Decorative lines

Tourism

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

Tourism

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)

-

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

-

-

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.
Oman tourism Market
Market Size in USD Billion
CAGR 6.5%
USD 8.6
2024
USD 14
2034

Unlocking Oman’s rich resources

Strategic Developments and Infrastructure

Tourism Infrastructure Development

$6 billion investment across 363 approved projects (2021–2025), including:

Hotels, resorts, and heritage site upgrades.
Enhanced transportation links to key attractions.

Completion timeline

Phased delivery through 2025, offering immediate investment opportunities.

Airport Expansions

Muscat International Airport

Awarded Best Customer Experience (2022), handling 14 million passengers annually (post-expansion).

Six new airports planned

 Including Ras Al Hadd (2026) to boost regional connectivity.

Oman Botanic Garden

2025 completion

Largest botanical garden in Arabia, emphasizing eco-tourism and research partnerships.

Features

Native plant conservation zones and sustainable tourism programs.

Road Network Expansion

RO 300 million investment (2024)

Upgraded roads to UNESCO sites (e.g., Bahla Fort, Jabal Akhdar).

Key routes

Adam-Thumrait dual carriageway and Al Batinah Coastal Road for seamless tourist access.

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.

Let Us Guide your Success in Oman

Discover Opportunities Across Oman’s Thriving Sectors

Discover a wealth of investment opportunities in Oman, meticulously crafted by Invest Oman and various government stakeholders.

Explore Investment Opportunities

Partner with Us to Shape Your Investment Vision

Got unique investment goals? Contact our experts to create a personalized success roadmap in Oman. We're here to help you maximise your venture's potential.

Contact Us