JW MARRIOTT MUSCAT INAUGURATION MARKS COMPLETION OF MADINAT AL IRFAN EAST PHASE I – A NEW ERA IN OMAN’S TOURISM AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
In a grand celebration concurrent with the Sultanate of Oman’s 53rd National Day and in alignment with the National Tourism Strategy 2040, Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) heralds the completion of Phase I of Madinat Al Irfan East through the official inauguration of JW Marriott Hotel Muscat. This event marks the introduction of the globally acclaimed JW Marriott brand to Oman, signifying a momentous stride in positioning Oman as a leading global tourism destination.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by His Excellency Salim Mohammed Al Mahruqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, along with esteemed dignitaries, OMRAN Group officials, and key figures in Oman’s tourism industry.
JW Marriott Hotel Muscat, a 5-star facility with an investment of approximately 47 million Omani Rials, encompasses 304 rooms and suites. As part of the Marriott Bonvoy international hotel chain, it is the first JW Marriott branded hotel in Oman. Strategically located in the heart of Madinat Al Irfan East and directly linked to the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC), the hotel is poised to offer exceptional experiences to its guests, significantly contributing to Oman’s tourism sector.
His Excellency Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahruqi remarked on the completion of Phase I of Madinat Al Irfan East, stating that it represents a pivotal stage in the urban development of the city, creating a vibrant tourist destination that celebrates Omani identity. With comprehensive facilities like the OCEC, designed to global architectural and environmental standards, this development aligns meticulously with Oman Vision 2040’s objectives to promote sustainable tourism development, economic diversification, and preservation of natural resources.
Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, Chief Executive Officer of OMRAN Group, remarked, “This project is a direct reflection of our vision to advance the tourism sector by utilising our rich historical and cultural heritage to enhance the Sultanate of Oman’s position in the global tourism market. It plays a crucial role in contributing to economic development and is designed to provide distinctive and unparalleled tourism experiences that appeal to citizens, residents, and international tourists. Our commitment at the Group is to develop premier tourism assets that support and strengthen the incentive tourism, business, and conference sectors. We are also dedicated to elevating the local market and the hospitality and tourism sectors. Our efforts are geared towards enhancing the destination’s capacity to host major conferences, events, and functions. Furthermore, we are focused on augmenting the local value by creating opportunities for local enterprises, small and medium-sized businesses, and generating approximately 300 direct job opportunities.”
Sandeep Walia, Chief Operating Officer – Middle East, Marriott International commented, “JW Marriott Hotel Muscat brings together a legacy of extraordinary hospitality underpinned by the brand’s thoughtful ethos and our commitment to sustainability that resonates deeply with today’s global traveler. We are confident that the JW Marriott Hotel Muscat will elevate Oman’s luxury hospitality landscape with its inspired design, immersive culinary experiences and anticipatory service for which the brand is known. Oman is an important market for Marriott International and we remain committed to being a part of the development of its tourism sector and localisation efforts, and also look forward to setting new hospitality benchmarks across the country.”
Madinat Al Irfan East, now hosting JW Marriott Hotel Muscat, also features Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC), the four-star Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC, and the Business Park which includes the Omantel headquarters. This urban development represents a dynamic tourist destination that enriches Oman’s social, economic, and environmental aspects, reflecting OMRAN Group’s pivotal role in the nation’s tourism development.