Muscat – Domestic tourism in Oman experienced remarkable growth in 2023 with the total number of visitors reaching 12.9mn, according to Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT).

Official data shows that the number of tourist nights touched 29mn and total spending amounted to RO829mn, reflecting a significant boost to the local economy.

Additionally, an MHT official informed that the sultanate attracted 4mn international tourists in 2023, underscoring the growing appeal of Oman as a global tourist destination. To further enhance the tourism sector, the sultanate has been engaging in strategic promotional campaigns and partnerships with global travel firms. The introduction of a 14-day visa-free entry for tourists is expected to trigger further growth in international tourism.

MHT is also working to meet its ambitious targets set in Oman Vision 2040 with plans to increase the number of international tourists to 11mn by 2040, thereby making tourism a key pillar of the nation’s economic development.

Speaking about the growing role of adventure activities in boosting domestic tourism, Ali al Hajri, owner of Oman Desert Private Camp in Bidiyah, said his facility witnessed a 90% increase in bookings in December 2023, a surge he attributed to the popularity of adventure tourism. He emphasised the fact that Oman’s rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, particularly Dhofar during khareef, have positioned the country as a sought-after destination for both local and international visitors.

While praising MHT for its efforts, Hajri called for a unified national plan to attract more tourists and suggested coordinating efforts so that the sultanate can further capitalise on its natural beauty and heritage to attract visitors.

Sheikh Suleiman bin Saeed al Abri, owner of Bait al Safah Heritage House in Al Hamra, echoed Hajri views, while also noting the rapid development of tourism services in the sultanate. He said establishment of Oman Tourism Association would play a key role in promoting Omani tourism, benefiting not only major cities but also smaller towns and the country’s UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Abri also highlighted the importance of winter festivals in attracting tourists and promoting lesser-known destinations in the sultanate.

Calling for broader tourism development, Abri urged tourism companies to diversify their offerings by focusing on underexplored areas in Dhahirah, Buraimi, North Batinah and South Batinah.

One of the key infrastructure projects Abri highlighted was construction of a bridge to connect Masirah Island to the mainland, which he believes would have a transformative effect on tourism, social connectivity and economic growth. Additionally, he proposed transforming the Safa Sands in Ibri into a premier tourist destination with upscale camps offering comprehensive services similar to the popular Bidiyah Sands.

MHT is currently working on long-term strategies to boost tourism’s contribution to the GDP. The sector’s contribution of 2.4% in 2021 is expected to rise to 5% by 2030 and eventually 10% by 2040, as part of the broader goals set in Oman Vision 2040.