Nestled between the ocean and steep mountains separating the desert, Salalah attracts visitors during the monsoonal Khareef season of July to September, when light rains and cool temperatures from the Indian Ocean provide a welcome relief from the scorching temperatures experienced elsewhere on the Arabian Peninsula.
For the rest of the year the relaxing beaches and surrounding area are frequented by Scandinavian and European tourists taking advantage of the direct flights and warm winter sun.
Karl Litten best known in the region for the Emirates Golf Club in Dubai and Jeffery Myers of Litten Myers golf design, North Carolina have designed two very different yet compatible courses for the resort which will feature 5 hotels and a 200 birth Marina at Salalah Beach.
“It is essential that the courses are integrated into the community design to ensure social sustainability” states Muriya CEO, Cyril Piaia.
Bulk earthworks and shaping commenced 1 July and the latest variety of Paspalum is scheduled to arrive before the end of the year for propagation as the required import permits have already been obtained from the Authorities.
‘Salalah Beach’ is set in the pristine natural environment of the Dhofar region that is known for its temperate climate and beautiful landscape. Other than five 5-star hotels, 2 marina boutique hotels, two 18-hole PGA golf courses, 200-berth inland marina and marina town, retail, restaurants and cafes, it will also incorporate luxurious freehold real estate properties. Upon completion, it will provide the perfect setting for a self contained town and an indulgent holiday destination.
Muriya was established in 2006 when Egypt’s Orascom Hotels and Development (with 70 per cent stake) and Omani government owned Omran (with 30 per cent stake) came together in a joint venture.
Since then, Muriya has announced four ambitious projects across the beautiful locales of Oman. Two of the ongoing projects are integrated tourism complexes (ITCs) offering freehold properties – ‘Jebel Sifah’ and ‘Salalah Beach’.
In addition, Muriya also has extensive plans to develop ‘City Walk’ in Muscat and a Boutique Hotel on ‘Al Sodah Island’.
“Muriya & OHD are committed to build exclusive golf resorts that are environmentally friendly by protecting nature resources as well as preserving wild life habitat,” says Tony Aboujaoude Managing Director Golf Development & Operations”
Muriya Tourism Development www.muriya.om
Orascom Hotels & Development www.orascomhd.com