MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman generated around RO 15 million in economic returns from incentive and meetings tourism in 2025, underscoring the sector’s growing contribution to the national economy. The gains were driven by a rise in corporate meetings and incentive travel, with more than 100 groups hosted during the year, alongside a steady increase in regional and international conferences.
Since the start of 2025, Oman has hosted 24 conferences, reflecting sustained efforts to position the country as a competitive destination for business events. The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism views this segment as a strategic pillar in strengthening Oman’s standing on the global tourism map and supporting the objectives of Oman Vision 2040.
Khaled bin Waleed al Zadjali, Director of the Oman Convention Bureau at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, said the Ministry successfully attracted and coordinated several high-profile international and regional conferences in 2024. These included the International Conference of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, which drew 2,300 participants and generated RO 1.86 million in economic returns and the Middle East and Africa Council of Ophthalmology Conference, which yielded RO 1.2 million.
Oman also welcomed major incentive groups from international markets, notably 1,600 visitors from Italy, generating RO 2 million and another group of 1,400 visitors that delivered RO 420,000 in returns. Al Zadjali noted that the economic impact of incentive and conference tourism is three to five times higher than that of traditional tourism, as business travellers typically spend more on accommodation, transport and specialised services.
He explained that this tourism segment requires extensive logistical support, including conference venues, hospitality services and event management, creating wider economic spillovers and benefitting multiple sectors such as healthcare, energy and knowledge-based industries. The Ministry works closely with public and private partners, including the Royal Oman Police and the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, to streamline procedures and enhance service delivery.
The Ministry is also investing in capacity-building for tourism professionals and promoting Oman in key international markets through global exhibitions, targeted workshops and partnerships with hotel groups. With expanding infrastructure and a focus on spreading events across the governorates, incentive and meetings tourism is expected to play an increasingly central role in Oman’s diversified growth strategy. — ONA
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