Salalah – As part of its ongoing efforts to promote tourism, Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) welcomed the first charter flight from Bulgaria to Salalah Airport on Sunday.

In a statement, MHT said this initiative aligns with its strategy to diversify tourism markets. The charter flight carried over 130 tourists, including 30 representatives from Bulgarian tourism agencies.

The purpose of their visit is to explore the local market, familiarise themselves with Dhofar’s services, products, facilities and its rich array of tourist and archaeological attractions. The goal is to effectively promote these offerings directly to the Bulgarian market.

The ministry’s efforts to boost tourism include promoting adventure, marine and culinary tourism, alongside the country’s Unesco-listed archaeological sites. The sultanate has also launched promotional campaigns in Europe and Russia and opened tourism offices in several countries. Expanding into East Asia is a current priority.

The lack of direct flight connectivity to Oman – a pressing challenge – is being actively addressed by the ministry.

To enhance accessibility, Oman has waived tourist visa requirements for citizens of 103 countries and is developing its 12 ports to accommodate the growing influx of visitors.

Dhofar is expected to welcome around 500 charter flights in the 2024-25 season.