Wednesday 21 / August / 2024
Duqm: When visiting Duqm, what immediately captures the attention of visitors after travelling more than 550 kilometres from Muscat, is the unique blend of modern amenities and traditional Omani culture, creating a distinct and unforgettable experience.
One can enjoy the privacy and traditional charm of the region, while also having access to modern 4-star hotels located off the shore of the Arabian Sea. Visitors can gather with family and friends in an estate during the evening or at night under the light of the moon or stars, while still being close to the vibrant Bedouin lifestyle. Here, one can savor Omani coffee and dates, and immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the region.
In addition to traditional experiences, visitors can indulge in modern cafes that offer a variety of coffee, tea, and other hot or cold drinks. The cafes cater to diverse tastes and preferences, providing visitors with a range of options to choose from.
Diverse cultures
Duqm’s unique diversity, climate, and environment are so captivating that visitors often find themselves wanting to prolong their stay in the city. This has led to a significant increase in population and urban growth in recent years. Today, the city boasts a vibrant mix of nationalities, cultures, and peoples who are all working together to build a modern city and an economic destination that caters to the needs and aspirations of both visitors and residents.
The commercial and tourism sectors in Duqm are committed to meeting the expectations of those who visit or live in the city. This dedication is reflected in the many businesses that have been established by the people of Duqm themselves, who are equally invested in the city’s growth and development.
A’Soud Global School
A’Soud Global School is a vital component of Duqm Modern City, providing a modern and inclusive educational community for Omani, Arab, and foreign students. Established three years ago, the school was designed to encourage families to relocate to Duqm by providing quality education for their children. This has been particularly attractive to engineers and other professionals who come from all parts of the world and want to ensure that their children receive a top-notch education.
Year after year, A’Soud Global School has witnessed a steady increase in the number of its students and has firmly established itself within Duqm. This success is driven by the school’s unwavering commitment to providing quality education and a wide range of educational, sports, and entertainment facilities.
Health Facilities
In a city where the workforce exceeds 18,000, it is crucial to have adequate health facilities that can provide quality health services to the population. Prior to the establishment of the Special Economic Zone Authority at Duqm (SEZAD), Duqm Hospital served the limited population. However, with the rapid growth of the city, there has been an increasing need to expand the health sector in Duqm.
To address this need, several private health centres were established early on in the establishment of SEZAD to cater to the growing population. Over time, the number of these centres has increased, and they now operate 24/7, with outpatient clinics covering all medical specialties and providing a range of scan, examination, and diagnosis devices.
Health and education
Education and healthcare are two crucial factors that people consider when choosing a city to reside in, whether as permanent or partial residents. In Duqm, which is still in its growing and development phase, these factors play a significant role in attracting investors, engineers, and experts who contribute to building the modern city of Duqm.
One of the most common questions raised by those interested in investing in Duqm is whether there is an international school to which an employee can transfer their family. The availability of quality education is essential for families relocating to a new city. Similarly, access to healthcare services is also a vital consideration for those who want to ensure that their families are well taken care of.
Aside from education and healthcare, there are other amenities and facilities that people consider when choosing a city to reside in. These include the availability of airports, hotels, malls, restaurants, cafes, and recreational and entertainment facilities. In Duqm, many of these amenities have already been realized, even though the city is still in its development phase.
Oman Bowling Centre
Said bin Nasser Al Jabri, an Omani investor, recognized the importance of having a recreational centre that combines sports and entertainment and meets the desires of youth to enjoy their time in Duqm. This led him to establish the Oman Bowling Centre, which is located in the new commercial district of Duqm and has become a popular destination for residents, tourists from Oman and abroad, and families.
The Oman Bowling Centre has 12 bowling tracks with high standard and accuracy screens to display the results. The bawling hall has high standards and specifications that allow it to host local and international competitions. In addition to the bawling hall, the centre has a variety of other halls that offer video games, modern electronic games, billiards, and snooker.
