Duqm is now much more than a coherent location in Oman (the Omani market). Duqm is quickly becoming one of the most notable coastal development stories in Oman because the Duqm Special Economic Zone is pursuing an ambitious tourism plan that centers around the luxurious, massive, and long-term diversification of the Omani economy. The Ministry of Finance in Oman has declared that by the end of 2020, total investment in the Duqm tourism sector will exceed the total riyals equal to US$2.22 billion (two billion two hundred twenty million dollars). This includes 21 hotels, 10 hotel apartment complexes, and one major multi-use tourism development, which will include hotel accommodations, villa accommodations, and serviced apartments. Based on the exchange rate of US$2.6008 for 1 riyal, the total investment mentioned above is approximately equal to US$2.22 billion.
Duqm’s appeal lies not in simply the scale of the investment but also in the shape of its vision. The tourism zone’s master plan consists of roughly 3,700 hectares, stretching along 16 kilometres of uninterrupted waterfront, thus allowing for a coastal destination that will be able to combine beachfront living with hospitality, recreation, and a variety of mixed-use urban developments. Officials have described the tourism zone as a means of enhancing Duqm’s existing strengths (e.g., ports, logistics, and energy) while providing a vibrant lifestyle and leisure economy.
Currently, the project’s infrastructure backbone is emerging. In August 2025, Oman awarded a contract for the construction of a 14-kilometre-long dual-carriageway coastal road to link the tourism zone with the fishing port and the complex of fisheries and food industries. In addition to being an important transport link, this road signifies Duqm is getting its shoreline ready for an exciting future that links access, experience and investability.
A strange attraction regarding Duqm is that it has what would be better referred to as a “dual” identity, as both an aggressive economic driver and an up-and-coming coastal destination designed with both visitors and stakeholders in mind. It is in an area where focusing on experiences instead of just size is becoming more common in the Gulf, and with a combination of government-backed planning, valuable beachfront development, and a clear long-term plan, Duqm could become one of Oman’s important new leisure spots if it follows through on its vision.
