MUSCAT: Oman, located in the heart of the Middle East, is a unique blend of tradition and modernity, offering captivating landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. Leading the way in positioning Oman as a top global travel destination is Omran Group, a dedicated organization committed to reshaping the tourism landscape of the Sultanate of Oman.
In an exclusive interview with Times of Oman, CEO Hashil Al Mahrouqi shared the ambitious vision aligned with the National Tourism Strategy, ushering in a new era of prosperity and opportunities for the youth of Oman.
Working closely with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, OMRAN Group plays a pivotal role in the evolution of Oman's tourism industry.
Al Mahrouqi, spearheading this transformation, emphasized the remarkable progress made in the tourism sector, proudly highlighting that tourist arrivals have exceeded pre-pandemic levels, surging from 2.5 million in 2019 to an impressive 2.9 million in 2022.
This surge in tourist arrivals serves as a strong testament to the rapid recovery of the sector. "We are not only bouncing back; we are setting new standards," he confidently stated.
The increase in tourism has had a significant impact on local employment, aligning perfectly with Oman Vision 2040's goal of creating jobs," he stated. Al Mahrouqi's passionate words reflect the Group's commitment. "Our main objective is not only to attract tourists, but also to build a sustainable future for our youth," he declared.
This strategic change demonstrates the country's resilience and appeal as a tourist destination.
In 2023, the tourism sector entered its recovery phase after the pandemic, witnessing a noticeable shift in visitor preferences. This shift has prompted Omran Group to readjust its business focus, going beyond traditional hospitality services.
"This year, we have shifted our focus towards creating unique and memorable experiences for our visitors," Al Mahrouqi explained.
"While accommodations remain important, our vision for the next five years revolves around diversifying our offerings to meet the evolving demands of travelers."
Al Mahrouqi emphasized Omran Group's commitment to making significant investments in key projects and developments.
This approach focuses on strengthening partnerships with globally recognized brands in the tourism and hospitality industry. Notable upcoming projects for Omran Group include the Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Muscat and the completion of the first phase of Madinat Al Irfan East.
In addition, the Group is making progress on initiatives such as the Bassah Beach Park in Musandam Governorate and the Eteen Camping Park in the Governorate of Dhofar, among others.
Furthermore, a report by BMI, a Fitch Solutions Company, highlights the significant growth in Oman's tourism sector. From January to May 2023, the country welcomed 1,548,630 visitors, representing a remarkable 95.1 percent increase compared to the same period last year.
BMI's analysis predicts that in 2023, Oman will attract 3.5 million international tourists, reflecting a 20.8 percent annual growth from 2022.
Moreover, the tourism sector is expected to experience sustained growth, with an average annual increase of 7.4 percent from 2023 to 2027.
OMRAN Group's recent participation in the World Travel Market (WTM) 2023 in London marked a significant turning point. The event resulted in valuable partnerships, including Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with renowned international entities such as the Barceló Hotel Group and Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority.
"These partnerships go beyond mere business transactions; they serve as a gateway to global markets and a testament to our increasing influence in the international tourism landscape," explains Al Mahrouqi.
In addition to these collaborations, OMRAN Group is placing great emphasis on the development of its human capital. In 2023, initiatives like #IAmTourism and the Najm Initiative were introduced to enhance skills and cultivate a workforce that is well-equipped to meet the demands of the thriving tourism industry.
"By investing in our people, we are investing in our future," affirms the Group's CEO.
As a result of our collaboration with Global Travel & Tourism Partners (GTTP), we are introducing exceptional educational material on travel and tourism to students in Oman. In this year alone, more than 100 students from schools in Muscat are participating in our pilot e-learning program.
Al Mahrouqi emphasizes the dedication of OMRAN Group to the youth of Oman and the national vision for 2040. He concludes by stating that our journey is not solely focused on enhancing tourism, but also on establishing a lasting legacy of opportunities and growth for future generations. His optimism for Oman's future is as bright as the country's renowned landscapes.
