Tourism
From The Report: Oman 2013
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The tourism sector is enjoying increased attention. In 2012 it accounted for some 3% of GDP, saw growth of nearly 4% in the same year, and contributed to the creation of some 70,000 jobs in 2011. In the broader Middle East region, tourism job creation actually shrank by 0.6%. Going forward, the government’s priority is to diversify tourism offerings, via a number of initiatives to promote the camping and adventure segment. Furthermore, as part of efforts to build up new segments, the authorities are attempting to promote the sultanate as a golfing destination to both domestic and foreign golf enthusiasts. Sailing academies are also being expanded in an effo

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Overview

A broad push: Efforts are under way to expand offerings in segments ranging from MICE to golf
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While Doha, Dubai, Kuwait, Manama and other port cities in the Gulf developed on relatively flat, sandy terrain, the ancient port settlement of Muscat grew around several peaks, which continue to define the city’s unique appearance. The country’s interior is ever more rugged. To the north, the Hajjar Mountains, which separate Oman from the UAE, dwarf the peaks of Muscat. To the west, the Rub Al Khali (the “Empty Quarter” desert region), sits on the country’s border with Oman, Yemen, the…

Interview

OBG talks to Ahmed bin Nasser Al Mahrizi, Minister of Tourism
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Interview: Ahmed bin Nasser Al Mahrizi How is the ministry promoting balanced and diversified development of tourism infrastructure? AHMED BIN NASSERAL MAHRIZI: The government has been introducing new tourism products that unlock the sultanate’s tourism potential. The rehabilitation of numerous historical caves in various governorates is one of the moves being considered for tourism. Efforts are also being taken to attract high-value visitor segments, with tourism in meetings, incentives,…

Interview

OBG talks to Wael bin Ahmed Al Lawati, CEO, Omran
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Interview: Wael bin Ahmed Al Lawati How can meaningful work opportunities for nationals be created through Oman’s tourism sector? WAEL BIN AHMEDAL LAWATI: The government realises that job creation will be one of the greatest challenges in the coming years, and Omran has been working on principles for its in-country value policy, which looks at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises as well as larger businesses. Different regions and subsectors have different needs and varying levels…

Analysis

Top marks: As accolades raise its profile, regulatory changes make it easier to visit the sultanate
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Adjusting Regulations In addition to planning extra events, the authorities instituted legal changes to make visiting the sultanate simpler. On February 20, 2012, the Ministry of Tourism announced new, less costly visa options for short-term travellers. These options include a 10-day, single-entry and 24-hour, multiple-entry visas, both for OR5 ($13). The new visas could save short-term passengers 75% on fees compared to the OR20 ($52) cost of the original tourism visa, which is typically valid…

Analysis

A climate for growth: Cool summer temperatures draw regional and local visitors to Dhofar
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Summers in Dhofar are unique for the Gulf region. In mid-summer, the south-east monsoon, known as the khareef, flows in from the east on seasonal winds coming off of the Indian Ocean. A moist white haze settles across the city of Salalah and the surrounding area, tempering the summer heat. For about two months, the haze remains. The moisture from the khareef fills the normally-dry wadis ( valleys), nurturing a lush ecosystem unique to a region known for sandy deserts. In ancient times, these winds…

Analysis

Building up: A long list of hotel and infrastructure projects is set to boost capacity
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As the authorities in Oman ramp up efforts to expand the country’s tourism sector, a combination of government and private investment is flowing in to build necessities like accommodation and infrastructure. There were $2bn worth of tourism projects in the pipeline in March 2012, according to the state-backed tourism investment firm Omran, with projects ranging from five-star hotels to sky trains. Hotels Growing options are a part of Oman’s tourism infrastructure expansion. The industry has…