MUSCAT: Oman’s heritage and tourism sectors posted strong results in the first nine months of 2025, underscoring their growing role in economic diversification and reinforcing the country’s reputation as a sustainable cultural and tourism destination that blends tradition with modern development.
According to the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, the tourism sector’s direct added value reached RO 873 million, while total tourism output climbed to RO 1.99 billion. The sector now contributes 2.7 per cent to Oman’s GDP, highlighting its rising importance within the non-oil economy. Government revenues from the Ministry’s activities reached RO 13.55 million by the end of September, signalling improved financial performance and stronger demand for tourism services.
Hotel revenues rose 6.1 per cent to RO 293.4 million, supported by higher occupancy rates and a wider range of tourism programmes. By the end of the third quarter, Oman welcomed 2.83 million international visitors — slightly lower than last year — while domestic tourism surged to 13.6 million visits, driven by festivals, events and seasonal activities. Hotel guest numbers also grew 4.6 per cent to 4.6 million, reflecting continued confidence in the country’s tourism offerings.
As part of its global marketing efforts, the Ministry expanded its network of international representative offices, opening new ones in China, Russia and Spain, with upcoming offices planned in Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand. These 11 offices conduct campaigns in 25 countries and have generated more than RO 30 million in direct returns. Oman also participated in over 20 international exhibitions, earning awards for its pavilion designs, which blend heritage with modern digital displays. A promotional campaign with CNN further strengthened global visibility.
In the cruise and charter tourism segment, the Ministry advanced initiatives from its sectoral study aimed at enhancing port infrastructure and regulatory frameworks. Charter flights for the 2024–2025 season increased to 588 from 466 a year earlier, attracting 93,000 tourists and generating an estimated $80 million in economic returns. Additionally, 30 local tourism events, held in partnership with various entities, contributed RO 4 million to the economy.
Hotel infrastructure continued to expand, with establishments rising to 1,309 and hotel rooms increasing to 38,000 — a 7.9 per cent growth. Occupancy rates remained stable overall, while reaching 52.6 per cent in three- to five-star hotels. The Ministry issued 383 preliminary approvals for new accommodation projects, with 114 currently under development and expected to open between 2025 and 2027. Investments in integrated tourism complexes have now surpassed RO 11.5 billion.
From January to September, the Ministry signed 36 concession agreements worth RO 100 million for new tourism projects. Employment in the tourism sector reached 169,800, with Omanisation rising to 10.9 per cent.
In the heritage sector, Oman continues to safeguard its cultural assets, now counting 3,655 registered historical and archaeological sites, 1,328 of which have been restored. Work is under way on the World Heritage nomination file for the archaeological sites of Bisya and Salut.
Regionally, Oman recorded strong hotel occupancy levels in September 2025, reaching 66.7 per cent in Muscat and 56.7 per cent in Salalah. The country’s natural landscapes, calm environment and diverse tourism offerings — including adventure, heritage and ecotourism — continue to strengthen its competitiveness in Gulf and international markets. — ONA
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