Al Buraimi’s resort sector boosts tourism, investment growth

The Al Buraimi Governorate is emerging as a significant hub for domestic tourism and economic growth, largely driven by its expanding sector of tourist resorts and rest houses. This development is bolstered by government oversight and a notable increase in private investment, transforming the region into an attractive destination.

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the sector has evolved from a weekend leisure option into a significant tourism and investment pillar, offering visitors privacy, comfort and an authentic local experience.

Currently, Al Buraimi boasts 18 licensed rest houses, comprising nine green lodges and nine guest houses, alongside three small and medium enterprises operating similar facilities. Hamid bin Rashid Al-Zaidi, Director of the Heritage and Tourism Department in Al Buraimi, highlighted that these establishments have evolved beyond mere weekend leisure spots. They now serve as crucial pillars of tourism and investment, providing visitors with privacy, comfort, and a genuine taste of local Omani culture and hospitality.

These rest houses play a vital role in the local economy by generating employment, stimulating commercial activities, and drawing visitors from within Oman and neighboring countries. The facilities often feature outdoor recreation areas, swimming pools, and family-friendly amenities, all while showcasing the region's unique culture. Al-Zaidi emphasized the department's ongoing collaboration with public and private entities to refine tourism services, improve infrastructure, and streamline investment processes, thereby enhancing Al Buraimi's appeal.

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rest houses contribute to the local economy by creating jobs, stimulating commercial activity and attracting visitors from across Oman and neighbouring countries.

The governorate offers a rich tapestry of tourism experiences, encompassing heritage sites like Al-Khandaq Fort and Al-Hillah Fort, natural beauty found in Al Buraimi, Sa’ara, and Mahdah Oases, and opportunities for family recreation and adventure. Interest in tourism investment continues to surge, with several new resort and tourism facility projects under review. The region is also actively promoting niche tourism sectors such as adventure, geological, cultural, and heritage tourism, including the innovative reuse of old neighborhoods for tourism ventures like lodges and cafes. With 32 licensed travel and tourism offices and active promotion on social media, Al Buraimi is solidifying its position as a dynamic tourist destination.

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the department is working with public and private stakeholders to improve tourism services, develop infrastructure and facilitate investment procedures to strengthen Al Buraimi’s appeal as a tourism destination.