(MENAFN - Muscat Daily) Muriya Tourism Development Co, a joint venture between Swiss-based Orascom Development Holding and Omran, is developing a series of fully integrated tourism complexes (ITCs) encompassing high-end hotels, villas and apartments, leisure facilities such as golf courses, marinas and other supporting infrastructure in the sultanate.The brand is currently investing in major projects, namely Salalah Beach Resort in Dhofar region, and Jebel Sifah and a boutique hotel on the As Sodah Island. Muriya's Jebel Sifah ITC recently launched its 100-berth marina set on the shores of the Gulf of Oman. The marina and the marina town are at the heart of the ITC that Muriya Tourism Development is developing.In the second of a two-part series on Muriya's operations, its marketing director Bahaa Hefzallah talks to Muscat Daily about the progress on the Jebel Sifah ITC project. How well is the Jebel Sifah ITC project progressing? When will it be fully developed?A large number of phase one components have been developed and are operational, like the marina and the Sifawy Boutique Hotel. In addition, we have handed over some of the marina apartments and villas. A variety of shops and retail stores will open soon at the marina town.Construction of phase two will commence soon and will comprise three beachfront hotels, an 18-hole PGA golf course and a number of villas and apartments. What role can Jebel Sifah play in the region's tourism sector as a lifestyle and leisure hotspot? Jebel Sifah is a value addition to Oman's tourism sector, with the natural beauty surrounding the development, the renowned hotel brands and world-class facilities and amenities. Jebel Sifah will be the hub of entertainment in Oman and the region. What will be the capacity in terms of hotel rooms and villas at Jebel Sifah when fully developed? Which are the international hotel chains that will operate there? More than 800 rooms will be available in Jebel Sifah. Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Missoni Hotel, Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts are among the renowned hotel brands coming to Jebel Sifah. How many hotel rooms and apartments have opened at Jebel Sifah so far and what are the targets for 2013?Sifawy Hotel with 55 rooms was opened in 2011, in addition to a number of apartments and villas handed over in 2012. More properties will be handed over in 2013.
