thethe sscientificcientific methodsmethods toto eliminateeliminate thesethese problems,problems, Zainab Al-Kharusiah aandnd thethe woman’swoman’s vitalvital rolerole inin raisingraising awarenessawareness while speaking in a ooff cchildren,hildren, familyfamily andand locallocal societysociety withwith thethe im-im- presentation pportanceortance ofof preservingpreserving thethe environment.environment.
Within the Duqm Refineries Social Responsibility Program Wadhah Initiative: A new vision to reinforce the women’s capabilities in Al-Wusta Governance
Duqm – : projects, ways and methods to electronic mar- keting, the art of customer service through a se- “Wadhah Initiative” launched, in its second ries of interactive training sessions. version, a new vision to reinforce the women’s The training programs assigned for the 12th capabilities in Al-Wusta Governance through grade students, focused on reinforcing personal focusing on providing them with the basics of development for the participants girls with the project management, marketing, and customer aim of giving them a serious professional vision service, in addition to reinforce the leadership to the future. The training sessions included a skills they have, in addition to providing them series of topics that concerns this category of with decision making and team work skills. the population to sharpen leadership skills and “Wadhah Initiative” is one of the Duqm Refin- values they already have, decision making, trou- eries’ initiatives within the social responsibility do- bleshooting and self-motivation in order to move main, and it aims to support the projects and pro- forward in the scientific approach. grams suggested by the women of Duqm particularly and of Al-Wusta Governance generally. The initia- tive has been launched in 2015 in collaboration with the Omani Wom- en Association in Duqm, and during the current year, “Royat Shabab Organization” has collaborated in enriching this initiative through focusing on reinforcing and devel- oping the abilities and skills of the participants in all different aspects of business management. The training program dedicat- ed to the members of the Omani Women Association in Al-Wusta Governance and that lasted for 3 days, focused on different topics, mainly: the basic steps to start a small and innovative business
October 48 2016
A
t a
l k
t a o r e Al-Anoona th m Porject e ca
Leveling the land in the Duqm Refinery´s area
Al-Nahdha Village in Duqm
Spacek Factory Oman
October 2016 49 Premises of the Authority of Special Economic Zone in Duqm
Construction works in the Duqm Airport
October 50 2016 Medical clinic
The New Dual way
Traffic lights organize the traffic in Duqm
October 2016 51 Natural reserves support ecotourism in Duqm Duqm - :
There are many natural reserves throughout the Sultanate that are a fertile ground for eco-tourism, where tourists enjoy visiting natural unpolluted sites whose natural balance is still intact. Al-Wusta Governorate is famous for the Living and Fungal Organisms Reserve founded in 1994 under the name of the Arabian Oryx Sanctuary amended later in 2011. The reserve is in Jalouni Area, Jeddat Al-Harasees Wilayat of Hima, about 100 km from the center of the Wilayat. Environmental Conservation Bureau, Diwan of Royal Court, manages the reserve. The Environmental Conservation Bureau, represented by the reserve management, is keen to hold various activities and events, and organize visits, especially for students in the schools surrounding the reserve, to enhance knowledge and awareness of natural resources and create a conscious generation of the importance of a balanced and safe environment.
Arabian Oryx
The visitor can arrange earlier and get a permit to enter the Reserve by directly calling the Reserve´s administration on phone number 99213388
October 52 2016 Living and Fungal Organisms Reserve is a One type of butterflies in destination the reserve for tourists from within and outside the Sultanate
Duqm - : serve is an essential destination for many tourists from within and outside the Sultan- The Bureau provides management and ate in spite of its hot desert weather due to staff in reserve to ensure the implementa- its exceptional ingredients that make it a tion of all environmental laws and regula- tourist attraction. It contains reproduction tions in the Sultanate to safeguard wildlife hangars of Arabian Oryx, Arabian gazelles, of various kinds as a civilized legacy given and Rhim Gazelle. It also includes wa- the important elements the reserve has. ter, natural and geological resources, rock The reserve has also a veterinarian, consul- formations, and meteorite craters since tants, and two specialists who work around time immemorial. Together, they form the the clock to provide health care for the ani- most beautiful natural paintings, notably in mals within the reserve and record data and Al-Jeddah Plateau, Al-Huqf Area, and Wadi statistics on a regular basis. Dispatched Ashnan. are also a number of daily patrols for usual The population in the areas surrounding monitoring inside the reserve. They have the reserve are Bedouin characterized by the judicial arrest powers. They do not allow Arabian hospitality, an incentive for tourism. any strangers to enter the reserve without They retain their old customs and traditions Providing a permit. The Environmental Conservation inherited from their parents and grandpar- a favorable Bureau is also responsible for reserve man- ents and consider them a valuable part of agement, supervision, and coordination their originality. The locals communicate in environment with the concerned governmental authori- Al-Harsousi dialect, which is a non-written for Arabian ties to provide protection for wildlife in the dialect of their own that differ categorically Oryx, Nubian reserve, such as Ministry of Environment from Al-Mahariya or Al-Jibali dialects and is and Climate Affairs, Public Prosecutor’s Of- one of the very difficult dialects hard to learn Ibex, Rhim fice, Royal Oman police and various other because of its difficult articulation points. Gazelles, entities. Largest natural reserves and Arabian Tourist destination The Living and Fungal Organisms Re- gazelles The Living and Fungal Organisms Re- serve is the largest natural reserves in the
