- Oman’s tourism sector has rebounded impressively since the Covid-19 pandemic, with visitor numbers surpassing pre-pandemic levels and continuing to grow.
- The launch of the ‘See Double’ campaign with Ras Al Khaimah and agreements with Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Bahrain enhance regional tourism and promote cross-border travel.
- Oman’s targeted promotional efforts in India, including roadshows and collaborations with luxury hotels and airlines, have significantly boosted Indian tourist arrivals.
- The tourism sector is expected to grow by 7.4% annually from 2023 to 2027, with Oman recognized as a top-performing destination for tourist arrivals.
The Sultanate of Oman is increasingly captivating global travellers with its strategic location, rich history, friendly locals, and breathtaking landscapes. Despite facing setbacks from the Covid-19 pandemic, Oman’s tourism sector is rebounding impressively, reflecting a remarkable recovery and continued growth.
Tourism Recovery and Growth
The Covid-19 pandemic dealt a significant blow to Oman’s tourism industry, with lockdowns and travel restrictions causing a sharp decline in visitor numbers. However, the sector began to recover as restrictions eased in late 2021.
By 2022, Oman welcomed approximately 2.9 million tourists, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. The growth trajectory continued into 2023, with more than three million foreign visitors arriving, representing a notable 41.2% increase over the previous year.
According to Fitch Solutions Company BMI, Oman’s tourism sector is set to maintain this positive momentum. The average annual influx of tourists is projected to grow by 7.4% from 2023 to 2027.
This optimistic forecast underscores Oman’s position as a rising star in global tourism. The United Nations World Tourism Organization highlighted Oman as one of the top 20 best-performing destinations worldwide for tourist arrivals from January to July 2023.
Ministry of Heritage and Tourism’s Role
The Sultanate’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism plays a crucial role in this resurgence. Through strategic development plans, the ministry has been actively enhancing investments and expanding cultural and geological tourism initiatives.
They have introduced new tourism products and focused on leisure and adventure tourism to appeal to a broader audience. Notably, the ministry has collaborated with neighbouring countries to boost regional tourism.
In March 2024, Oman launched the ‘See Double’ campaign in partnership with the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority. This initiative encourages travellers to visit both destinations during their summer holidays.
Additionally, Oman has signed agreements with Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Bahrain to promote cruises across these regions. This collaborative approach aims to attract tourists seeking diverse experiences across multiple destinations.
GCC Visa Zone Initiative
In October 2023, Oman, alongside Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait, agreed to establish a ‘GCC zone’ for visas. This new visa arrangement will facilitate easier cross-border travel for GCC tourists, akin to the travel convenience enjoyed within Europe. This initiative aims to simplify travel for tourists exploring the Gulf region, making Oman a more accessible and appealing destination.
Appeal to Indian Travellers
Oman has particularly attracted Indian tourists due to shared cultural influences, convenient travel options from major Indian cities, and straightforward visa procedures. In response, Oman is intensifying its promotional efforts in India.
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism is conducting roadshows in major Indian cities in collaboration with luxury hotels and airlines. These events highlight Oman’s appeal as a top-tier destination for Indian travellers seeking a blend of luxury, culture, and adventure.
The roadshows are part of a larger strategy by Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism to boost visitor numbers from India and strengthen the tourism ties between the two nations.
The Global Trade & Technology Council of India (GTTC India) reported that the roadshows were vibrant and engaging, with Indian travel professionals engaging deeply with Omani tourism representatives. GTTC India emphasised that Oman is not merely a destination but a luxurious haven of natural beauty, rich heritage, and extraordinary experiences.
Growth in Indian Tourist Arrivals
Indian tourist arrivals in Oman have surged, reflecting the success of these promotional efforts. In 2023, over 610,000 Indian visitors came to Oman, marking a significant increase of more than 70% compared to the previous year.
The trend continued into 2024, with a 15% rise in arrivals in the first five months of the year. This growth indicates a robust and growing interest among Indian tourists in exploring the Sultanate.
Oman’s tourism sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth in recent years. With its strategic location, rich heritage, and diverse landscapes, the Sultanate is well-positioned to continue attracting global visitors.
The efforts of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, combined with regional collaborations and targeted promotional campaigns, are paving the way for sustained growth and increased international appeal.
As Oman continues to develop its tourism infrastructure and enhance its global presence, it is set to remain a premier destination for travellers seeking both adventure and cultural enrichment.
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