Sama Dubai hosts Financial Times Executive Business Forum in Oman

The announcement came at the Executive Business Forum that was held in association with Financial Times at Muscat, Oman on 28 February. Over 140 key decision makers and investors in the region attended the discussions on Oman's vision and strategy for 2020.

Farhan Faraidooni, Executive Chairman of Sama Dubai, led a discussion on Sama Dubai's contribution to increasing foreign investment in Oman through developing the country's tourism sector. He highlighted the importance of infrastructure and human resources development and the reduction of unemployed by encouraging foreign investment.

Farhan Faraidooni said: "We look forward to developing long term, successful partnerships with host governments through a clear alignment of objectives, values and standards.

"As reflected in Oman's 2020 vision, the projected growth of its economic markets looks highly promising, building on its favourable demographics, good macroeconomic conditions, high liquidity, and a proactive government. Such initiatives are imperative for an effective implementation of the leadership's vision."

Other speakers included the Omani Minister of Tourism, H.E. Dr. Rajiha Abdul Amir Ali; HE Sheikh Al Fadel Al Harthy; the Undersecretary for Development Affairs of the Ministry of National Economy, Mr. Khalid Hillal; the General Director of Investment Services of the Ministry of Tourism; and AbdulRazak Ali, Chief Executive, Bank Muscat.

The Executive Business Forum also reviewed studies on the tourism, real estate, infrastructure, human resource development and investment sectors.

Developed in Oman and Bahrain, Salam Resort and Spas aims to be one of the finest integrated, luxury resort developments in the world. Each environment will allow it to capture the natural beauty of the area in which it is built. Each resort has a unique theme tailored to the needs of a highly demanding tourism market. Although different in their offerings, each Salam property will reflect the culture and heritage of its host country.

Sama Dubai is developing the Salam Resort and Spa Yiti in partnership with the Omani Ministry of Tourism. Located 15 minutes south of Muscat and spread over 3.7 square kilometers, the Yiti development aims to convey the true essence of Oman with its long stretches of beach and spectacular mountain views.

The property, to be completed in mid-2009, will include 5 star hotels, magnificent villas and exclusive apartments, surrounded by golf courses, marinas, a state-of-the-art spa, a wellness centre and an eco-marine centre.