Direction sign in SEZD indicating the reserve location
October 2016 53 Environmen- tal Conserva- tion Bureau provides protection for wildlife in the reserve
Watching wild animals through the telescope
Sultanate of Oman with an area of about fox, and striped hyena, which feed on small Population (2824) square kilometers. The priority of the animals, such as hares, jerboas, and young of the areas reserve is to resettle and safeguard Arabian deer, which help preserve the ecological Oryx estimated at more than 500. It is also balance in the reserve. surrounding concerned with the preservation of biodiver- the reserve sity of other endangered organisms in the Variety of plants desert environment, most notably: Rhim, The recent field study indicate that there are Bedou- Arabian gazelle, Nubian ibex, lynx, hare, are about 39 species of wild plants in the ins char- hedgehog and many other types. reserve. The vegetation in the reserve is of The Living and Fungal Organisms Re- great importance for wildlife because it pro- acterized serve has a unique diversity in terms of vides food and safe havens. It is also the by Arabian plants, insects, terrain, water and geolog- water source for the other organisms that ical resources that have retained the au- live in the reserve through dewdrops and fog hospitality thentic ingredients of Omani nature and formed early morning on the on the leaves environmental balance. Many wild animals of some plants. Despite the harsh desert en- live there and statistics indicate that there vironment, the plants have a superior ability are approximately 15 species of mammals to adapt to remain in perpetual greenness. and 4 species of hoofed mammals, which have resisted all forms of extinction. The Many birds and reptiles most important types of endangered ani- There are over 50 species of birds in the mals in the reserve includes Arabian Oryx, reserve, both immigrant and settled. Their Nubian Ibex, Rhim gazelle, and Arabian ga- numbers change constantly depending on zelle. The reserve also contain many pred- the richness of the season. The most im- ators, such as Arab wolf, red fox, lynx, sand portant birds that exist in large numbers
Organizing visits for students in the schools surrounding the reserve to promote knowledge of envi- ronmental awareness
Arabian gazelles
October 54 2016 Egyptian vulture in the reserve include sandgrouse as its istence of man. It is rich in monuments and swarms land daily on the water ponds next fossils. You will find meteorite rocks, lava to reserve center to drink and collect wa- rocks formed of volcanoes that were active ter for their young. Some statistics indicate millions of years ago, and fossils of snails that there are about 21 species of reptiles in and slugs that witness to this abysmal period Registration the reserve, such as dabb lizards (mastig- of time when all this area was under the sea. of 50 species ures), monitor lizard, and several species of snakes, such as cobra and pseudo cobra. Reserve climate of birds and The reserve has a unique climate that 39 species of Geology and rock formations is quite different from most other desert cli- wild plants Geographically, the reserve consists of mates because of its proximity to the sea two parts: from which wind laden with water vapor in Living 1) Al-Jeddah plateau: a pebbly plant punc- blows. This forms heavy fog, which is one and Fungal tuated by sandy tracts locally called Al- of the important resources for wildlife in the Heelat, which collect rainwater and form reserve. Organisms water ponds that remains for several Temperature varies throughout the day, Reserve weeks. i.e. it falls at night and rises during the day. 2) Al-Huqf area: consists of Al-Huqf rock In the winter, temperatures in the afternoon cliff with a depth of more than 100 meters may reach more than 30° C, but drops at and Al-Huqf depression, which includes night to below 15° C. In the summer, it ris- salt sandy marshes. Al-Huqf area is a es during the afternoon to more than 45° C geologically unique landmark in the world and decrease at night to below 25° C. because it contains fossils and rocks The rain rate on the reserve is very low at popped up from the depths of the Earth less than 50 millimeters of water per year. It that date back to more than 800 million is in the form of fleeting showers on some years. places in the reserve only and not on all A tour in Al-Huqf area would make you parts. In the summer, dust storms that ob- Al-Huqf area see concrete evidence of life before the ex- struct vision abound. contains fossils and rocks popped up from the depths of the Earth that date back to more than 800 million years
Hare
October 2016 55 Sunrise Reserve, home to the Migratory birds
Duqm - : of salt (marsh), huge flats of silt, and some Recording salt-water lakes. It has the biggest natural 7 species Wetlands Reserve in Al-Wusta Gov- gathering of intact mangroves in the Sul- ernorate is home to many types of winter tanate along Mahout Island coast. It also of whales, migratory birds for their mating. More than has several types of depth marine weeds 8 species (140) species of birds were registered that contribute to the balance of the envi- there. ronmental and chemical system of coastal of dolphins, Founded in September 2014 by Royal water and are food for shrimps, which is and 140 Decree No. (51/2014), the reserve cov- the most important income source for fish- ers an area of (1222) square kilometers ermen in the area. It has the most import- species of and overlooks the east coast of Al-Wusta ant and largest collection of algae in the marine birds Governorate. It has three island, namely semi-flat territory, which is of great impor- Mahout, Maoul, and A’b, each with its own tance because it is essential to food and nature. production process chain in the region. The reserve has many ingredients that make it a distinctive tourist destination in Suitable environment for dolphins, Al-Wusta