Oman’s tourism sector is proving to be a powerful engine for economic growth, with new figures underscoring its pivotal role in the Sultanate’s diversification strategy. This impressive performance provides a compelling backdrop for the launch of a new domestic campaign aimed at further enriching the country’s tourism landscape.
According to official data from the National Center for Statistics and Information (NCSI), the tourism sector contributed over 2.12 billion rials (USD 5.513 billion) to the national economy in 2024. This marks a significant increase from 1.75 billion rials (USD 4.551 bilion) in 2018, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 3.2 percent. The sector’s total contribution to GDP also climbed to 2.7 billion rials (USD 7.02 billion), highlighting its expanding macroeconomic impact.
European travellers have been a significant driver of this success, contributing to a 10.2 percent rise in hotel revenues during the first five months of 2024. This growing appeal, alongside strong regional demand, reflects a focused national strategy to diversify and bolster the hospitality sector.
Salim bin Mohammed Al-Mahrouqi, the Minister of Heritage and Tourism, stated that the growth in visitor arrivals and spending is the result of ambitious efforts to promote Oman as a rich and diverse destination. He noted that the indicators serve as a testament to the government’s economic diversification policies and effective inter-agency coordination.
Relaunch of #WithinOman campaign
Building on this momentum, the Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) has partnered with the National Travel Operator, Visit Oman, to relaunch the #WithinOman campaign. The initiative is a promotional effort designed to stimulate domestic travel and highlight the nation’s diverse attractions.
Running until the end of August, the campaign provides a selection of exclusive packages across OMRAN Group’s hospitality assets, including discounts on accommodation, dining, and experiences. A key feature for the travel trade is the integration with Visit Oman’s digital booking platform, allowing partners to plan and book complete itineraries for travellers through a single, streamlined portal.
This strategic push comes as the Sultanate’s wider economy is forecast to grow by 2.2 percent in 2025, supported by steady non-oil sector expansion.
“We’re thrilled to collaborate with OMRAN Group on the rollout of the summer campaign, marking a significant milestone in expanding Visit Oman’s leading-edge digital booking platform. Now serving both trade partners and travelers, the platform delivers a seamless user experience with dynamic product offerings — all just a click away. This initiative underscores the group’s shared commitment to advancing national efforts that boost domestic tourism and celebrate Oman’s extraordinary diversity, from the dramatic fjords of Musandam to the lush Khareef landscapes of Dhofar.” – Shabib Al Maamari, Managing Director of Visit Oman
Participating properties include Al Bustan Palace, W Muscat, JW Marriott Muscat, Crowne Plaza OCEC, Atana Musandam, Atana Khasab, Crowne Plaza Duqm, Alila Hinu Bay, and Dusit D2 Naseem Resort Jabal Akhdar. The campaign also promotes activities and attractions such as Al Hoota Cave, the Musandam Zipline, Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, and SeaOman water-based experiences.
Why explore Oman
The Sultanate presents several compelling features that distinguish it within the region:
1. Diverse natural landscapes
The Sultanate is defined by a remarkable variety of natural environments. These include the fjord-like coastline of the Musandam Peninsula, the expansive dunes of the Sharqiya Sands, the high-altitude terrain of the Al Hajar mountains, including Jabal Akhdar, and the unique monsoon climate (Khareef) that transforms the southern region of Dhofar into a lush, green landscape during the summer months.
2. Authentic cultural heritage
Oman offers travellers access to a well-preserved cultural landscape. Historic forts, such as those in Nizwa and Jabrin, stand as testaments to its past, while traditional souqs and frankincense trade routes provide insight into its enduring heritage. This focus on authenticity offers a distinct visitor experience.
3. Adventure and niche tourism
The country’s diverse geography supports a wide array of activities suitable for niche and adventure tourism sectors. These range from diving and snorkelling in protected marine areas like the Daymaniyat Islands to mountain trekking, canyoning, desert expeditions, and observing the nesting of endangered green turtles at the Ras Al Jinz reserve.
Agents and travellers looking to book and explore the full range of offers can visit withinoman.visitoman.om.
Other useful resources:
