MUSCAT – Ibri serves as a key transit and rest point for travellers from GCC countries enroute to Dhofar Governorate for the Khareef season. This seasonal movement has significantly boosted demand for hospitality services in the area.

Ali bin Khamis Al Sudairy, Assistant Director at the Department of Heritage and Tourism in Al Dhahirah, stated that occupancy rates in several hotels and accommodation facilities have reached between 85 percent and 100 percent, reflecting the increased demand for these establishments during this time of year.

He also highlighted the rise in the number of licensed hotels and lodging establishments in the governorate, reaching 55 by the end of July 2025, up from 48 in 2024, marking a 14.5 percent growth. This upward trend is expected to continue throughout the year.

Al Sudairy attributed part of this growth to the strategic importance of the Rub’ al Khali (Empty Quarter) border crossing, which links Oman with Saudi Arabia. The crossing has enhanced land-based tourism and opened up new investment opportunities along the route, including fuel stations, rest houses, express service centres, and hospitality services.

Additionally, local markets, shopping centres, restaurants, cafés, and various commercial establishments in Ibri are seeing increased customer activity during this period. This economic momentum is also creating seasonal and permanent job opportunities, especially for Omani youth in sectors such as tourism, retail, and services.