Oman to invest $31bn in tourism sector by 2040

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Oman has announced its intention to invest $31bn by 2040 in the sultanate’s tourism sector.

Azzan Qassim Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Tourism, shared the government’s intention to boost investment toward driving tourism at a press conference in Germany before the start of ITB Berlin. The international travel trade show is on from March 5-7.

In 2023, the sultanate received four million visitors, up from 2.9 million in 2022, a rise of almost 38 per cent, Al Busaidi shared, saying it was a record-breaking achievement. Of these, 231,000 hailed from Germany, reflecting a rise of 182 per cent over 2022.

The Ministry of Heritage and Culture is focused on creating an environment conducive to tourism growth. The streamlining of the visa application processes, easing visa restrictions for citizens of over 100 countries and investing in infrastructure and attractions are all part of the process, the minister said. “We have ambitious plans for our tourism sector, with over $5.9bn of investment currently funnelled into more than 360 projects.”

Read: Oman visa-free entry – Check list to see countries that qualify

The minister also said that Oman’s 2050 Net-Zero target was a priority as were sustainable practices covering hospitality and the preservation of heritage sites and historical monuments.

Oman at OTB Berlin

According to an Oman Press Agency report, the country’s participation in the travel show featured an opening ceremony, which included performances from the Royal Symphony Orchestra and a group of local artists and folklore groups.

The Omani pavilion showcases exhibits of 70 government and private sector establishments within 800 square metres. This is in addition to two additional galleries that highlight adventure tourism and the sultanate’s culinary heritage.