Wael Al-Lawati, CEO of Muriya, takes us on a compelling journey through the company’s vibrant tapestry of developments—each one a testament to thoughtful placemaking and architectural finesse. With a visionary lens, he unveils how Muriya is not just building destinations but redefining the contours of Oman’s real estate landscape
Words By: Vibha Mehta
Wael Al-Lawati’s journey unravels like a vibrant mosaic stitched together through experiences across borders. Raised in a diplomat’s household, he was exposed to diverse cultures early on, sparking a lasting passion for tourism. Although he began his career in the oil and gas sector with Shell, it wasn’t until he pioneered Oman’s first integrated tourism project—The Wave—that he discovered his true calling. By turning down a global posting, he embraced risk and played a crucial role in shaping Oman’s hospitality sector long before a formal framework existed.
His leadership later expanded to Omran, where he guided national projects and mentored future industry leaders. Positions at Majid Al Futtaim and DAMAC further broadened his global reach, before destiny led him back to Oman to lead Muriya. What began as a bold vision has flourished into a lasting legacy, and Wael now returns not only to nurture its next chapter but also to marvel at how far it has come. “It’s like watching a child grow—suddenly you blink, and it’s become something remarkable,” reflects Wael Al-Lawati, CEO of Muriya, with pride.
With a heart rooted in purpose and a mind shaped by a global perspective, Wael continues to steer Muriya with ambition and humility. His journey is a testament to the power of bold choices and the beauty of building something that endures beyond its beginnings.
Muriya’s Visionary Pulse
Muriya, a long-term joint venture between Orascom Development and Omran, was founded on a visionary principle: to develop self-sustaining destinations without overburdening the Omani government. While many investors sought incentives, Orascom prioritised independence, managing its own power, water, town management, and infrastructure. The goal was not rapid development but nurturing vibrant, long-lasting communities through slow, organic growth. From humble beginnings, Muriya has built the largest hotel portfolio in Oman, emerging as a beacon of resilience and commitment to place-making.
“We’ve never been in the game for quick wins,” says Wael. “We build with patience because real destinations deserve real stories. It’s not about selling quickly or constructing high-rises overnight; it’s about creating thoughtfully designed spaces that evolve over time, draw people back, and foster emotional connections. That’s how we believe lasting legacies are created.”
Today, Muriya stands as a vibrant symbol of its founding vision. Once home to untapped coastlines, the area flourishes as an integrated community full of promise. International buyers are leading the charge, attracted not only by Oman’s natural beauty but also by the thoughtful planning and purpose of each Muriya development. With two thriving marinas, world-class hospitality offerings, and record-breaking sales in recent years, what began as a bold and seemingly risky idea has blossomed into one of the region’s most distinguished real estate success stories.
Wael observes this transformation in figures and the spirit of the communities Muriya has developed. “It’s like watching a child you’ve raised come into their own,” he shares. Each year, the vision deepens, supported by a $750 million investment in flagship destinations like Jebel Sifah and Hawana Salalah.
Muriya’s commitment aligns seamlessly with Oman’s Vision 2040, which fosters job creation, enhances tourism infrastructure, and promotes diversified growth in leisure, sustainability, and community-focused living. As it prepares for new expansion phases and welcomes increasing global interest, Muriya is poised to shape the next chapter in Oman’s real estate evolution, enhancing skylines and lifestyles.
Slow Living At Its Finest
Oman is enveloped in a serene authenticity, evident in its timeless souqs, rich histories, and cultural harmony. As the easternmost point of the Arab world, Oman has long served as a hub of trade and tolerance, influenced by centuries of exchanges from the East African coast to Southeast Asia. This blend of influences is considered by Wael to be one of Oman’s greatest assets. “There’s something in the air here,” he adds. “You don’t just visit Oman—you feel it. You breathe its rhythm.”
At Muriya, this philosophy goes beyond being poetic; it serves a purpose. Rather than pursuing glossy skyscrapers or extravagant fads, Wael’s team is dedicated to preserving the soul of the land. “We don’t want tourists,” he explains. “We want culturalists—people who come to listen, absorb, and slow down.”
Oman, with its pristine mountains, fresh farm-to-table cuisine, and tranquil coastlines, offers a refreshing escape from the fast-paced modern world. Whether it’s walking barefoot on a breezy beach or enjoying the gentle rustle of palm trees around a family farm, Muriya creates experiences that encourage visitors to be present, not pretentious. The message is clear: relax, dress casually, and reconnect with nature, culture, and yourself. Each project serves as a quiet tribute to authenticity, reminding visitors that simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. For Wael, Oman’s true luxury is found not in grandeur, but in grace.
Nature Meets Luxury
Jebel Sifah and Hawana Salalah are two shining gems in Oman’s real estate and tourism landscape, each offering a unique blend of natural beauty, luxury, and thoughtfully designed living spaces. Located just 40 minutes from Muscat, Jebel Sifah covers 6.2 million square meters of peaceful mountains and coastline. It features the charming Sifawy Boutique Hotel, a serene 84-berth marina, Muscat’s first PGA 9-hole Harradine golf course, and the wellness-inspired Raya villas—an area where modern elegance harmonizes with natural tranquility.
“At Muriya, we don’t just develop properties; we create spaces that allow people to reconnect with nature, family, and themselves,” states Wael. “Our communities are designed to evolve organically, fostering both enriching experiences and a harmonious environment.”
Further south, Hawana Salalah spans 13.6 million square meters of coastal beauty in the Dhofar region. It offers 1,200 luxurious hotel rooms, Oman’s first water-themed attraction—Hawana Aqua Park—and a lively 170-berth marina teeming with marine activity. At the heart of this destination is the nature-inspired Amazi project, featuring sea-facing districts that combine events, adventure, and tranquil luxury throughout the year.
Sustainability At Forefront
At the heart of Muriya’s vision is a strong commitment to sustainable development and meaningful community engagement. Built on Orascom Development’s long-term philosophy, Muriya is creating destinations that enrich lives, support local economies, and preserve Oman’s natural beauty. Each initiative carefully balances environmental stewardship and social inclusion, ensuring vibrant, resilient communities that thrive across generations.
Muriya’s dedication to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles is integrated into every stage of development. This includes eco-conscious architecture along Jebel Sifah’s coastline and socially driven partnerships, such as the one with INJAZ Oman, which has empowered over 1,500 young individuals with essential life skills, career insights, and an entrepreneurial spirit. “It’s not just about building homes or resorts—it’s about building futures,” highlights Wael. “We want to leave behind something more enduring than walls; we want to shape lives and landscapes.”
Sustainability also flows through Muriya’s lifestyle initiatives, including year-round sports events, green building techniques, and landscaping practices that respect the native environment. As Wael puts it, “True development is when the community thrives alongside nature—not at its expense.” Through every thoughtful action, Muriya inspires a new model for purposeful living in Oman.
