Study links sustainability at OCEC to higher visitor satisfaction

MUSCAT: The Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC) continues to gain recognition for combining world-class facilities with strong sustainability credentials, with new research confirming that its eco-friendly operations play a key role in enhancing visitor satisfaction.
A study conducted by Jalal Hassan Zeaiter and Najla bint Ali al Sheidiyah of Oman Tourism College (OTC) found a clear positive relationship between sustainable event management practices at OCEC and increased visitor satisfaction.
The research highlights how the integration of sustainability into convention and exhibition operations influences visitor experience as well as strategic decision-making.
Sustainability has become an increasingly important focus across the tourism, hospitality and event management sectors due to growing socioeconomic and environmental concerns. Convention and exhibition centres, such as OCEC, play a vital role in generating economic activity while meeting visitor expectations.
By adopting measures including efficient waste management, energy conservation and environmentally conscious design, such venues address environmental challenges while attracting visitors drawn to eco-friendly operations.
The study found that OCEC’s use of sustainable materials contributes significantly to green building design, enhancing the Centre’s overall sustainability performance. It also noted the venue’s active engagement with local communities through partnerships with neighbourhood organisations, which have supported the expansion of recycling initiatives.
Among the most influential factors driving visitor satisfaction was the Centre’s extensive renewable energy infrastructure, particularly its more than 8,000 solar panels that support energy efficiency. The installation of electric vehicle charging stations, in collaboration with local organisations, was also identified as enhancing sustainable transportation options.
Visitor awareness of these efforts is high, with around 76 per cent of survey respondents indicating familiarity with OCEC’s sustainability practices. The research found that these factors strongly influenced decisions to attend events, intentions for repeat visits and recommendations to others.
Additional initiatives, including strategic landscaping and a 4.6-megawatt rooftop solar power system, have contributed to water conservation, while energy-saving measures were identified as having the greatest impact on visitor satisfaction.
Although some visitors suggested the introduction of a complete no-plastic zone, the overall findings indicate that OCEC’s sustainability efforts have significantly enhanced the guest experience and reinforced Oman’s appeal as a destination.
The study also outlined potential areas for further improvement, including the adoption of intelligent power management systems and expanded use of digital documentation to reduce paper consumption.
Overall, the research positions OCEC as a benchmark for sustainable event management, supporting Oman’s broader ambitions to lead in innovation, sustainable development and responsible tourism.