Muscat – Winter in Oman is an exciting time. This winter, festivals have been held in various governorates, including Muscat Nights and Sohar Festival, which in their first editions witnessed diverse activities and thousands of visitors.

A five-day off-road multi-sport event concluded in Musandam in November, with thousands participating in adventure sports and enjoying the magnificent mountains and serene sea in the governorate. The second edition of the Empty Quarter Festival of Dhofar was held from January 25 to February 3, while the Buraimi Carnival was held from February 9 to 12.

North Sharqiyah is perfect for outdoor activities during this season. Popular for its golden sand dunes, the governorate hosts a variety of desert camps, which receive tourists from around the world. This year, the Desert Adventure Festival was held in Bidiyah from January 29 to February 3.

Winter festivals are good both for the local economy as well as promotion of the country internationally.

Do you think these festivals have helped boost tourism? What else can be done to develop tourism in the governorates? Here is what Muscat Daily readers said on the subject –

Rafeeque Ahmed
Sales executive

Tourism festivals in Oman are not up to the mark. One of the main reasons for this is lack of marketing. Many residents in Oman themselves are not aware about the festivals. The solution is to promote these festivals among residents first, at malls, in newspapers and social media. The place we can promote these festivals most among tourists is at airports and via tour operators, car rental companies and hotels.

Rashid Khan
Private sector employee

We can include sports in winter tourism festivals. Sports attract people and are good for both the economy and health and fitness of people. There are many sports events taking place in the country, but these are for pros. Sports events must be held for common people too.

Haitham al Kindi
Businessman

Winter tourism is an excellent idea to promote the country in the international market. However, hotels are too expensive and very few budget alternatives are available. Before attracting tourists, we need to develop motels and accommodation for backpackers.
Jay Prakash
Private sector employee

Yes, it’s the beginning of a new trend of attracting tourists to Oman to learn about its rich heritage and culture. Youngsters and students should meet tourists and share their insights on the sultanate. And tourists should be given the opportunity to explore remote areas in the company of senior citizens who will be able to introduce Omani traditions better.

Ruskeen S
Private sector employee

Winter festivals will definitely help domestic tourism. Authorities should give more attention to conducting children friendly activities and cultural programmes.

Kiran Choudhury
Homemaker

Tourism festivals in governorates have helped but for more success in each governorate, reasonably priced hotels and villas should be made available. Tourist guides should acquire in-depth knowledge of the region, and traditional culture and food shows should be organised.