Sustainable Destination Management
Strategies in the OIC Member Countries
57
2.1.2. Oman
Background
The Sultanate of Oman is located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. Possessing
primarily desert climate, it enjoys the serenity of sand dunes, the shade of date palm oases,
respite in wadis, reflection in mountain ranges, relaxation on beaches, and year-round
refreshment in Dhofar, Oman’s southernmost region known for summer monsoons and
moderate weather. In addition to climate variability, Oman is also home to unique geologic
structures and vast natural beauty. Neighboring Gulf countries lack the topographical diversity,
as well as the cultural diversity that has shaped Oman’s multi-cultural heritage. Ecologically,
Oman is a significant site for turtle nesting, bird migration, and marine life. Attracted by the
opportunity to enjoy adventure on both land and sea, visitors and residents enjoy outdoor life
both recreationally and professionally through internationally-recognized competitive events
and marathons. Geology enthusiasts have found a fascinating laboratory in Oman’s “Mars-like”
terrain where unique rock and cave formations continue to be a source of wonder and research.
The interior life of Oman’s people is equally an enriching experience for international visitors.
While political instability and civil strife have marred the appeal of travel to the Middle East,
Oman was crowned Arab Tourism Capital in 2012 176 and ranks as the fourth safest country in
the world while maintaining peaceful diplomatic relations worldwide.177 Tourists can securely
access Bedouin life and traditional Arab hospitalitywhilemoving freely around the country, with
or without a tour guide.
Tourism has created jobs and enables Oman to reduce its dependence on oil as a source of
income. Artisans, farmers, silversmiths, weavers, etc. have been able to market their products
to an international customer base. Rural women are underrepresented in Oman’s hospitality
industry, but some have found opportunities to directly and indirectly sell wares to tourists, host
guests at handcraft cooperatives, and offer immersive cultural experiences. Considering the
scarcity of female tour guides, cultural tourism programs allow women to also be ambassadors
of Oman and directly benefit from the tourism economy. According to the World Travel &
Tourism Council (WTTC), the tourism sector in Oman directly contributed $2 billion or 2.6% to
the nation’s GDP in 2014 and indirectly contributed more than $4 billion or 5.7% of the GDP.
Both figures have shown steady annual growth and the WTTC predicts that by 2025, direct and
indirect GDP contribution from tourism will rise to 3.3% and 7.3% respectively.178
Table 4: Oman - Tourism Statistics
International tourist arrivals 1,897,000
International tourism inbound receipts US $1,539.7 million
Average receipts per arrival US $811.6
Travel and Tourism%of GDP 2.5%
Travel and Tourism employment 53,251 jobs (2.7% of total)
Source: Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2017
176 Muscat Daily. (2012). Arab Tourism Capital for 2012 Website Launched. Retrieved from:
177 World Economic Forum. (2017). Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report 2017. Retrieved from
OMN.
178 Oxford Business Group. (n.d.). Long-term strategy for strong tourism sector in Oman. Retrieved from
year-sector.