Due to the increasing demand for sports and entertainment activities in Duqm, Said bin Nasser Al Jabri decided to expand his project by adding three new buildings over 2376 square metres next to the Oman Bowling Centre. This expansion will include cafes, stores, gym facilities, and other sports activities, including two paddle tennis courts that will be established to international standards on an area of 400 m2.
Beladi Business Centre
Beladi Business Centre, also known as Beladi Plaza, is a mall and business center located in Duqm that was established by an Arab investor. The centre is situated next to the headquarters of SEZAD, and it is one of a group of modern architectural malls that contribute to the city’s urban landscape.
The total built area of the Beladi Business Centre is 7200 sqm, consisting of two adjacent parts: Building (A), which is designed to be a mall, and Building (B), which is designed to be an office complex. The centre’s marketing campaign focuses on attracting local and international brands in various sectors and businesses.
The investor behind the Beladi Business Centre aspires to make it a new and outstanding addition to SEZAD, as it is the first centre of its kind in Duqm to provide services to the commercial and corporate sectors. The centre is a suitable location for organizing various exhibitions and events, thanks to the existence of a big hall that can host many commercial and marketing exhibitions and events, promoting this critical sector.
Wide two-way streets
Duqm is known for its well-planned and wide two-way streets, which provide smooth and easy transfer for those who come through Duqm Airport, travellers, and the movement of goods between the airport and the port. Sutlan Qaboos Road is a significant road that consists of three lanes, connecting Duqm Airport with the port and passing through many investment areas. It facilitates the movement of goods and people between these two essential points in the city.
Another prominent road in Duqm is Said bin Taimur Road, which is located in the centre of the city and is a new urban landmark in Duqm. This road not only connects Duqm to various wilayats of the Sultanate of Oman but also offers a remarkable tourist route that passes near the Arabian Sea. The road provides a charming view of the beach and is the most suitable road to take if you arrive at Duqm Airport and want to go to your place of residence at Crown Plaza Hotel or Park Resort.
Duqm also has many other roads that connect the various investment zones and projects. In recent years, new roads have been constructed, and main roads that were started last year have been completed, making it easy for residents, visitors, and businesses to move around the city.
Hotel choices
Duqm has seen a significant increase in the number of hotel options available in recent years. Three years ago, the city had only three hotels, but today there are more than 12 hotel options available, ranging from four-star hotels with sea views to three-star and two-star hotels located in the central area of Duqm.
The increased number of hotel options has brought a variety of choices to residents, tourists, and business travellers. Visitors can choose hotels that offer scenic views of the sea or those located in central Duqm, making it easy for them to access different parts of the city.
A hub for tourism and investment
The increase in the number of hotel options and the development of tourism infrastructure in Duqm has made it an attractive destination for both domestic and international visitors. Duqm’s location, picturesque beaches, and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for tourists seeking a relaxing holiday.
Duqm is also an optimal site for those interested in practicing various sports hobbies, including fishing, diving, and other water sports. The city offers a range of sports facilities and activities that cater to different interests and skill levels.
Moreover, Duqm is an important site for those interested in visiting the Arabian Oryx Reserve, which is located nearby. Tourists can also visit Barr Al Hakman or other tourist landmarks in Al Wusta Governorate, making Duqm an excellent base for exploring the region.
Duqm’s investment identity does not limit its potential as a tourist destination. The city offers a range of attractions and activities that cater to tourists seeking entertainment and enjoyment. One of the highlights of Duqm is the Rock Garden and Duqm Desert, which offer a unique and mesmerizing landscape that is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Another popular attraction in Duqm is the Arabian Sea Beach, where visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery and the relaxing sound of waves. The beach is an excellent location for swimming, sunbathing, and other water activities, including fishing, diving, and snorkelling.
Duqm’s weather is another attraction that distinguishes it on the summer tourism map in Oman. The city’s temperatures stay within the twenties even during the hottest summer months, which makes it a comfortable and enjoyable destination for tourists seeking to escape the summer heat.
