Omran, the investment company developing tourism assets and infrastructure in Oman, and its joint venture partner, Musstir LLC, on Thursday celebrated the laying of the foundation stone for the Al Baleed Resort. A ceremony was held under the auspices of Abdul Aziz Bin Mohammed Al-Rawas, Cultural Affairs Advisor to the Sultan, and attended by Dr. Rajiha Bint Abdul Ameer Bin Ali, the Minister of Tourism and Omran Chairperson, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Marhoon bin Ali Al-Ma’amari, Minister of State and Governor of Salalah, and a number of honoured guests; members of the, State Council, Majlis A’Shura Council, and other distinguished honourees of the state of Dhofar.
The resort will become a key attraction of Al-Baleed, the cradle of culture and trade in the Dhofar region of Oman. The rich history of the ancient city will offer visitors an unforgettable experience, teamed with the warm Omani hospitality.
Abdul Aziz Bin Mohammed Al-Rawas, the Advisor to His Majesty the Sultan for Cultural Affairs, said: “I am delighted to be attending this significant ceremony especially that it coincides with the commemoration of Oman’s Fortieth Renaissance Day, celebrating the wise leadership of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos. The laying of this foundation is a further step in enriching the region of Salalah, and sets an example of how to create site-sensitive luxury, whilst conserving our natural environment.
“I would like to congratulate Omran and Musstir on their foresight and the synergy of their visions to create luxurious and sensitive havens that respect the authentic habitats of Oman.”
The resort is a joint venture between Omran and Musstir LCC, an MB Holding company specialised in real estate management and development. Work will start on site in November 2010 with the main contractor mobilising in May 2011, and anticipated to complete in December 2012. The extensive landscaped resort will feature 106 one, two, and three bedroom chalets, most with their own courtyard swimming pools. The main hotel building will house 30 guest rooms, recreation facilities, spa, F&B outlets; themed restaurants and function areas.
Dr. Rajiha Bint Abdul Ameer Bin Ali, Minister of Tourism and Omran Chairperson, said: “This will be another strong tourism attraction for Oman and a fantastic accomplishment for Omran and Musstir. This project supports our aim to enrich and further strengthen the structure of the Sultanate’s tourism and it will develop the tourism potential of the Dhofar region. This is in line with our vision for development, with tourism expected to be one of the largest sectors contributing to our nation’s economic growth by 2020.”
The Al Baleed, a 5-Star Resort development, adheres to planning and building regulations which are considerate of the cultural and social contexts involved. Furthermore, the project will integrate high quality and environmental standards in both of its attributes and operations.
Mr. Mohamed Al-Barwani, Chairman MB Holding Company LLC, said:
“As a socially responsible organisation, we remain committed to sustaining and adding value to our society, the environment and the economy, through all our projects. I look forward to working with Omran on this exciting project, and I’m confident that together we will be able to achieve our common goals.’’
The resort is located at a site with easy access to the major road network, where it is open to the sea in the south, with spectacular views of an archaeological site to the west. The overall site layout creates linear axes running North-South connecting the main frontage to the sea. The axes create good views and organize the large site into areas that are both intimate and connected to the generous landscaping. This geometrical base structure not only references traditional plantations, settlements and early traditional living, it also ensures that the built elements gain the best orientation for solar access, shading and air flow.
