Muscat – Oman and Nepal on Wednesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in the tourism sector.

The MoU was signed by H E Salem bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, and Arzu Rana Deuba, Nepal’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, representing the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation.

The understanding has been reached to enhance tourism ties between the two countries by encouraging investments in tourism infrastructure, including the establishment of hotels and development of tourism facilities.

It also seeks to improve expertise in hotel management and promote direct communication between travel agencies and tour operators in both countries.

Under the MoU, Oman and Nepal will work to boost visitor exchanges in accordance with existing regulations. Both countries will facilitate participation in international tourism exhibitions, seminars, conferences, and workshops, allowing industry professionals to share knowledge and expertise.

The MoU also focuses on cooperation within international tourism organisations, including the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). It includes provisions for joint programmes, exchange of information on vocational training, and sharing of tourism statistics, promotional materials, and research findings.

The partnership is expected to create new opportunities for tourism growth in both nations, fostering closer ties between their travel industries and strengthening their presence in the global tourism market.