MUSCAT: Data released by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) shows that Oman’s 3- to 5-star hotels recorded solid revenue growth in the first two months of 2026, despite a modest decline in guest numbers.
Total guests stood at 439,287 by the end of February 2026, down 3.6 per cent from 455,733 recorded during the same period in 2025. However, hotel revenues rose sharply by 18.5 per cent to RO 69.21 million, compared to RO 58.38 million a year earlier, reflecting stronger pricing and improved yield management.
Occupancy rates also edged higher, reaching 68.4 per cent in February 2026, up from 67.6 per cent in February 2025, indicating steady demand in the upscale hospitality segment.
Visitor trends were mixed across key markets. The number of Omani guests declined by 5.3 per cent to 129,797. Arrivals from GCC countries dropped more significantly by 18.4 per cent to 22,396, while guests from other Arab countries fell by 11.6 per cent to 14,485.
In contrast, Asian markets posted growth of 4.5 per cent, with 61,581 guests, while arrivals from the Americas increased by 5.4 per cent to 16,911. European visitors — the largest segment — remained broadly stable, slipping marginally by 0.5 per cent to 172,072.
Other regions recorded declines, including Africa, down 12.4 per cent to 2,798 guests and Oceania, which saw a sharp drop of 46.9 per cent to 5,165.
The data highlights a resilience in Oman’s hospitality revenues, supported by improved occupancy and stronger per-guest spending, even as overall visitor numbers softened. — ONA
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