Musandam Targets Sustainable Tourism, Maritime Economy and Logistics to Boost Non-Oil Growth
Khasab, The Gulf Observer: Musandam Governorate is stepping up efforts to expand the contribution of non-oil activities to its local economy by leveraging its strategic location, rich marine resources, distinctive natural landscapes and growing investment opportunities in tourism, logistics and value-added industries.
The governorate is prioritising sustainable tourism, the maritime economy, fisheries-related industries and logistics as key sectors capable of attracting quality investments, generating employment and strengthening private-sector participation in line with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040.
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Qutaiti, Director of the Department of Trade, Industry and Investment Promotion in Musandam Governorate, said the governorate possesses significant economic and investment assets that can contribute to expanding non-oil activities and increasing local added value.
He identified sustainable and high-quality tourism as one of the governorate’s leading investment areas, including tourism and environmental resorts, marine and adventure tourism, as well as medical and wellness tourism.
The maritime economy also presents substantial opportunities, particularly in fisheries industries, marine services, boat and yacht maintenance, and port-related logistics. Additional prospects exist in light and processing industries, fisheries-related manufacturing, recycling and circular-economy projects.
Musandam also sees strong potential in logistics and commercial services, particularly distribution and storage centres and services supporting commercial and maritime activities.
Al Qutaiti said priority sectors include sustainable and medical tourism, the maritime economy, small and medium-sized value-added industries, logistics and supply chains.
He noted that Musandam’s distinctive geography, combining mountains, bays and extensive coastlines, together with its abundant marine resources, provides a strong foundation for the development of tourism and maritime industries.
Fisheries and Agriculture Strengthen Local Economy
The governorate’s existing non-oil economy is supported by a diverse range of activities, including fish farming, fish processing and packaging, agriculture and construction contracting.
The agriculture, forestry and fishing sector recorded growth of approximately 7.6 percent, underscoring its contribution to local value creation and its potential to attract additional investment in agricultural and fisheries production and related manufacturing.
Musandam currently has around 3,000 licences covering active economic activities, including construction and contracting, fishing, fish preservation and packaging, agriculture, shipping agencies, hotels, resorts and other businesses.
Officials said the diversity of economic activities provides a solid foundation for expanding private-sector participation, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and attracting investment into emerging sectors.
Infrastructure Enhances Investment Prospects
Infrastructure development is further strengthening Musandam’s connectivity and investment readiness.
Key projects include the development of Khasab Port, the Khasab-Lima-Dibba road, the development of Mahas Industrial City and new tourism projects.
Al Qutaiti said these projects would not only enhance infrastructure but also improve the overall business environment, stimulate commercial and tourism activity, strengthen connectivity within the governorate and facilitate investors’ access to markets and resources.
During the next phase, Musandam will focus on advancing sustainable tourism, the maritime economy, value-added industries and logistics, while empowering SMEs and attracting quality investments.
The governorate expects these sectors to generate new employment opportunities, strengthen local supply chains and increase economic value by connecting Musandam’s natural and geographical resources with production, services, tourism and maritime activities.
With continued infrastructure development and an expanding investment base, Musandam aims to establish itself as an increasingly important investment, tourism and economic destination, while contributing to Oman’s broader economic diversification drive and reducing reliance on oil-based activities.
