The Muscat National Development Company (ASAAS) is planning to develop a mixed-use waterfront project in Oman with multiple attractions as the country’s government continues on its plans to invest in its tourism sector.

Situated in Barka, the cluster of attractions will include the theme park, in addition to a waterpark, wildlife park, equestrian centre and an Interactive science and technology edutainment centre.

In addition to new attractions, the 1.5 million square metre project will also feature several hotels, a residential area and retail zones.

Singapore-based Surbana Jurong is the resort’s masterplanner. An Orlando-based firm will operate both the theme park and wildlife park.

The development is part of a OMR1bn (US$2.6bn, €2.5bn, £2.1bn) 2040 tourism strategy by Oman’s government as it steps up efforts to boost tourism with billions in future investment to offset faltering oil prices.

Oman’s National Strategy for Tourism 2040, includes a 6 per cent rise in tourism contributions and a near doubling of visitor numbers to five million annually.

Multi-national law firm Dentons is advising on the project, with the group signing a cooperation agreement last month.

“ASAAS has a very strong real estate expertise, which will stimulate economic revitalisation and benefit the community,” said Nick Simpson, co-managing partner and head of corporate at Dentons’ Muscat office, speaking to Construction Week.

“Adivsing on tourism and real estate sectors is one of Dentons’ key capabilities and in this project we will be helping to contribute to the government's initiatives to develop these areas.”

Other major developments in the country include the OMR500m (US$1.3bn, €1.2bn, £1.05bn) regeneration of the centuries-old Sultan Qaboos Port in the province of Muscat. Known as the Mina Sultan Qaboos Waterfront Project, it will feature a wide range of leisure facilities, including seven waterfront hotels, an aquarium, a yacht club and marina, an extensive children’s entertainment village, a retail and boutique shop district, restaurants, cafes and a marine heritage visitor centre.