Governorate. Visitors can enjoy whales, and birds its pleasant weather through camping on Wetlands Reserve in Al-Wusta Gover- the shores of the islands in summer and norate is a suitable environment for dol- watching the flocks of birds at dawn and phins and whales due to its richness in at sunset. fish and various characteristics that distin- Wetlands The Ministry of Environment and Cli- guish it. Registered were seven species of mate Affairs sees to the achievement of whales and eight species of dolphins in the reduce the reserve goals. The specialists monitor reserve so far. erosion of the status of terrestrial and marine wildlife The reserve is also an attractant envi- through protection teams. There are efforts ronment for birds with about (140) species beaches and made to cultivate mangroves in the areas of marine birds recorded found on land and contribute that need such growing. There are many water bodies, such as seagulls, terns, and research and monitoring projects aimed flamingos. to the at wildlife, such as monitoring migratory Moreover, the reserve is one of the most renewal of birds, whales, and dolphins. important sites for turtle feed and breed. groundwater Largest natural gathering of man- Environmental importance of wetlands supplies groves Wetlands are the areas where water Geologically, the reserve consists of is the primary factor that controls the en- plains of gravel, coastal and interior plains vironment and related plant and animal
October 56 2016 Shallow flats
life, whether natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, and It includes whether the water is stagnant 3 islands or flowing, fresh or otherwise. Wetlands include natural and it is and artificial marshes, coastal considered areas nearby, islands, parts of marine environment more than as a touristic six meters deep at low tide, riv- destination ers and lakes environments, mangroves and coral reefs. Wetlands are among the most productive environments in the world and a source of bio- diversity through the availability of water and raw materials re- quired by countless numbers of plants and animals for their sur- Mangroves vival. Wetlands are among the most important elements that enrich biodiversity because they include streams, and valleys, which naturally re- many aquatic and semi-aquatic plant duces the risk of flooding. In addition, wet- types that provide a home to many micro- lands can purify water through capturing organisms, aquatic insects, amphibians, pollutants into the soil and vegetation. and fish. They are also one of the most Wetlands contribute to the renova- important habitats for migratory birds thus tion of underground water supplies (wa- contributing to maintaining the ecological ter moves downward from wetlands balance between the varied animal and into groundwater). Wetlands also drain Features plant species. groundwater (water moves upward to the largest form surface water in wetlands). Wetlands Reducing coastal erosion has another environmental importance in natural intact Wetlands reduce erosion of beaches. terms of their ability to retain nutrients collection of It is also a natural system for protection (carbon storage) and sediments, and to against storms and mitigation of floods. maintain the stability of the local climatic mangroves They can absorb rainwater thus reducing conditions, particularly rainfall and tem- in Oman the amount of water that reaches rivers, peratures.
October 2016 57 An Eye on Duqm
A New Touristic Mohammed bin Ahmed Al-Shezawi Destination Editor-in-chief I often remember June of 2008 when I first visited Duqm in a press tour to prepare a report of starting the construction works in the Port of Duqm. And perhaps the first that caught my attention in that visit was the moderate weather of the city that started to write its new history from that point. Duqm seemed to me as a new touristic city that is able to compete with many touristic destinations, not only in Oman but also on the regional and international level. But how can it be part of with the international competition without having any touristic project? Maybe that was the reason why Duqm was not on the Local Tour- ism Map, as good weather alone cannot attract tourists who need a hotel to stay, touristic and entertainment activities, restaurants, shopping centers, and other facilities which the tourists expect in This is how Duqm any city they visit. seems to us today But situation has changed, today we find 3 hotels in Duqm with and that makes more than 400 room, suite and chalet. These hotels offer facilities to us optimistic for its guests. The city has become easier to reach through direct flights the future of this to and from Muscat – Duqm Airports. Notwithstanding the increasing city located on commercial activity in Duqm which encourage the private sector to invest in major shopping, touristic and entertainment activities. the shores of the As Duqm has witnessed this huge transformation in less than 5 Arabian Sea and years (the first hotel was inaugurated in 2012), we expect the up- Indian Ocean coming years to witness even larger touristic development, specially that the new map for touristic investment shows a clear approach to execute unconventional projects that will achieve a quantum leap in the zone, in a way that allows the tourist to enjoy the beautiful na- ture and the exceptional weather with a big bunch of entertainment facilities. This is how Duqm seems to us today and that makes us optimistic for the future of this city located on the shores of the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean. And we believe that the development that the Special Economic Zone in Duqm has witnessed since its establishment in 2011 till now, qualifies it to become a distinguished touristic destina- tion, as it has complete infrastructure like the Airport of Duqm, the port, the dual ways which connect the area and enable the tourists to easily enter the touristic areas. Also considering that the investment projects of public establishments and the private sector are maximiz- ing the touristic importance of the area.
October 58 2016