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Observer
a day ago
- Business
- Observer
Foundation stone laid for Ashkharah Waterfront Tourism Project
AL ASHKHARAH: The foundation stone for the much-anticipated Al Ashkharah Waterfront Project was laid on Sunday in the Wilayat of Jaalan Bani Bu Ali, Al Sharqiyah South Governorate, marking a major milestone in the governorate's push to enhance its tourism potential and infrastructure. Dr Yahya bin Badr al Maawali, Governor of Al Sharqiyah South, stated that the project forms part of the governorate's broader strategy to boost natural and tourism resources, in line with the goals of Oman Vision 2040. Aimed at achieving sustainable and integrated urban development, Al Ashkharah Waterfront is envisioned as a modern tourism destination that respects environmental sensitivity while elevating the area's appeal for both residents and visitors. Spanning an area of 74,172 square metres, with 4,140 square metres of built-up space, the project includes a 1,860-metre main promenade and 1,800 metres of designated walking, running and cycling paths. It also features green zones harmoniously integrated across the site. The project will offer a wide range of service and recreational amenities including sea-facing restaurants and cafes, shaded seating areas, a dedicated children's play zone, watchtowers, guard rooms and multi-use canopies of varying designs. Reflecting Omani cultural and architectural character while incorporating modern lighting and accessibility, the development is expected to stimulate local economic activity and provide investment opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurs. Dr Al Maawali emphasised that the project embodies the governorate's commitment to implementing high-impact initiatives rooted in thoughtful planning. - ONA
Observer
21-07-2025
- Business
- Observer
Oman charts path to circular economy with groundbreaking initiative
MUSCAT: The Ministry of Economy on Monday hosted the second workshop on the 'Circular Economy Gap Calculation Project,' an ambitious national initiative designed to pave the way for Oman's transition towards a circular economy. The project will culminate in the development of a comprehensive roadmap, reinforcing the Sultanate of Oman's long-term sustainability goals. Dr Nasser bin Rashid al Maawali, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Economy, described the project as the first of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa. He said it aligns with Oman's commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. 'This vital initiative is centred on three main goals,' he noted. 'Establishing a national baseline to measure our circular economy gap, benchmarking against other countries, and designing a tailored roadmap to empower national capacities in both public and private sectors.' Al Maawali underlined the strategic value of this project in achieving sustainable, low-carbon economic growth. He said it would also open new investment avenues in green sectors such as renewable energy and the wider green economy. Ahmed bin Saeed al Siyabi, Director General of Economic Policies and Programs, opened the workshop with a detailed presentation on the project's preliminary findings. He explained that the workshop aimed to assess the initial baseline calculations for various sectors and introduced related initiatives such as training programmes and an interactive platform to showcase results. These insights were complemented by early modelling on how circular economy policies could affect environmental and economic indicators—including job creation. Attendees participated in breakout discussions, exploring real-life scenarios and modelling the possible outcomes of implementing circular economy strategies. Visual presentations also highlighted the progress made in assessing the circular economy gap, sparking dialogue among participants from government, private industry, academia, and civil society. The Ministry of Economy is leading the project in collaboration with Oman Environmental Services Holding Company (be'ah), the Netherlands-based Circle Economy, and other technical partners. The initiative underscores the strategic importance of shifting away from a traditional, linear model of economic growth toward one rooted in efficiency, resource recycling, and waste minimisation. As Oman continues to diversify its economy, the circular model is expected to play a critical role in shaping a more sustainable and resilient future. — ONA
Observer
24-06-2025
- Observer
Drugs one of dangerous challenges facing modern societies
MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman is joining nations worldwide in observing the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June 26, held this year under the theme 'Breaking the Chains: Prevention, Treatment and Recovery for All.' The occasion aims to intensify awareness campaigns about the dangers of narcotics and psychotropic substances, emphasise addicts' right to rehabilitation, strengthen community cooperation and enhance international collaboration in combating drug abuse. It also serves as an opportunity for nations to review anti-drug policies, assess challenges and develop appropriate solutions. Colonel Said bin Salim al Maawali, Assistant Director-General of Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances Control at the Royal Oman Police (ROP), stated that drugs and psychotropic substances represent one of the most dangerous challenges facing modern societies due to their devastating consequences. He noted that the drug trade is a major funding source for transnational criminal organisations. Global indicators show over 275 million drug addicts worldwide, with the World Health Organization estimating more than 500,000 annual deaths linked to drug abuse — necessitating unified policies, shared expertise, and heightened cultural and educational awareness. Colonel Al Maawali emphasised that international cooperation is vital in combating drug smuggling and trafficking, as criminal networks employ sophisticated cross-border methods. Information exchange, joint policing operations, harmonised legislation and expertise sharing are crucial to dismantling these networks. The ROP's General Directorate for Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances Control has adopted an integrated approach — supported by police, security, military and civil entities — to counter drug trafficking. Efforts have successfully uncovered international syndicates smuggling narcotics through land, sea and air borders, as