Wadi Darbat: A hub for youth projects during the khareef
These projects span a variety of sectors, including recreational activities, water boats, restaurants, mobile kiosks, handicrafts, and handmade products, alongside environmental and awareness initiatives aimed at preserving the wadi's cleanliness and aesthetic appeal. Their success lies in meeting local market demands and enhancing the tourism experience.
These initiatives receive direct support from relevant government entities as part of efforts to empower Omani youth to invest in the tourism potential of the Khareef season, particularly in high-traffic areas like Wadi Darbat, which has become a prime destination for pioneering projects that bolster sustainable local development.
The natural features of Wadi Darbat during Khareef have also enhanced entrepreneurial opportunities by providing an enabling environment to showcase products, develop business skills, attract tourists, and expand local economic activity.
Mohammed Mohsen Al-Maamari, owner of Darbat Park Boats, stated that the project officially launched in 2008 after a modest start the previous year, when the wadi suffered from low visitor numbers and inadequate services. He explained that the project began with just three boats and a team of four employees but has since expanded to include over 85 boats, with a workforce of 33 Omani employees and 15 expatriates.
Al Maamari noted that improvements included upgrading infrastructure and hospitality facilities, such as establishing a modern-style café. He emphasized that high demand prompted expansion efforts to reduce wait times, contributing to the revitalization of tourism in the wadi.
On his turn, Salim Mohammed Al Maashani, owner of Darbat Rural Retreat, explained that his project embodies Omani rural identity in a prime location at the wadi's entrance. The project offers an authentic rural lodging experience using natural materials like wood and clay, alongside local products such as ghee, honey, and pottery.
He pointed out that increasing demand has prompted plans for future expansion, stressing that such heritage projects help promote community-based tourism and support the income of local producers and artisans.
Meanwhile, Said Mahad Al Maashani, owner of Darbat Huts, shared that his project started four years ago with three huts and has since expanded to nine huts in two different designs. The project provides hospitality services in a breathtaking natural setting, with options for bookings and hosting visitors from Oman and GCC countries.
In the adventure tourism sector, Eng. Abdulhakim Amer Al Maashani, co-founder of Dhofar Tourism and Investment Company, discussed the Zipline project, launched in Wadi Darbat in 2022, with a 120-meter line. He noted rapid development, including dual lines for round trips and two experience sites, creating around 60 temporary job opportunities for Omani youth.
This year's plan includes constructing a main zipline with four outgoing and four return lines, which could employ approximately 140 job seekers. He emphasized the project's goal to develop adventure tourism and train Omani personnel to take on operational and managerial roles.
In the food and beverage sector, Mohammed Khalid Jaaboub, owner of Café Fog London, explained that his project was inspired by a love for nature and a desire to blend modern taste with scenic beauty. Located overlooking Wadi Darbat, the café offers a menu of beverages, desserts, and light meals in an elegant setting with indoor and outdoor seating.
Jaaboub affirmed the project's popularity among visitors seeking tranquility amid fog and greenery, reflecting Wadi Darbat's readiness to host high-quality projects that enrich the tourist experience.
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