The picturesque and diverse Sultanate of Oman is the third largest state on the Arabian Peninsula. Due to its oil reserves, the country has achieved great prosperity over the past 50 years, although compared to other oil-producing countries in the region, it is only a small player. But Oman's infrastructure is in no way inferior to that of any other Gulf state. And as this country is being ruled with great foresight, diversification has become a priority, with natural gas resources and tourism being two sectors which are set to ensure prosperity in a potential post-oil scenario.
Oman's diverse beauty is breathtaking: the crystal-clear water of the seas contrasts with a honey-coloured dune landscape and the Omani mountainous regions, peaking at a height of 3,018 metres at Jebel Akhdar, are among the most impressive on the entire Arabian peninsula. Scenic roads in excellent condition lead to centuries-old fortresses and castles, shady green oases nestled in the valleys, or to picturesque fishermen's villages.
The capital,; Muscat, once one of the region's most important seaports, is just as inviting as other parts of the country. With its 800,000 inhabitants, who account for more than a quarter of the country's population, the city has an affluent and generous atmosphere with lush parks, magnificent mosques and white, modern villas with lawns in front, deep green due to permanent irrigation, while the immense swathes of white sandy beaches surrounding the capital are some of the most beautiful in the world. The historic centre of Muscat has been vigorously restored, resulting in the city having more of an authentic Arabian feel than some other capitals in the region.A stroll along the corniche, overlooked by twin guardian forts dating from the time of the Portuguese occupation, with a quick delve into Muttrah souq, is definitely worth doing. Muscat's highlight, however, is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, named after Oman's ruler and completed in 2001, which impresses with its gigantic dimensions and beautiful Islamic stylistic elements. A visit to Muscat would also be incomplete without a trip to Al Bustan Palace Intercontinental Hotel, even if it is just for some afternoon tea. This palace hotel, given the Best Hotel in the Middle East award several times, is situated 10 kilometres south of Muscat, on a white sandy beach, amidst palm trees and subtropical gardens. This is where Arab hospitality is at its best, which is probably why wealthy locals use the place for their conferences and family celebrations. It also serves as the government's guest house when heads of state visit.Well aware of tourism being important forthe country's economic future, the authorities do their best to ensure that growth takes place in a sustainable manner, conserving natural and cultural sites alike. Naturally, this means that every construction development, whether it is residential, industrial or for tourism purposes, has to undergo very careful consideration so that it does not visually jar with existing surroundings.
One such project is The Wave in the heart of Muscat, a developing landmark on the Omani real estate scene. The developers, Oman-based Waterfront Investments, National Funds Company and the UAE conglomerate Majid Al Futaim Properties, have conducted a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) detailing the project's execution methodology.
The Wave is a beachfront community occupying 2,2 million square metres plus 600,000 square metres of reclaimed land, stretching along the beach overlooking the Gulf of Oman and has already won several awards, such as the International CNBC Property Award for Best Architecture and several others for best development and best interior design.
The development has been designed as a mixed-use project with residential, leisure, entertainment and commercial facilities. The first phase of construction, consisting of harbour walls, land reclaim, site preparation and utilities, started in 2006, with the entire development scheduled to be completed between 2016 and 2017. It will include over 4,000 residential homes with a variety of residences such as apartments, villas and townhouses. Over 900 property units have already been sold, 16 beachfront properties auctioned and over 400 properties have been handed over. Due to Oman's new foreign ownership laws, foreign investors can purchase freehold properties and non-Omani buyers can apply for residency visas when purchasing property, an important aspect for foreign buyers. Currently, 50 per cent of the investors are Omanis, the remainder being from 34 different nations, making it a truly multi-cultural community.
A tribute to Oman's maritime tradition, and one of the development's most prominent features, is Al Marsa Village. This will not only include homes but also a 400-berth marina, a yacht club and a sailing academy. The village is intended to be the entertainment centre of this community with a wide array of retail facilities, offering al fresco dining and shops, making it one of Muscat's hotspots with a great lively atmosphere. A further great asset for the project will be a 18-hole PGA Links golf course, designed by the legendary Greg Norman, expected to open in 2011. Thus, Oman will rank amongst the best golfing destinations, adding to the unique allure of the country. Furthermore, the project will include 5-star luxury hotels including the Kempinski and Fairmont in order to show conclusively that Oman is serious about becoming a prime destination for upmarket tourism.
