Oil Shock Watch: With the Iran-US standoff still rattling energy routes, crude prices are staying elevated, lifting oil-reliant budgets even as global growth worries weigh on markets. Hormuz Pressure on Shipping: The US says it has redirected 78 vessels and disabled four to enforce its blockade, while reports of ship incidents keep underlining how risky the Strait of Hormuz remains for commercial traffic. Oman Roads & Mobility: Muscat’s expressway upgrade is moving ahead—MoTCIT awarded the RO157.2m expansion from Al Qurum Natural Park interchange to Halban, including signalised junctions and safer access points. Heritage Tourism Push: Bahla Fort hosted a Tourism Companies Forum, aiming to turn Bahla’s heritage sites into fuller cultural itineraries for both domestic and international visitors. Hajj Logistics: Omani Haj Mission teams have departed for Madinah to support about 3,000 pilgrims, with health, security and accommodation checks underway. Youth-Led Tourism: In Al Jabal Al Akhdar, youth projects—from olive planting to heritage village restoration—are drawing visitors and adding new experiences. Building Momentum: Oman issued over 40,000 building permits in 2025, with residential activity leading the way.