Muscat – Expected to breach the 5-million mark for the first time, this projection marks a substantial increase from the 4.3 million arrivals recorded in 2023.

“We at BMI forecast Oman’s arrivals to grow by 24.7% y-o-y in 2024 to reach 5.3mn. Our view is supported by Oman’s National Centre for Statistics full year arrivals figures for 2023, published in a report in January 2024, indicating that the market had 4.3mn arrivals in 2023. According to the report published by the Centre, GCC markets accounted for 1.6mn arrivals in 2023. Arrivals from India reached 610,000 in 2023 while arrivals from Germany reached 150,000,” states the report.

BMI’s report forecasts continued growth in the medium term, with arrivals reaching a projected 10.8 million by 2028. This puts Oman well on its way to achieving its Vision 2040 target of attracting 11 million tourists annually.

While global economic challenges may pose risks, Oman’s tourism sector remains resilient, bolstered by regional accessibility, strong transport links, and high household incomes. Additionally, Oman’s allure as a luxury holiday destination positions it favorably amidst competition from other GCC markets.
GCC emerges as key source market for Oman tourism:

“Oman is easily accessible for travellers from its key source markets across the GCC due to regional proximity and strong transport links. Low barriers to entry to Oman will be supported by high household disposable incomes across markets in the region. This will drive demand for experiential products and services such as travel and hospitality,” notes the BMI report.

Furthermore, Oman’s appeal extends beyond regional borders, attracting luxury travelers seeking distinctive holiday experiences. With neighboring GCC countries also ramping up tourism efforts, Oman aims to differentiate its offerings and strengthen promotional strategies.

Highlighting the same, the report states: “Oman is also well-positioned to attract travellers from beyond the GCC, who are seeking luxury holiday options. Oman will compete with its GCC peers as an attractive tourism destination. This will become salient as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait and the UAE governments are increasing their focus on expanding their individual tourism product offerings as part of wider economic diversification efforts in these markets. Oman will equally need to strengthen its tourism promotion strategies to, while differentiating its offerings from its regional peers.”