Muscat: Hotel occupancy rates recorded a clear rise, driven by strong demand from the local market, GCC countries, and key European markets, particularly Germany, France, and Italy. This upswing has contributed significantly to revitalising the tourism and hospitality sector during the winter months.

According to the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, revenues of 3- to 5-star hotels rose by 22.2 per cent in 2025, reaching approximately RO 297.3 million. The number of visitors in this category exceeded 2.37 million, reflecting growing tourist inflows from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Overall hotel guest numbers reached 4.6 million, marking a 4.6 per cent increase, underscoring continued visitor confidence in Oman’s tourism services and infrastructure.

Domestic tourism remains a cornerstone of the sector, with 13.6 million local visits recorded in 2024. The ministry noted that strong local spending highlights the community’s connection to the national tourism product and reinforces sustainability within the sector.

On the infrastructure front, Oman’s hospitality capacity continues to expand. The number of hotel establishments rose to 1,368 in 2025, up from 1,022 in 2024, while hotel rooms increased to 38,390, reflecting an 8.7 per cent growth. The ministry issued 383 preliminary approvals for new hotel projects, with 114 projects currently under development and expected to open in 2026 and 2027. Investments in integrated tourism complexes have exceeded RO 11.5 billion, demonstrating strong investor confidence in the Omani market.

Industry leaders across the Sultanate reported robust seasonal performance. In Duqm, Saeed bin Masoud Al-Hanzali, Operations Manager at Crowne Plaza Duqm, said the hotel witnessed increased occupancy compared to last year, driven by local, GCC, and European demand. Improved occupancy and higher average room rates contributed to tangible revenue growth, supported by a balanced mix of business and leisure tourism.

In Muscat, Fahad bin Mohammed Al-Husseini, Director of Sales and Government Relations at The Chedi Muscat, revealed that occupancy rates exceeded 85 per cent during the winter season. He attributed the growth to expanded international outreach, ministry-led promotional campaigns, participation in global tourism exhibitions, and influencer engagement, which boosted arrivals from Europe, Russia, and China.

Musandam Governorate also recorded notable gains. Tariq bin Ali Al-Sahlani, General Manager of Atana Hotels and Resorts Group, confirmed a 7 per cent increase in occupancy compared to last year. Weekday occupancy ranged between 70 and 72 per cent, climbing to 90–93 per cent on weekends. Average revenue per room grew by 8 per cent, while related sectors such as restaurants, marine activities, and tourism tours also benefited from heightened activity.

In Dhofar, Maher Bahsoon, General Manager of Crowne Plaza Salalah Resort, reported a significant rise in occupancy from October to January, alongside stronger early bookings and longer guest stays. The resort recorded growth in both individual and group bookings, with increased demand from European and CIS markets, supported by additional direct charter flights to Salalah.

Meanwhile, Amer bin Abdullah Al-Zadjali, CEO and investor of Al-Sawadi Beach Resort, noted that occupancy during November and December reached 75 per cent, with regional and international tourists accounting for 60 per cent of total winter visitors. He highlighted the Russian market as a key source and called for the introduction of additional unscheduled flight routes to further enhance connectivity.