Muscat – Oman’s adventure tourism sector has recorded sharp growth, with the number of licensed companies organising adventure activities rising from just three in 2023 to 16 in 2025 – an increase of 433% – the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) has confirmed.

The expansion reflects growing confidence in the sultanate’s outdoor and experiential tourism offerings, as adventure tourism continues to emerge as a key pillar within Oman’s diversified tourism strategy.

The ministry said the sector is receiving sustained attention through a range of programmes designed to enhance service quality, improve site readiness and ensure full compliance with safety and operational standards.

According to official data covering 2023–2025, the ministry has implemented a comprehensive roadmap to regulate, promote and develop adventure tourism nationwide. The plan focuses on strengthening organisational frameworks, upgrading infrastructure and building professional capacity across the sector.

As part of regulatory and readiness efforts, MHT has issued clear frameworks governing adventure tourism routes and activities. To date, 23 approved adventure routes have been launched across several governorates, while field inspections have been carried out at more than ten adventure tourism sites to ensure adherence to approved standards.

In parallel, the ministry has advanced its digital transformation agenda by licensing adventure tourism operators through electronic platforms, alongside issuing specialised guide permits for professionals working in the field.

Safety remains a central pillar of the ministry’s approach. A dedicated safety charter for adventure tourism activities has been introduced, supported by an advisory guide outlining safety and security requirements for operators and visitors alike.

The ministry has also intensified awareness and promotional efforts, rolling out targeted campaigns across social media platforms and organising specialised adventure events at prominent destinations, including Wadi Bani Khalid, Wadi Tiwi and the Jabal Shams Balcony Walk. These initiatives have helped reinforce Oman’s image as a safe and attractive destination for adventure tourism enthusiasts.

Human capital development has been another key focus. The ministry has delivered training programmes in first aid and mountain rescue, alongside specialised courses for professional adventure tour guides. As a result, the number of licensed adventure tourism guides rose from 20 in 2023 to 51 in 2024, reaching 87 in 2025.

In addition, MHT has strengthened partnerships with key stakeholders, including coordination with the Ministry of Defence, the signing of agreements and memoranda of understanding with international partners, and participation in major global tourism exhibitions.

Officials said the integrated approach underscores the ministry’s commitment to positioning adventure tourism as a sustainable, high-quality tourism product that supports economic diversification, attracts international visitors and creates new opportunities for local enterprises and youth employment.