Muscat – The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) has introduced special tourism packages for the wilayat of Sur, the Arab Tourism Capital 2024. The launch took place at the Arabian Travel Market 2024 exhibition in Dubai on Tuesday.

Dr Walid Ali al Hinnawi, assistant secretary-general for Events and Media at the Arab Tourism Organization, expressed optimism about Sur’s success as a major destination for Arab and international tourism in 2024.

“Sur is distinguished by marine and environmental tourism,” he noted.

Dr Hinnawi highlighted the significant development in tourism in Oman, attributed to efforts by those involved in the field.

“These efforts are expected to bring significant returns in the number of tourists during the coming period.”

He explained that cities awarded the title of Arab Tourism Capital usually see a more than 50% increase in tourist numbers compared to previous years.

“There is a cooperation programme between the organisation and MHT, with several activities to be implemented, including training courses, workshops, and various tourism activities,” he added.

Sajida bint Rashid al Ghaithiya, Director of the Tourism Marketing Department in MHT, outlined the preparation of tourism packages in cooperation with the national travel operator ‘Visit Oman’.

“These packages are available on the Visit Oman website, offering a special system for booking accommodation and tourist trips in collaboration with the National Travel Operator,” she said.

Sajida emphasised the diverse options available, allowing tourists to choose from several experiences.

Emirates to promote Oman’s tourism

Visit Oman and Oman Airports signed a memorandum of understanding with Emirates Airlines at the ATM to promote Oman’s tourism packages across its global destinations.

Shabib bin Mohammed al Mamari, Director General of Visit Oman, explained that the agreement aims to promote these packages and identify potential markets interested in Omani tourism.

“The agreement will see the launch of specialised programmes with Emirates Airlines, including travel tickets, tourist experiences, and hotels in Oman. We will discuss the best marketing methods and launch a targeted marketing campaign to attract as many travellers and travel companies to Oman as possible,” Mamari said.