Thu, 19 May 2011

By Ali Ahmed al Riyami –

MUSCAT — As a part of the two-day Corporate Sustainability Forum (CSF) Oman 2011, which concludes today and was organised by AIESEC — Oman with keynote addresses and presentations being delivered by experts in the field and senior corporate guest speakers, the important issue of Sustainable Tourism in Oman was brought up as part of the forum agenda, at the City Seasons Hotel in Al Khuwair yesterday.

Abdul Wahid bin Abdul Aziz al Farsi, VP of Corporate Affairs, Omran, gave a detailed presentation on sustainable tourism and its importance with regard to the responsible development of the Sultanate.

He commented on Omran’s aims of making memorable destinations and experiences, which deliver long-term benefits to local communities and the national economy, while working in harmony with Oman’s environment and natural resources.

He noted, Omran has more than 10 projects that are either under development or in operation, including some of Oman’s most high-profile developments. With a portfolio of almost $10 billion, the company plays an important role in Oman’s long-term vision for its tourism sector — helping develop businesses that will benefit local communities and the national economy.

Al Farsi pointed out the importance they place on caring for the country and its natural resources. He said, in all of our projects we aim to nurture our environment, protect our heritage and work in harmony with our local communities. In this regard, they take great care in ensuring minimum impact is placed upon the country’s scenic landscapes and act to protect local wildlife.

Commenting on the important economic role of tourism, Al Farsi said: “Tourism is a priority growth sector for the Omani economy. In 2009, it contributed 2.9 per cent of the country’s GDP and by 2019 it is estimated to reach 9.9 per cent.”

In this regard, their projects will help to promote direct and indirect employment, income through foreign exchange and leisure and entertainment for local residents, he added.

Omran’s developments include many of Oman’s major new tourism assets and projects that are under development, such as: Oman Exhibition and Convention Centre, the Fort Hotel, Al Jabal Al Akhdar Hotel, Duqm Crowne Plaza, City Hotels, Khasab Hotel and the Millennium Resort in Mussanah.

With regard to foreign investments, Omran is working on more than 20 joint venture projects, with partners from around the world that include Orascom, Saraya and Daewoo. While Omran’s own investments include ITC projects at Jebel Sifah, Salalah Beach, As Sodah Island, Duqm Frontier Town and Saraya Bandar Jissah among others.

Al Farsi highlighted their ‘Intajee Project’ as a successful sustainable project, which has benefited local producers and families by helping to support family/home business, adding that, it is the first project of its kind; with the plan being that it starts in Mussanah and then rolls out nationwide.

He also listed the numerous crucial challenges facing the industry and why sustainable tourism is necessary for this sectors future and long-term benefit.

Source: http://main.omanobserver.om/node/51627