Duqm, located midway between Muscat and Salalah, has become a popular summer tourism destination in Oman due to the efforts of the Special Economic Zone at Duqm (Sezad). The zone has recently inaugurated three new hotel facilities, bringing the total number of hotel options to 15, including 4-star hotels. The Acting CEO of SEZAD, Eng. Ahmed bin Ali Akaak, highlighted the importance of Duqm as a stop for travelers and families, with a variety of accommodations catering to different needs. With a total of 2,461 available hotel rooms, visitors can enjoy a comfortable stay in Duqm while exploring the surrounding attractions.
The hotel sector in Duqm offers a range of options for visitors, from 4-star hotels like Crowne Plaza Duqm and Park Inn Resort Duqm to 3-star hotels such as Al Madina Hotel and Asian Hotel. In addition to traditional hotels, there are serviced apartments, youth hostels, and heritage camps available in the zone. The mild weather in Duqm, with temperatures ranging between 25 and 32 degrees Celsius year-round, makes it an ideal destination for summer tourism. The zone’s proximity to the Arabian Sea and sandy beaches also attracts tourists interested in beach sports and relaxation.
The tourism investments and infrastructure improvements in Duqm have led to a significant increase in tourist arrivals, supported by direct flights from Muscat International Airport to Duqm Airport. Eng. Ahmed bin Ali Akaak emphasized the ongoing service projects within Sezad to enhance tourism aspects, including road development, electricity and water services, and drainage systems. The Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (Opaz) is planning to construct a coastal road serving the tourist area and modernizing the zone to meet urban planning standards. These developments aim to further boost tourism in Duqm and make it a premier destination for travelers in Oman.
Duqm also offers various tourist attractions, such as the Rock Garden in the Wilayat and the Arabian Oryx Sanctuary, which are easily accessible from the zone. Travel agencies organize trips to these sites and provide a range of activities tailored to tourists’ preferences. With its beautiful natural landscapes and unique cultural heritage, Duqm offers a diverse experience for visitors looking to explore different facets of Oman. The zone’s strategic location, combined with its growing hospitality sector and leisure opportunities, positions it as a key player on the Sultanate’s summer tourism map. Whether for a short stopover or a longer vacation, Duqm has something to offer to all types of travelers seeking an authentic Omani experience.
