Oman is stepping confidently into a new era of development, aiming to become a major global tourism hub while reducing its long-standing dependence on oil revenues. The Sultanate’s stunning coastlines, heritage architecture, and vast deserts form the foundation of its long-term vision for a resilient and diversified economy.
Launched in 2016, Oman’s 25-year tourism strategy sets an ambitious target of attracting 11.7 million tourists annually by 2040—up from 2.6 million in 2015. As highlighted by AGBI, this plan is a cornerstone of the country’s broader efforts to stabilize its economy by tapping into its cultural and natural assets.
In an interview with Atalayar, Mr. Al Busaidi emphasized the importance of drawing lessons from Spain’s tourism model and attracting Spanish visitors to Oman. Unlike many Gulf cities, Muscat has maintained a low-rise skyline, blending traditional whitewashed architecture, arched designs, and 16th-century forts, in a deliberate effort to preserve its authentic character.
While avoiding rapid vertical growth, Oman is still preparing for a 50% population increase by 2040. Projects like Sultan Haitham City—designed to house 100,000 residents with amenities including 29 mosques and 39 schools—demonstrate the Sultanate’s commitment to sustainable, people-focused urban planning.
The country’s tourism sector is already seeing notable gains. Revenues from 3- to 5-star hotels rose by 12.7% to $153 million (RO59 million) by the end of February 2025, according to the National Centre for Statistics and Information. Guest numbers reached 458,433, a 3.6% year-on-year increase, while hotel occupancy climbed from 60.8% to 67.9%.
Tourism growth is being driven by strong international demand. European visitors led the influx, rising 8.7% to 173,455. Notable increases also came from Asia (+8.1%), the Americas (+9.2%), Oceania (+53.4%), and Africa (+55%). Travelers from GCC countries grew 6.5% to 27,505.
As Oman steadily advances its development plans, it positions itself as a leading destination for cultural heritage, sustainable living, and economic transformation.
Source: travelandtourworld.com
