A world-class multi-cluster 1.5 million square meter entertainment and leisure theme park will be built in Barka, Muscat National Development Company SAOC (ASAAS), said.
It will boast an integrated theme park, a wildlife and waterpark, an equestrian center and edutainment center as well as multiple hotels, a residential zone and retail areas that will offer a range of retail, leisure and dining options, according to developers.
“The result of extensive local and regional research and consultation, this entertainment and leisure destination, in common with all ASAAS projects and investments, will support the Sultanate’s agenda to diversify the economy and drive societal progress,” Eng. Khalid Al Yahmadi, ASAAS CEO, said.
“It will, without a doubt, add new vitality and impetus to Barka and the surrounding area but the immense scale of the destination means that its impact will extend well beyond the immediate vicinity of its operations. Indeed, benefiting the country as a whole, it will deliver sustainable economic returns, attract investment, stimulate development and enterprise, and create a multitude of direct and indirect job opportunities,” he added.
Muscat Finance Corporation Limited (MFCL) has transferred, through one of its group companies, the plot of 1.5 million square meters in its project, previously known as Blue City, to ASAAS.
ASAAS, found in 2014 through the concerted efforts of key government entities and Pension Funds, aims to increase the economic contributions of the non-oil and gas sectors by initiating and developing sustainable projects to meet the needs of the public and enrich life in Oman.
Over the next five to 10 years it will develop a diverse portfolio of projects worth approximately OMR1 billion, which will contribute to the country’s economic diversification strategy and connect the people to the national agenda.
The Barka Entertainment and Leisure Destination is a key project to be launched by ASAAS and follows on from its establishment of SalamAir, Oman’s first budget airline, the announcement of Hilton Garden Inn and of a multi-use facility in Al Khuwair.
Source: TimesOfOman