Oman sees tourism future in golf as well as sunshine

MUSCAT - It may have year-round sunshine, sandy beaches, cliff-top forts and desert dunes, but Oman is hoping golf will help it lure more tourists as it tries to wean its economy off oil exports.

Today, the Gulf Arab country has one 9-hole course which is frequented by Western expatriates, businessmen and tourists.

That sand course has seen better days, but foreign investors are developing beach resorts incorporating luxury hotels, villas and condominiums nestled amid 18- and 36-hole golf courses.

At least 10 golf resorts are at various stages of planning or construction around Oman.

Canada.com, Canadace