More than 3 million visitors travelled to the Sultanate in 2018 alone
The Sultanate of Oman has managed to get into the focus of international travellers. According to the Oman Ministry of Tourism, more than three million international tourists visited the country in 2018.
About 1.4 million of the annual visitors were citizens of other Gulf countries, while 200,000 international passengers made a stop in the Sultanate during a cruise.
The number of hotels also grew by 12.3 per cent in 2017–18. It has led to a 7.8 per cent increase in the number of rooms available in the country.
The country has profited from its new visa application process. Recently, it has been enhanced with the implementation of an e-visa system that reportedly belongs among the safest in the world.
Furthermore, the strategic expansion and renovation of Muscat International airport have increased capacity to accommodate more visitors in the country.
Oman aims to host 11 million travellers by 2040
Recent industry reports have projected a sustained annual increase in these figures as Oman’s reputation for hospitality, culture and heritage continues to grow.
The Ministry highlighted the achievements at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai.
“The recent growth of the tourism sector in the Sultanate is very pleasing and is the direct result of sustained campaigns, initiatives and programmes by the Ministry to raise the country’s profile and promote investment in the sector,” said Salem Bin Adey Al Mamari, director general of tourism promotion at the Oman Ministry of Tourism.
“These efforts fall in line with the Oman Tourism Strategy to welcome 11 million tourists by 2040. The Ministry maintains key strategic partnerships within both the private and the public sector and this helps us to promote the tourism industry,” he added.
As part of the tourist boom to the country, expects to see 31 new hotels, motels and resorts open this year. Reports have also revealed that 595 apartments, 13 green lodges, and 18 guest houses projects are currently in development.
Furthermore, leading hotel brand JW Marriott has announced that it is set to open a maiden establishment in Oman in the third quarter of 2019. The 304-room five-star hotel is strategically located beside the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre.
