Oman Botanic Garden Project Completed and Officially Handed Over in Muscat

Major Environmental Landmark Delivered in Al Khoud

The Oman Botanic Garden has been fully completed and formally transferred to Muscat Municipality, marking a significant milestone in Oman’s environmental and tourism development strategy. The project was implemented under the supervision of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and executed in line with approved engineering and construction standards.

Development progressed in multiple phases between 2021 and 2025. While construction is now finalised, operational preparations are underway before the garden opens to visitors.

500-Hectare Botanical Destination Showcasing 1,450 Native Species

Located in Al Khoud, approximately 35 kilometres from Muscat International Airport, the 500-hectare garden is the largest of its kind in the Arabian Peninsula and ranks among the world’s largest botanical projects.

The site features around 1,450 native Omani plant species arranged within carefully recreated natural ecosystems. Two climate-controlled biomes represent the northern and southern mountain environments of Oman, while six outdoor habitats simulate wadis, deserts, coastal salt flats and other distinct landscapes.

Research, Conservation and Sustainability at the Core

The garden is designed as both a public attraction and a scientific hub. Extensive field surveys documented hundreds of plant species, including 20 endemic species found only in Oman. A dedicated 20,000 sqm nursery supports conservation efforts, housing glasshouses, shaded areas and open cultivation spaces to sustain ongoing plant propagation.

Visitor facilities include interactive educational zones, research centres, event spaces and landscaped recreation areas. The project will also introduce Oman’s first cable car experience, offering panoramic views of the garden’s diverse terrain.

Sustainability principles have guided the design, construction and future operational model, reinforcing Oman’s commitment to biodiversity protection and environmental stewardship.

Driving Eco-Tourism and Environmental Education in Oman

The Oman Botanic Garden is expected to become a flagship eco-tourism destination, supporting environmental awareness and scientific research while diversifying the sultanate’s tourism portfolio. Enhanced infrastructure, including a 1.4-kilometre dual carriageway along Al Khoud Village Road, has improved accessibility to the site.

With the handover completed, the project represents a landmark achievement in conservation-led tourism and positions Muscat as a regional centre for botanical research and sustainable travel experiences.