Tourism Sector in Oman
Oman’s tourism industry is rapidly emerging as a cornerstone of the nation’s economic diversification strategy. Traditionally known for its rich cultural heritage, dramatic landscapes, and adventure tourism, the sector is now central to Oman’s Vision 2040 goals. As the country shifts away from an oil-dependent economy, tourism is being developed into a sustainable, high-growth industry that offers exceptional returns for investors.
Visitors injected
1.1 bn
(OMR) 69% YoY increase
2023
Employment
192 k
6.5% of the workforce
2023
GDP Contribution
7.6 %
Of Oman’s Total GDP
2023
Totaling
2.8 bn
Riyal Omani (OMR)
2023
Awards
Oman traditionally known for its rich cultural heritage, dramatic landscapes, and adventure tourism, the sector is now central to Oman’s Vision 2040 goals.
Oman as a travel destination - World Travel Awards (WTA)
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For 5 consecutive years
World's Leading Nature Destination
2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, & 2023
For 4 consecutive years
Middle East's Leading Cultural Destination
2019, 2020, 2021, & 2022
For 2 consecutive years
Middle East's Most Romantic Destination
2023, & 2024
For 3 years
Middle East's Leading Honeymoon Destination
2020, 2021, & 2024
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Unlocking Oman’s rich resources
Opportunities and Projections
Oman’s tourism sector is on a strong growth trajectory, driven by Vision 2040 initiatives and rising visitor numbers. This section highlights key investment opportunities and future projections, showcasing the sector’s potential as a pillar of economic diversification.
Investment Opportunities
Ready-Made Projects
- Turnkey projects with feasibility studies and government support are available, including tourism complexes, eco-friendly resorts, and heritage hotels by Omran Group.
Infrastructure Developments
- Investments in modern transport, state-of-the-art convention centers, and new international airports are enhancing connectivity and visitor convenience.
Niche Markets
- Adventure, cultural, and ecotourism offer ripe opportunities for innovation. Developing boutique hotels, themed attractions, and immersive experiences can leverage Oman’s unique natural and cultural assets.
Public–Private Partnerships
- The government's proactive approach encourages private-sector involvement, fostering joint ventures and strategic partnerships with appealing fiscal incentives and simplified regulations.
Growth Projections
Investment Blueprint -
- A strategic US$31 billion investment plan is underway, aimed at upgrading infrastructure, enhancing visitor experiences, and positioning Oman as a premier tourism destination by 2040.
Growth Trajectory -
- With an expected annual compound growth rate (CAGR) in key tourism indicators between 6–8%, projections suggest that tourism’s contribution to GDP will rise to 10% by 2040.
Market Trends -
- Regional trends in the GCC show similar robust growth in tourism, driven by collaborative initiatives such as unified visa policies and cross-border marketing campaigns that enhance overall visitor flow.
Market Size in USD Billion
Unlocking Oman’s rich resources
Strategic Developments and Infrastructure
Tourism Infrastructure Development
$6 billion investment across 363 approved projects (2021–2025), including:
Completion timeline
Airport Expansions
Muscat International Airport
Six new airports planned
Oman Botanic Garden
2025 completion
Features
Road Network Expansion
RO 300 million investment (2024)
Key routes
Why Choose Oman for Tourism Investment?
Strategic Positioning
48-hour reach from 3B consumers across 3 continents, Oman serves as a gateway for both leisure and business travel.
Supportive Policies
Incentives like tax benefits and public investments create a robust investor environment.
Diverse Attractions
Rugged mountains, deserts, beaches, ancient forts, UNESCO sites.
Supportive Government Policies
Incentives like tax benefits and public investments create a robust investor environment.
Government Support: Powering Tourism
Land will be granted under usufruct for a period of 25 to 50 years, depending on the type and size of the project.
A development agreement will be signed with the owners of integrated tourism complexes, which may provide additional incentives and benefits.
Special visas will be granted to property owners in integrated tourism complexes.
Exemption from paying the rental value for a period up to ve years from the date of signing the usufruct contract.
The rental value per square meter is 500 baisa per year for Muscat Governorate and Salalah Governorate and 200 baisa for the rest of the Sultanate's governorates. The rental value is calculated only on the built-up area or at least 50% of the area.
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