Crystal Lagoons, the multinational water innovation company, has announced that it is targeting Oman as a key area for expansion in the Middle East.

The company said it has identified Oman’s tourism market which, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council, is expected to see investment of upwards of $1.7 billion by 2026.

The technology has already proven to be a major success in the GCC, particularly in Oman, where Alargan Towell Investment Company has started work on a 50-hectare multi-million-dollar, mixed-use development.

Crystal Lagoons will build a 40-hectare lagoon as part of the project, the centrepiece to three hotels, serviced apartments, a mixed-use souk and a host of other amenities.

Crystal Lagoons has also signed a deal with Palm’s Beach Company to build a five-hectare lagoon as the centrepiece for the Al Nakheel Integrated Tourism Complex (ITC) in the Wilayat of Barka. Construction of the lagoon is due to start by the end of March.

Carlos Salas, regional director, Middle East, Crystal Lagoons, said: “Developing Oman’s tourism industry is a top priority for the government, investment is likely to see a number of recognised hospitality brands coming into the market. At Crystal Lagoons our technology allows us to develop mass bodies of water that are not only highly sustainable but also offer incredible turquoise water ideal for a range of water sports in a safe environment, perfect for large resorts and residential developments.

“As investment in the country grows, as does competition. We can provide a viable, long term differentiator that offers something unique to other developments, we ultimately deliver the wow factor!”

Oman is renowned for having some of the cleanest waters in the world, as stated by a recent United Nations report.

In addition to expansion in the Middle East, Crystal Lagoons has also recently revealed plans to create a new business model which will see the company introduce Public Access Lagoons (PALs) around the world.

In the US, Miami will soon have the first privately owned crystal-clear lagoon open to the public through tickets sales while in Europe, Spain has recently signed a deal to open the first PAL just 30km from the capital, Madrid. Initial discussions have also taken place with developers in the UAE, with talks currently ongoing. Crystal Lagoons will generate revenue through a percentage of tickets sold.

Crystal Lagoons currently boasts over 600 projects in different development and negotiation stages in 60 countries worldwide.