The Sultanate’s concerted efforts to boost tourism are enriching the economy and preserving its rich heritage and captivating culture.
Tourism plays a pivotal role in Oman’s economy, contributing significantly to its GDP and providing employment opportunities to thousands. In 2018 alone, tourists spent over $4.6bn in the country, highlighting the industry’s economic significance.
Tourism is a vital foreign currency source, with tourists, particularly from GCC countries, spending billions in Oman. This influx of money supports local businesses, services, and governmental initiatives.
Oman’s deep-rooted history and cultural treasures are safeguarded through tourism, which funds restoration projects and fosters cultural awareness. Visitors are drawn to Oman’s unique cultural experiences and contribute to the preservation of its heritage.
The tourism industry fuels Oman’s economy and enhances its global reputation. With a diverse environment, pristine beaches, and historic landmarks, Oman’s allure as a tourist hotspot continues to grow.
Ambitious plans
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has ambitious plans to elevate Oman’s tourism sector, aiming for 11 million tourists by 2040 and a substantial GDP contribution.
Initiatives like the recent hosting of ITB Berlin 2024 showcase Oman’s commitment to development and global engagement.
Under the theme “Beauty Has An Address,” Oman wowed audiences with its natural wonders, modernisation efforts, and vision for sustainable tourism, leaving a lasting impression on industry leaders and visitors alike.
Oman’s adventure tourism sector is witnessing exponential growth, attracting thrill-seekers to its natural wonders, such as Al Hajar Mountains and Dhofar Governorate. The ministry is dedicated to ensuring safe and enriching experiences, aligning with Oman Vision 2040’s goals for sustainable tourism.
Natural gem
As Oman’s tourism journey unfolds, it continues to blend economic progress with cultural preservation, promising a vibrant and sustainable future for this captivating destination.
“First and foremost, Oman is a true natural gem in the GCC, and there is a huge potential for development of leisure ecosystems. More and more people are arriving into Oman for tourism purpose. Last year 3.4 million visitors came in and there are ambitious plans to double the visitor numbers by 2030,” says Sunil DSouza, Chief Executive Officer at TravelPoint LLC.
With more investments pooling in to the market to accommodate the growth, Oman is lined up to embrace a wave of change.
Sunil adds: “Oman has always been a major draw for tourists, as a greater number of people are opting to visit Oman for holidays, luxury weddings and adventures. Since Oman has a smaller room capacity, bolstering this capacity is paramount to attract a higher number of arrivals. Multi-billion USD has been laid out to develop hotels, leisure parks and other tourist attractions, as the tourism boom will create more jobs and contribute to a higher GDP for the country.”
Destination of choice
Every nation will try to brand itself with key factors that will help it stand out, and Oman has a lot to offer.
“Oman is a natural destination with so much more to offer. Mountains, deserts, tropical areas and plenty of adventure to boost adrenaline junkies and other tourists. It’s now becoming the family destination of choice.
“With varied and diverse ecosystems offering plentiful choices, it is a rarity compared to other GCC country’s attractions.
“Oman has a fine heritage that’s been preserved for ages amid modern growth. Also, Omanis are the finest Arabs, embracing other nationalities and cultures through innate tolerance,” says Sunil.
A lot has been discussed about self-sufficiency and transitions from the past to a more sustainable economy, and Oman has set its sights on tourism.
“Oman’s economy has set ambitious growth targets for the tourism sector to double its GDP contribution in the next five years.
“Tourism is creating more jobs than before. More and more Omani youngsters are joining the travel, tourism, hospitality, and aviation sectors, which will contribute greatly to Oman’s overall economy.
“Oman is at a crossroads, and its future is greater in coming years/decades, as it will become one of the most sought-after destinations for all,” adds Sunil, hoping for a brighter future on the horizon for the Sultanate.
