Muscat: Orascom Development Holding announces today the appointment of Wael Al Lawati as the new Chief Executive Officer of Muriya Tourism Development, including the award-winning destinations, Jebel Sifah and Hawana Salalah. 

In support of Orascom Development’s ambition to be a pre-eminent, multi-national developer, Al Lawati will be responsible for setting the business agenda for the Group’s Oman destinations, including leading the overall strategy in alignment with Orascom Development’s strategy, facilitating delivery against the annual business plans and instilling best practices throughout these destinations. In addition, he will be an integral member of Orascom Development’s Executive Committee, reporting directly to the Group CEO, Omar El Hamamsy.  

Omar El Hamamsy, Group CEO of Orascom Development, said, “I am pleased to welcome Wael Al Lawati as our new CEO of Muriya and leading our destinations in Oman. I am confident that Wael will bring a unique perspective and strong track of delivering results to our team. His passion for the industry and ability to lead a team will open a new chapter of growth for our Oman destinations, Jebel Sifah and Hawana Salalah.”

Al Lawati brings a wealth of experience and proven track record of delivering results in tourism, real estate, and other sectors. As a seasoned Omani National, he has held several other leadership positions including CEO of Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN) and founder of The Wave Muscat (AlMouj). More recently, he served as Chief Operating Officer for a real estate advisory and spearheaded international growth at DAMAC Properties. Additionally, Al Lawati was a board member of Muriya between 2008 and 2015.

Al Lawati was selected as a member of the Young Arab Leaders, a group of the top 500 Arab leaders, and was a board member of the Middle East Leadership Academy (MELA). He previously served on the boards of the Oman Society of Engineers and the Oman Society of Contractors. His engineering background coupled with Real Estate Certification from Cornell University and Executive Education at Harvard Business School, IMD and INSEAD provide him with a well-rounded profile and track record. 

Wael Al Lawati, CEO of Muriya, commented, “I am excited to be joining the Orascom Development team and leading its Oman portfolio of destinations. Jebel Sifah and Hawana Salalah are among the largest integrated tourism destinations in Oman, committed to benefiting the local community and contributing to the development of Oman. I believe we have an exciting future in front of us as we capture growth opportunities in Oman and deliver value for our customers and partners.”

Jebel Sifah and Hawana Salalah are Orascom Development’s destinations in Oman, offering a wide range of activities and amenities for visitors, residents, and tourists alike. Jebel Sifah features miles of sandy beaches, a boutique hotel, an 84-berth marina, a coastline golf course, restaurants, and shops. In addition, Hawana Salalah is Oman’s largest integrated tourism complex and one of the most-sought after destinations during the annual and popular Khareef Salalah Festival. Both destinations are located near international airports and provide freehold ownership of residential units.