There are many Real Estate Tourism projects now coming up in Oman, like The Wave, The Blue City, Jebel Sifah, Salalah Beach, Salam Yitti, Muscat Golf, etc. What is your view on such projects?

I think it is very exciting! These projects will create an interest and knowledge globally on what Oman has to offer, this however depends on how it will be marketed outside. We will also see an influx of tourists as such projects add value to the tourism industry. The timing of these projects are also right as a UN report says the number of people who can afford to go traveling will be doubled by 2020. Oman has an excellent tourism base with its natural beauty, rich heritage and safe environment, and these integrated tourism projects along with the tourism base we have will take Oman tourism to greater heights. 

Have you bought property in any of these projects or are you planning to? If so, do you plan to stay there or do you plan to sell it or rent it out?

I’m still considering, but waiting to see what happens in general on the market with the current situation, due to the current global economic crisis, real estate rates are dropping everywhere and it is forecasted to drop even further, so there is a good reason to wait and watch and plan on where it would be best to buy property.  

How do you think these projects will impact Oman?

Very positive! Firstly they bring a lot of opportunities in the local areas
In terms of business and jobs, but surely also put a spotlight on Oman as
a prime tourist location.

What are the other Real Estate projects that you would recommend which can benefit Oman?

Oman also needs some 4 star hotels, especially in the interiors like Nizwa, Sur etc as currently there are very few options available.