are determined to exploit the Sultanate’s tourism potential.

“A greater international visibility for our destination means that we are reaching a larger audience and are potentially attracting new segments of travellers.

We continue to adapt our services and products to these new visitors,” explained Farhat.

Meanwhile, Zeuke professed that there has been an increase in the number of operators offering holiday packages which combine shopping in Dubai with a more diverse experience in Muscat that can include anything from diving and dolphin watching, to trips to wadis and mountains, as well as the exploration of traditional Arabian culture and the historic corniche area of the city.

Oman’s shopping credentials do not lack anything when compared to other destinations.

As Swarup observed, “Muscat’s souqs are utterly charming and the source of some of the finest shopping experiences anywhere, they are, however, not the only options in town. Modern shopping complexes have sprung up in the city in recent times, mostly situated in Qurum and in the Al Khuwair area.”

Following a plethora of such projects, Zeuke said that the beginning of 2015 brought a promising start.

“I believe that Muscat’s tourism shall be on the rise [this year too] or else Indian and Asian airlines, as well as strong local carrier Oman Air would not have increased their frequency to and from Muscat to more destinations with even bigger planes. In addition, the new terminal will open [this year] bringing even more airlines, businessmen and travellers to Oman.

”Reiterating the Sultanate’s strong appeal to wellness- and culture-seekers, Frem commented, “2015

reflected a promising year for a new trend of travelling; people are more keen to look for a non-mediocre type of holiday, unique and personalised.

They are also more keen on going back to nature, start to be aware of healthy lifestyle so it is a big opportunity for Six Senses Zighy Bay as it is in line with the company’s core values to present an indigenous experience in an out-of-the-ordinary location with focus on integrated wellness.”

Rabih Zein, cluster general manager, Park Inn by Radisson Muscat and Park Inn by Radisson Hotel & Residence Duqm, stated that this year, the properties expect an immense increase in virtual and digital bookings as nowadays online marketing plays a vital role in the business and most travellers rely on guest reviews.

The hotels’ team is working closely together to monitor all the reviews and reply on time, whereas high-speed Internet is offered free of charge as it is recognised as the basic and fundamental need of a business traveller, he added.

Under the Ministry of Tourism’s guidance, and by turning Oman into a year-round destination by developing facilities and projects and establishing off-season activities, the country can attract new tourists and mainly families to enjoy the beauty of the Sultanate, Zein concluded.