Muscat: The latest figures from the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) reveal a significant boost in hotel revenues. By the end of July 2024, 3-5 star hotel revenue surged by 7.9%, reaching a robust RO 132.3 million. This compares to RO 122.6 million at the same time last year.

The uptick in revenue is largely driven by a 9.3% rise in the number of hotel guests, who totaled approximately 1.2 million by the end of July 2024. The occupancy rate also saw a 2.1% increase, reflecting the sector’s growing appeal.

Breaking down the guest demographics, Omani visitors grew by 7.7%, reaching 445,000. Gulf guests saw a modest increase of 0.6%, totalling 101,341. Other Arab guests experienced a notable rise of 12.8%, reaching 58,252, while European guests enjoyed a significant boost of 18.9%, bringing their numbers to 308,938.

Guests from the Americas increased by 4.4%, totalling 34,928, and those from Africa rose by 0.9% to 6,469. Asian visitors saw a notable increase of 9.9%, reaching 180,739, though Oceania saw a decrease of 30.6%, with 17,200 guests.