MUSCAT: Oman’s tourism sector maintained steady growth momentum in 2025, with total output exceeding RO 2.2 billion, underscoring the sector’s expanding contribution to the national economy.
According to data released by the National Centre for Statistics and Information, the sector’s direct contribution to GDP at current prices reached approximately RO 1.135 billion by the end of December 2025, marking a 3.7 per cent increase from RO 1.095 billion recorded a year earlier. The total direct value added also rose by 4 per cent to RO 1.107 billion.
Overall tourism output grew more strongly, climbing 7.8 per cent year-on-year to RO 2.284 billion, compared with RO 2.119 billion in 2024. Tourism consumption recorded the highest growth rate, rising by 11.6 per cent to approximately RO 1.177 billion, reflecting increased visitor spending and stronger domestic tourism activity.
Quarterly data, however, indicated a broadly stable performance. In the fourth quarter of 2025, tourism’s direct contribution to GDP stood at around RO 330 million, slightly below the RO 331 million recorded in the same period of 2024, accounting for 3 per cent of total GDP.
Sectoral breakdowns highlighted mixed trends across tourism-related activities. Accommodation services recorded the strongest expansion, rising by 17 per cent to RO 252.1 million, while other tourism-related services increased by 18 per cent to RO 197.9 million. Restaurant activity grew by 3.5 per cent to RO 198.9 million and transport services edged up by 1.1 per cent to RO 196.5 million. In contrast, travel agencies and booking services declined by 12.2 per cent to RO 242.7 million, indicating shifting consumer behaviour and increased reliance on digital platforms.
At constant prices, which provide a clearer measure of real growth, the sector performed more robustly. Direct tourism GDP rose by 5.7 per cent to RO 1.155 billion, while total direct value added increased by 6.5 per cent to RO 1.095 billion. Total tourism output reached RO 2.174 billion, up 5.5 per cent, while consumption rose by 4.4 per cent to RO 1.079 billion.
The data points to continued resilience in Oman’s tourism sector, supported by expanding infrastructure, diversified offerings and sustained policy focus on tourism as a key pillar of economic diversification. — ONA
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