well as via social media platforms used to lure youth into drug use. He explained that the departments concerned in Oman provide rehabilitation opportunities for addicts under Article 51 of the Anti-Narcotics Law, which exempts self-referred or family-reported addicts from prosecution. Post-treatment reintegration programmes ensure confidentiality under Article 52, with penalties for breaches. Colonel Al Maawali said that crystal meth poses a significant global threat due to its low cost, ease of production and severe health impacts, including fatal outcomes. Traffickers exploit victims — particularly youth — through financial incentives, blackmail, fake friendships, emotional manipulation, and even virtual reality platforms and celebrity endorsements promoting false cultural narratives about drug use. The Directorate prioritises prevention through social media campaigns, conferences and seminars. Innovative tools like virtual reality (VR) and smart applications are being introduced to enhance public education and counselling services, he pointed out. Colonel Al Maawali stressed families' role in monitoring children and urged community cooperation with security forces to report drug-related activities, encourage treatment-seeking and foster a drug-free society for national stability. - ONA
Observer
15-06-2025
- Business
- Observer
RO 4.5 million in development projects in Al Batinah South
AL RUSTAQ: Al Batinah South Governorate is pressing ahead with a series of infrastructure and development projects worth RO 4.5 million, aimed at stimulating investment, trade and tourism across its wilayats. The projects are being overseen by the Governor's Office through its Development Committee, which plays a key role in advancing the governorate's strategic growth agenda. According to Saud bin Said al Maawali, Deputy Chairman of the Municipal Council and Head of the Development Committee, the projects reflect broader efforts to strengthen the local economy, support small and medium enterprises (SMEs), generate employment for youth and enhance infrastructure and tourism offerings. Al Maawali said the projects are aligned with Oman's decentralisation policy and form part of the national economic transformation strategy under the Tenth Five-Year Plan and Oman Vision 2040. 'We are focusing on initiatives that not only enhance public services and amenities but also promote economic vibrancy and community well-being,' he added. Among the major undertakings is the Barka Waterfront Development Project in Al Muraisi, which stretches over two kilometres and is designed to become a major recreational and tourism hub. With an investment of RO 1.9 million and 55% of construction completed, the project will feature sports and entertainment facilities, support services for tourists and designated investment zones aimed at creating jobs for locals. In Al Musannah, a similar waterfront development is underway in Al Awaid at a cost of RO 1.7 million. Currently 35% complete, the project spans two kilometres and includes plans for restaurants, commercial outlets, children's play areas and sports facilities to enhance the area's appeal for residents and visitors alike. Other key initiatives include the Wadi Al Maawil Commercial Market, which is nearly complete with a 95% construction rate. Covering 16,000 square metres and comprising 27 shops, the RO 319,000 project is expected to become a focal point for commerce and tourism in the wilayat. Meanwhile, the Al Awabi Commercial Market, built over 1,200 square metres with an investment of RO 200,000, has reached 70% completion. The project will house 16 shops and is part of ongoing efforts to revitalise economic and social activity in Al Awabi. Another significant development is the upgrade of Nakhal Public Park, which is 70% complete at a cost of RO 452,000. Enhancements include new recreational facilities and improved infrastructure to transform the park into a major family and tourism destination. The project also includes three dedicated spaces for SMEs and local family businesses, offering fresh investment opportunities in Nakhal and surrounding areas.— ONA
Observer
14-05-2025
- Politics
- Observer
Council of Oman at OIC Parliamentary Union session
JAKARTA: The Council of Oman participated in the 19th session of the Conference of the Parliamentary Union of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), held in the Indonesian capital, Jakarta, on Wednesday. The Council of Oman's delegation was headed by Khalid bin Hilal al Maawali, Chairman of Majlis Ash'shura. He delivered at the opening session in which he emphasised that the Sultanate of Oman's experience in promoting good governance has always been a focus of attention in shaping the future and planning the country's national visions. He added: 'Through Oman Vision 2040, the government has attached great attention to the principle of governance due to its importance in promoting comprehensive national development. Governance has been adopted as one of the fundamental principles for achieving efficiency in institutional performance and ensuring transparency and integrity. Oman Vision 2040 seeks to establish an integrated system of good governance based on the foundations of accountability, justice and the rule of law while adopting the best administrative and technical practices to ensure the quality and sustainability of government services. The vision also emphasises the importance of involving the community in decision-making and achieving a balance between economic growth and social development within an effective and transparent regulatory environment.' 'In our discussion of good governance and strong institutions, we have to point to the alarming international failure to address the humanitarian tragedies, flagrant violations of international law, the absence of justice and the violation of human rights inflicted on the Palestinian people particularly in Gaza. The horrific events in Gaza have exposed the absence of fair global governance and the weakness of the international accountability system which led to the continuation of the occupation, the exacerbation of suffering and the loss of hope,' Al Maawali said. The Council of Oman's delegation participating in the 19th session of the Conference of the Parliamentary Union of the OIC comprises SShaikh Ahmed bin Mohammed al Nadabi, Secretary-General of Majlis Ash'shura; Mohammed bin Salem al Harthy, Member of the State Council; Khalil bin Khalfan al Wahaibi, Said bin Mohammed al Saadi and Younis bin Mohammed al Siyabi, members of the Majlis Ash'shura. — ONA
