OMAN has emerged as one of the top destinations among GCC travellers for short breaks, registering a 17 per cent increase in GCC visitors in the third quarter last year.
According to the latest statistics by the National Centre for Statistics and Information, over 701,311 inbound tourists from the GCC visited the Sultanate of Oman until September 2014. The proactive measures undertaken by the Omani government to sustain the seamless expansion in the country’s tourism sectors have complemented this growth. The country has witnessed a spurt in developing activities in its infrastructural facilities, including airports, roads and rail networks and maritime sectors. Salem Adi Al Mamari, director general of tourism promotion, Oman Ministry of Tourism, said: “Compared with other countries, Oman offers a wide range of variety in its geographical features, making it an attractive destination for all-year-round tourism. From ancient forts to modern hotels, beaches, mountains, cuisines, spas and avenues for recreation, we have something to satisfy the needs of even the most discerning travellers. Besides, the Sultanate boasts world-class airports, a wide network of highways, superior ports to make travel smooth.” Oman Ministry of Tourism and Oman Air have announced attractive and cost-effective holiday packages designed for GCC visitors, including luxury hotel stays and return tickets. The joint venture between both parties promotes Oman as a leading tourist destination for short breaks.