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Ahead of its participation at OREX 2025 in Oman, Engineer Wael Al-Lawati, CEO of Muriya, shared how the developer is shaping Oman’s tourism landscape through destinations like Hawana Salalah and Jebel Sifah.
Muriya is a joint venture where Orascom Development Holding (ODH) and Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN) are partners.
Orascom Development Holding, a leading developer of integrated communities, holds a 70 per cent stake, while OMRAN, the government’s tourism development arm, holds 30 per cent. Muriya focuses on developing Integrated Tourism Complexes (ITCs) in Oman, highlighting the Sultanate’s history, heritage, and natural beauty
In this interview with Gulf Business, Al-Lawati shares milestones, investment trends, and how Muriya is aligning with Oman Vision 2040.
Tell us about your participation at OREX 2025.
Muriya’s presence at OREX was a reaffirmation of our commitment to Oman’s Vision 2040 and our pivotal role in shaping the country’s tourism and real estate sectors. This year, we showcased Hawana Salalah and Jebel Sifah — model destinations that exemplify sustainable, integrated waterfront living.
These developments fuse luxury, lifestyle, and Oman’s natural and cultural richness, demonstrating how tourism and real estate can drive economic diversification and long-term national value. Our participation also complements key government initiatives to position Oman as a global tourism and investment hub.
How do Jebel Sifah and Hawana Salalah align with Oman Vision 2040 and its economic diversification goals?
At Muriya, our integrated destinations are built in harmony with Oman Vision 2040. They contribute to economic diversification by generating employment, encouraging foreign investment, and promoting year-round tourism.
With over $750m invested by Orascom Development and Omran, we’ve enhanced tourism infrastructure and international appeal. Events like IRONMAN 70.3 Salalah, SOCCA, and global fishing tournaments have made our destinations internationally recognisable, attracting athletes and tourists from over 50 countries.
What are the latest milestones or upcoming phases for Jebel Sifah and Hawana Salalah?
Our destinations are in constant evolution. At Jebel Sifah, we recently launched Al Raya Villas — a wellness-focused, golf-facing community with private gardens, mountain views, and access to fitness amenities. The development also boasts Muscat’s first ocean-facing PGA Harradine nine-hole golf course, an 84-berth marina, alfresco dining, and boutique hotels.
Meanwhile, Hawana Salalah remains Oman’s largest integrated tourism complex with more than 1,200 luxury hotel rooms, a 170-berth marina, Hawana Aqua Park, and four residential districts. We’re expanding with new waterfront properties, lifestyle offerings, and high-end hospitality.
What differentiates Muriya’s developments from other resort or lifestyle communities in Oman and the wider region?
We don’t just build properties — we create destinations. Hawana Salalah and Jebel Sifah offer a blend of upscale living, leisure, and cultural authenticity. Spanning 13.6 million square metres, Hawana Salalah features luxury hotel brands, Oman’s first aqua park, and all waterfront properties with scenic views.
Our developments offer hotel-branded residences, marinas, golf courses, and global events that position them as top-of-mind for visitors and residents seeking unmatched lifestyle experiences in Oman.
How has your partnership with Omran supported Muriya’s growth and ability to navigate Oman’s regulatory environment?
Our joint venture with Omran has been foundational. This public-private partnership merges Orascom’s global development expertise with Omran’s local knowledge. Together, we’ve invested over $750mn, created thousands of jobs, supported SMEs, and delivered two of Oman’s most admired communities.
It’s a partnership built on trust, alignment with national goals, and a shared commitment to sustainable development.
What trends are you seeing in foreign investment and tourism, and how is Muriya adapting its strategy to attract international interest?
Oman is increasingly viewed as a stable, naturally rich destination offering long-term value. International buyers are drawn to the lifestyle, investment potential, and serenity of our destinations.
We’re adapting with a diversified property portfolio — from hotel-branded residences to standalone villas — while ensuring ease of ownership. Our in-house service division, Wateera, provides property management and rental solutions for global homeowners, creating a seamless experience from purchase to stay.
What’s next for Muriya? Are there plans to expand beyond current destinations or tap into emerging segments?
As Oman advances its Vision 2040 agenda, Muriya will remain a key contributor. Our focus is on deepening the value of Jebel Sifah and Hawana Salalah while exploring new lifestyle segments like wellness retreats and digital nomad-friendly communities.
We aim to pioneer sustainable living concepts, host world-class events, and continue attracting global visitors — all while honouring Oman’s cultural and environmental heritage. Our destinations will evolve into future-ready lifestyle hubs that serve generations to come.
