Muscat: Following the announcement of Oman's National Day holidays, scheduled to commence on November 20, there has been a significant surge in travel bookings among both citizens and residents, marking a notable 20 percent increase since the morning of Sunday, according to local tour agencies and hotel operators.
In accordance with directives from His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, the Wednesday and Thursday of November 20-21, 2024, have been designated as official holidays for both public and private sector employees, in honor of the 54th National Day. Although some employees may be required to fulfill their duties on these days, they will receive appropriate compensation in accordance with the Ministry of Labour's guidelines.
Whether seeking domestic retreats or international getaways, there is a palpable anticipation among the populace and residents for this extended period of leisure.
"In anticipation of the forthcoming Oman National holidays, we are dedicated to fostering family time through carefully curated experiences for each member," stated Jagdeep Thakral, the General Manager of dusitD2 Naseem Resort Jabal Akhdar.
"Our adventure park offers complimentary unlimited access, pool games, and a mini cinema. Additionally, we are pleased to introduce Bedouin-style tent dining, featuring live Arabic music and freshly prepared Shuwa, all aimed at creating memorable moments together. We encourage you to book now to ensure you do not miss out on this unique experience," he added.
Thakral further remarked: "Long weekends present an excellent opportunity for the hospitality industry."
"We observe a significant increase in reservations, particularly from families in search of distinctive staycations within Oman. This holiday is expected to enhance domestic tourism as individuals explore new regions of the country and relish the exceptional weather conditions," he noted.
The seasoned hotelier concluded: "At dusitD2 Naseem Resort, our mission is to assist guests in discovering the lesser-known treasures of Oman, offering experiences that capture the essence and culture of this remarkable nation."
In Al Jabal Al Akhdar, the Sahab Resort and Spa has introduced special rates for rooms starting at OMR70, which include breakfast and taxes. Similarly, the Al Nahda Resort & Spa in Barka is extending its holiday package starting at OMR45. Meanwhile, Dunes by Al Nahda Resort & Spa is offering a unique experience of Arabian sand adventures, starting from OMR100 for dune-bashing activities.
Arup Singh Deo, the Director of Operations and Projects at Al Nahda Hotels & Resorts, highlighted the advantages of promoting domestic tourism. "Long weekends in Oman are a boon for the hospitality sector, as they significantly enhance domestic tourism. We have observed a notable increase of 20 percent in bookings since Sunday morning," Deo stated.
"Our hotels are consistently fully booked during these extended weekends. Although there has been an increase in travel abroad, there has also been a surge in staycations due to certain inconveniences such as higher airfares and additional documentation requirements for family travel abroad," Deo added.
Deo underscored the attractiveness of promoting local tourism, emphasizing the diverse options available to visitors in Oman. "There are numerous opportunities for families, groups, and individuals to explore Oman. The favorable weather and a variety of entertainment options at hotels and resorts provide a broad selection of staycations and activities, which is why Oman continues to be a preferred destination for its citizens and residents," he explained.
In Oman, the allure of discovering the country's diverse landscapes - from mountains to coastlines - is undeniable for tourists, and the hospitality industry is keen to present the nation's offerings.
Moreover, many travelers are opting for trips to nearby destinations such as Georgia, Armenia, and the Maldives. These places offer retreats for families and professionals in search of new experiences without the need for extensive travel.
