Hi FM

Listen
On Air James Hall Jeremih, Yg - Don't Tell 'Em

European, GCC demand lifts Oman’s winter tourism sector

Saturday, 28 February 2026 22:43

Muscat – Winter tourism in Oman is witnessing solid growth in visitor numbers, hotel occupancy and revenues, according to data released by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism. The winter season, which runs from October to April, has seen increased demand from the domestic market, GCC countries and key European markets, notably Germany, France and […]

Muscat – Winter tourism in Oman is witnessing solid growth in visitor numbers, hotel occupancy and revenues, according to data released by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism.

The winter season, which runs from October to April, has seen increased demand from the domestic market, GCC countries and key European markets, notably Germany, France and Italy.

The ministry said revenues of three- to five-star hotels rose 22.2% in 2025 to about RO297.3mn. Total hotel guests reached 4.6mn, up 4.6% compared with the previous year.

Domestic tourism remained a key pillar of the sector. Around 14mn local visits were recorded in 2025, with higher spending levels supporting overall performance.

Hotel infrastructure expanded as well. The number of hotel establishments rose to 1,368 in 2025 from 1,022 a year earlier. Total rooms increased to 38,390, marking 8.7% growth. Authorities issued 383 initial approvals for new projects, while 114 hotels are under development and expected to open in 2026 and 2027.

Investments in integrated tourism complexes exceeded RO11.5bn, reflecting continued investor interest.

Industry executives said occupancy and average room rates improved across key destinations.

Saeed bin Masoud Al Hanzali, Operations Manager at Crowne Plaza Duqm, said the hotel recorded higher occupancy compared with last year, driven by local, GCC and European demand. “Operational indicators showed improvement in occupancy levels and average room rates, which contributed to tangible revenue growth,” he said, noting a balance between business travel linked to Duqm’s economic projects and leisure tourism.

At The Chedi Muscat, occupancy exceeded 85% during the winter period, according to Fahad bin Mohammed Al Husseini, Director of Sales and Government Relations. He attributed the rise to promotional campaigns, participation in international exhibitions and broader access to tourism-exporting markets, including Europe, Russia and China.

In Musandam, Atana Hotels and Resorts reported a 7% increase in occupancy compared with last year. Tariq bin Ali Al Sahlani, General Manager, said weekday occupancy ranged between 70% and 72%, rising to 90–93% on weekends. Average revenue per room grew 8%, supported by higher demand for accommodation and leisure packages.

In Dhofar, Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah reported stronger early bookings and longer average stays. General Manager Maher Bahsoon said the property saw growth from European and CIS markets, supported by additional direct charter flights to Salalah.

Officials and industry representatives said expanded air connectivity, product diversification and targeted promotion contributed to the improved performance, positioning Oman for sustained growth in future seasons.

Share

More from Muscat Daily Oman News

  • MAFWR seized illegal drilling equipment in Ibra

    Ibra – Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources (MAFWR), has successfully intercepted an unauthorised mechanical drilling operation in the Wilayat of Ibra. This action was part of a broader national initiative to crack down on the digging of random and unlicensed wells, which pose a significant threat to the country’s precious groundwater resources. During […]

  • ROP seek public help to locate missing woman in Ibri

    Ibri – Royal Oman Police (ROP) has issued an official public appeal for assistance in locating a citizen who has been reported missing since late February. According to a statement released by the Department of Security Relations and Media, Aisha bint Hamad Al Majrafi left her family residence in the Al Belydah area, located within […]

  • Registration opens for Dhofar Khareef temporary activities

    DhofarAs part of early preparations for Dhofar Khareef 2026, Dhofar Municipality has announced the opening of registration for temporary commercial activities during the busy monsoon tourism season. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the municipality said applications will be open exclusively to Omani citizens, in line with approved regulations and operational guidelines aimed at ensuring […]

  • Bids invited from companies for phase III development of Ain al Ksafa in Rustaq

    Rustaq – As part of its ongoing efforts to promote domestic tourism and enhance the contribution of the tourism sector to national income, South Batinah governorate has announced a tender for the development of Phase III of Ain Al Kasfa in Rustaq, one of the governorate’s most prominent natural attractions. The Office of the Governor […]

  • MoE launches contest for scientific research, innovation in Muscat

    Muscat  – The Ministry of Education (MoE) has launched a new innovation-focused initiative titled the ‘First Muscat Educational Competition for Scientific Research and Innovation’, as part of its ongoing efforts to promote a culture of research and encourage both students and educators to embrace creativity and modern technological solutions within the educational environment. The competition […]

  • Rustaq women celebrate Ramadan with first-of-its-kind community iftar

    Rustaq – In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the Omani Women’s Association in Rustaq organised an iftar for women in the scenic surroundings of Wadi Al Sahtan, blending the spiritual essence of Ramadan with active community engagement. The gathering brought together association members, women volunteers, social activists and residents of the wilayat of various age groups. Careful […]

FM
Online
App