Oman has launched a substantial initiative termed ‘Governorate Tourism’ with the primary objective of revitalizing and bolstering the tourism sector throughout its governorates. A significant investment of RO15mn has been allocated for 2025, earmarked for funding the most promising projects within this sector. The announcement of this initiative was made by authorities at the recently concluded ‘Governorates Economics Forum 2024,’ which commenced on Wednesday under the patronage of H H Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham al Said, the Minister of Culture, Sports, and Youth.
H H Sayyid Theyazin introduced the ‘Governorates’ Competitiveness Index’ at the forum. This strategic tool has been meticulously crafted to guide investments and pinpoint developmental priorities. The index is anticipated to play a pivotal role in achieving the objectives outlined in Oman Vision 2040, which was formulated to stimulate the national economy and maximize the economic and social impact of various development initiatives.
Furthermore, H H Sayyid Theyazin explored an exhibition titled ‘Development Experiences in the Governorates and Successful Models of Projects.’ The exhibition showcased the Governorate Development Programme’s trajectory, highlighting competitive edges, major strategic projects, the progress of ongoing projects, and key future initiatives across the governorates.
H E Dr Mohammed al Saqri, Minister of Economy, announced the commencement of the Governorate Tourism initiative in collaboration with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism during his address. He stated, “This initiative will empower the tourism sector by capitalizing on each governorate’s unique characteristics, fostering local communities, supporting small and medium enterprises, and creating new employment opportunities.”
H E Dr Saqri further elaborated that this strategic move towards enhancing decentralization and developing governorates aligns with Oman Vision 2040 and the goals of the tenth five-year plan. These plans aim to bolster economic diversification, broaden growth, and generate sustainable job opportunities by boosting sectors contributing to economic diversification.
H E Dr Saqri took the opportunity to underscore the government’s achievements over the past four years, noting significant progress in enhancing financial stability, a vital factor for realizing the goals of Vision 2040. He discussed ongoing efforts to drive economic diversification through dual strategies: improving macroeconomic indicators and enhancing national competitiveness, alongside the promotion of comprehensive economic and social development through decentralization and the advancement of the governorates’ economies.
H E Dr Saqri highlighted the impact of allocating RO20mn under Royal Directives for each governorate, which has resulted in a qualitative leap in launching new projects. The Minister of Economy stated, “The state’s general budget now includes annual allocations that support impactful projects, directly improving the livelihoods of citizens across all governorates and fostering social and economic well-being.”
