Muscat – The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP) has on Sunday informed that altogether 814 commercial establishments are taking part in the ‘Festival of Discounts and Offers’, which opened on January 9 to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the Accession Day of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.

The monthlong festival, which will continue until Tuesday, is aimed at promoting commerce, encouraging public-private partnerships, while commemorating the Accession Day.

The event is being held in collaboration with the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT), the Ministry of Information, Muscat Municipality, and the Consumer Protection Authority, among others.

Ali bin Hamad al Maamari, Director of the Licensing Department at MoCIIP, said that the festival presents a great opportunity to support the retail sector by allowing stores to offer special deals on local products and services. “These offers contribute to stimulating sales and creating a positive economic environment in the sultanate.”

Maamari added that the ministry continuously organises events and programmes aimed at fostering the growth of local markets by supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The event has drawn wide participation across various sectors, including retail, tourism, healthcare, hospitality and automotive services. Participating businesses are offering discounts on a range of products and services such as clothing, shoes, perfumes, electronics, hotel stays, healthcare services, food and beverages, and car maintenance. Shopping malls are also hosting interactive competitions and exclusive offers.

Raiya Salim bin Hamoud al Maskari, Assistant Director of the Tourism Marketing Department at MHT, highlighted the significance of the festival in supporting Oman’s growing tourism sector.

“These efforts have strengthened Oman’s position as a leading tourist destination,” she said, adding that the festival offers a unique opportunity to support the national economy by getting more hotels, which can in turn develop the country’s tourism. “Special focus has been given on the SME sector to add value to the tourism industry and attract both local and international visitors.”

The ‘Festival of Discounts and Offers’ asserts Oman’s commitment to fostering economic activity and supporting the retail and tourism sectors.