Governorates work on aligning urban strategies with Vision 2040
In Haima, a workshop was held on Monday to assess progress of the urban strategy for Al Wusta. The session was organised jointly by the Governor's Office and Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning. It focused on monitoring implementation of strategic goals, project classification and data management.
Participants agreed on a joint working mechanism between the Governor's Office and Directorate of Housing to coordinate development efforts. The workshop also addressed key challenges in data updates and reviewed possible solutions. Officials stressed the need for effective communication among relevant bodies to ensure integration across sectors.
The workshop was attended by Sheikh Mohammed Ali al Ghafaili, Wali of Haima, and several local officials.
In Ibri, a workshop was held on Sunday themed 'Defining the Strategic Goal of Dhahirah'. It brought together representatives of government bodies, the private sector and local community. Discussions centred on the governorate's strategic vision, drawing on its comparative advantages to guide future planning.
The workshop was part of the first phase of the Dhahirah Strategy Development Project, which seeks to position the governorate as a gateway linking Oman with neighbouring countries. The project follows a participatory approach and aims to develop an inclusive roadmap with clear implementation steps.
Both workshops reflect the sultanate's broader decentralisation efforts and the growing role of governorates in shaping local development agendas.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Observer
35 minutes ago
- Observer
Development Bank loan approvals rise 13% to RO 110 million in H1 2025
BUSINESS REPORTER MUSCAT, JULY 27 Development Bank has approved 3,716 loans worth RO 110 million ($286 million) during the first six months of 2025, marking a 13% increase compared to the same period last year. This growth reflects the bank's commitment to supporting Oman Vision 2040 by promoting economic diversification and strengthening the private sector across the country. 'The loans and programs we provide contribute substantial added value to our national economy,' said Hamad al Harthi, MSME Chief & Portfolio Management, Development Bank. 'We're helping meet food security requirements, reduce reliance on imports and encourage entrepreneurs to pursue new opportunities.' The bank's success stems from its tailored approach that recognizes the unique needs of businesses at different stages of development. 'We craft solutions that align with their business strategies,' Al Harthi explained, enabling both start-ups and established companies to grow and expand their operations. Building on this comprehensive strategy, H1 financing was distributed across key economic sectors that drive national development. Manufacturing received the largest allocation at RO 38 million ($99 million) reflecting the sector's important role in reducing import dependence. General professional services attracted RO 19 million ($49 million) while traditional sectors also saw strong support with fisheries receiving RO 14 million ($36 million), agriculture RO9 million ($23 million) and mining RO8 million ($21 million). This sector-focused approach was matched by broad geographical reach across Oman. Muscat Governorate received RO 25 million ($65 million) while regional development was supported through considerable allocations to North Al Batinah at RO18 million ($47 million) and South Al Sharqiyah at RO 14 million ($36 million). South Al Batinah received RO 11 million ($29 million) and Al Wusta Governorate RO8 million ($21 million) ensuring development opportunities reach communities nationwide. The increased lending demonstrates the bank's commitment to supporting businesses of all sizes, from start-ups and SMEs to large corporates. This approach enables entrepreneurs to implement projects across growth-driving sectors while maximizing local value creation and contributing to Oman's strategic economic goals. As part of a broader ecosystem of government organizations aligned with Oman Vision 2040, Development Bank continues to provide support and incentives to strengthen national industries and promote in-country value. 'Our shared goal is sustainable and inclusive progress,' Al Harthi concluded. 'We're proud that our support is helping ambitious, growing companies fulfill their potential while driving economic transformation.' Development Bank (DB) is a key enabler of economic growth, providing innovative financing solutions to support Oman's Vision 2040 and the transition to a diversified, sustainable economy. DB offers tailored financial products and services to a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, fisheries, tourism, manufacturing, renewable energy, health, education and logistics, focusing on projects that drive in-country value and job creation. Caption: H1 financing was distributed across key economic sectors that drive national development.
