Several travel and tourism companies have commended the progress made by the tourism industry in Oman during their participation in the "World Travel Week - Middle East" event. Organized by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, this event received praise for showcasing not only the castles and forts, but also the vibrant souqs and local customs that set Oman apart from other countries. These unique aspects contribute to attracting tourists to Oman throughout the year.
The owners of travel and tourism companies have expressed their belief that Oman is on the cusp of significant tourism growth. They emphasize that utilizing innovative communication methods will further enhance the development of relationships and the exchange of experiences within the tourism sector. The meetings hosted by Oman serve to strengthen cooperation and create new opportunities for the tourism industry with countries worldwide.
Ayman Al-Qudwa, a travel and tourism expert from Qatar, highlighted the remarkable development taking place in Oman. He praised the government's efforts to focus on sustainable sectors and diversify the economy, particularly in travel, tourism, and entertainment. Al-Qudwa also noted that one of the significant achievements in domestic tourism is Oman being chosen as the capital of Arab tourism for the year 2024, with the city of Sur taking on this prestigious role.
Ayman Al-Qudwa, a representative from the Oman News Agency, highlighted the unique aspects of domestic tourism in the Sultanate of Oman compared to other Gulf Cooperation Council countries. One of the key factors is the pleasant weather throughout the year and the diverse landscapes, particularly in Jabal Al-Akhdar in the Al Dakhiliyah Governorate during the summer season, and Dhofar during the fall season. These two destinations have become highly sought-after by tourists from various GCC, Arab countries, Europe, and Asia, contributing to the growth of the tourism sector and increasing hotel occupancy rates across different governorates in Oman.
Veronica Nabori, a visitor from South America, expressed her admiration for the Sultanate of Oman as a preferred tourist destination. She emphasized the country's appealing features such as its beautiful beaches, majestic mountains, vast deserts, and other attractions that captivate and entice visitors.
Veronica also highlighted the importance of the meetings organized by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, which facilitate communication and collaboration between international travel and tourism companies and their counterparts in Oman. These meetings utilize innovative communication methods to foster relationships and exchange experiences within the tourism sector.
Furthermore, Veronica mentioned their ongoing efforts to introduce South American tourists to the unique tourism offerings and hotel facilities in Oman. They also aim to familiarize them with the vibrant local markets and traditional industries that define the country. Veronica specifically highlighted the significance of traditional Omani industries, such as the production of Omani daggers, women's jewelry, perfumes, incense, and frankincense, which are particularly prominent in the Dhofar Governorate.
Glen Johnston, Vice President for Middle East and International Public Affairs at Aviareps, highlighted the diverse tourist attractions in the Sultanate of Oman. Each state within the country offers unique and longstanding historical advantages that appeal to tourists.
Furthermore, he emphasized the Sultanate of Oman's efforts in hosting international tourism companies and participating in tourism forums and exhibitions. These initiatives introduce foreign tourists to the rich cultural and historical sites of Oman. Johnston specifically mentioned the upcoming Dhofar autumn season in the Dhofar Governorate, which is expected to bring a significant influx of foreign tourists from various countries. This season is anticipated to boost occupancy rates in hotel establishments.
Rahul Sukramani, Director of Sales Department at the St. Regis Resort at Al Mouj Muscat, further emphasized the Sultanate of Oman's status as a tourist destination. He highlighted the country's diverse tourism components and environmental diversity, including mountains, deserts, and coastlines. These natural landscapes, along with the country's popular heritage, handicrafts, and traditional arts, serve as important attractions for visitors from around the world.
Sukramani also mentioned the continuous development and expansion of hotel facilities across various categories, which provides visitors with a wide range of suitable options. He noted a significant demand and advance reservations from tourists in European countries who plan to visit Oman in the near future. To cater to this demand, visit programs have been prepared for various tourist and heritage sites, castles, forts, and popular markets that characterize the different governorates of Oman. This surge in tourist interest is a result of the rapid and qualitative growth witnessed by the Omani tourism sector.
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism reported that the Sultanate of Oman welcomed 4 million tourists in 2023, marking a 36.7 percent increase from the previous year.
By the conclusion of the previous year, Muscat International Airport saw over 12.6 million passengers, reflecting a growth rate of 46 percent. Additionally, the number of flights through the airport rose to 95,000, a 38 percent increase compared to 2022.
According to the most recent data from the National Centre for Statistics and Information, the revenues of (3-5) star hotels in Oman reached OMR229.256 million by the end of 2023, a 23.4 percent increase from OMR185.772 million in 2022.
This growth was attributed to a 27.1 percent rise in the total number of hotel guests, totaling 2.71 million by the end of 2023 compared to 1.629 million in 2022. Additionally, the occupancy rate increased by 8.8 percent.