Observer
7 hours ago
- Observer
IHG Hotels & Resorts announces first voco hotel in Oman
IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of a management agreement for voco Muscat Al Mouj, a 251-key beachfront hotel set to open in Q4 2025. Alongside Golden Group Holding, the deal marks the first signing of the voco brand in the Sultanate of Oman, further expanding IHG's premium portfolio across the Middle East. The new hotel will cater to both leisure and business travellers. Its prime location offers easy access to Muscat International Airport and proximity to the city's cultural landmarks, making it a strategic addition to Oman's evolving hospitality landscape. Launched in 2018, voco is IHG's fastest-growing premium brand, already making its mark with openings and signings across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Known for its bold identity and thoughtful touches, the brand blends the character of individual hotels with the benefits of a trusted global name, offering guests a reliably different experience. Upon opening, voco Muscat Al Mouj will join the brand's growing portfolio of more than 100 open hotels globally and a robust pipeline of more than 95 properties. Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, IHG Hotels & Resorts, India, Middle East & Africa, said: "We are delighted to bring the voco brand to Oman in partnership with Golden Group Holding. Al Mouj Muscat is one of the region's most exciting lifestyle destinations, and we believe voco's distinctive charm and premium hospitality offering makes it a perfect fit for the destination. This signing reflects our commitment to supporting Oman Vision 2040 by contributing to the country's tourism and economic diversification strategy." Sheikh Salem Al Ghazal, Chairman, Golden Group Holding, said, 'Partnering with IHG to introduce voco to Oman is a significant milestone in our journey to enhance Muscat's hospitality offering. voco's blend of informal charm and global quality perfectly complements the dynamic spirit of Al Mouj. We look forward to delivering a hotel that embodies excellence, reflects Omani hospitality, and attracts travellers from across the globe." When it opens later this year, voco Muscat Al Mouj will offer 251 designed rooms and suites, along with five distinct dining experiences, including an all-day dining venue, specialty restaurant, and lobby lounge. The hotel will feature three meeting rooms, a spa, swimming pool, fitness centre, business centre, ample parking, and a barber shop – providing guests with a well-rounded premium stay experience. IHG currently operates 9 hotels across five brands in Oman, including: Six Senses, InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Hotel Indigo, and Holiday Inn, with 3 hotels in the development pipeline set to open within the next three to five years.
Muscat Daily
a day ago
- Muscat Daily
Manufacturing, FDI and exports drive Oman's industrial momentum
Muscat – The industrial sector recorded a 27.5% increase in foreign direct investment during the first quarter of 2025, taking total FDI in the sector to RO2.749bn, according to figures released by Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP). The manufacturing sector also posted steady gains, supported by higher demand across regional and international markets. Non-oil exports grew 7.2% between January and May 2025 to RO2.7bn. The United Arab Emirates remained the top importer of Omani goods with RO485mn, up 22.9%, followed by Saudi Arabia at RO451mn, up 34.9%, and India with RO280mn, up 38.9%. H E Dr Saleh bin Saeed Masan, Undersecretary for Commerce and Industry, said the figures reflect the impact of policies to build a resilient and competitive industrial base, in line with Vision 2040 and Industrial Strategy 2040. He highlighted the role of incentive plans and efforts to improve services in industrial zones. Khalid bin Salim al Qassabi, Director General of Industry, noted that Omani factories managed to expand production despite global market volatility and supply chain pressures. He attributed this to public-private sector collaboration and reduced operational costs, which led to higher project activity and improved Omanisation rates in industrial zones. MoCIIP continues to support initiatives focused on local value chains and broadening the national production base. Khalid bin Salim al Qassabi, Director General of Industry Jassim bin Saif al Jadidi, Technical Director at the Undersecretary's Office, said investor confidence remains strong due to improvements in the business environment, updated regulatory frameworks and enhanced incentives. These include targeted industrial financing, logistics upgrades, technology localisation and international partnerships. The petrochemical and electrical conductors sectors led the growth in manufacturing. Iron and aluminium industries also reported consistent gains, while cement companies began to recover from earlier losses. Tiles and ceramic production showed signs of revival, though glass manufacturers continued to face operational issues. Jassim bin Saif al Jadidi, Technical Director at the Undersecretary's Office Food processing firms – including milling and beverage producers – posted higher profits, driven by operational efficiency and increased demand across local and regional markets. Investments were concentrated in sectors identified as strategic – renewable energy technologies aligned with Oman's green economy goals; mineral production and exports; and food and medical industries supporting national security.
