Commissioned by ATM, the Colliers International data predicts the rise will be fuelled by visitors from India, who accounted for 21 percent of total international arrivals during 2018. In addition, arrivals from the UK (nine percent), Germany (seven percent), Philippines (six percent) and the UAE (six percent) are also expected to contribute to the growth, supported by the expansion of Muscat International airport, new and improved flight connections and new electronic and short stay visa processes.
Looking to acquire their share of these high-growth markets at ATM 2019 will be a number of exhibitors from the Sultanate, including the Oman Ministry of Tourism, Oman Air, The Chedi Muscat, Al Fawaz Tours and Al Bustan Palace – A Ritz Carlton Hotel.
Danielle Curtis, exhibition director ME, ATM, said, “The latest data demonstrates the growth in tourism arrivals to Oman and is set to continue as we look ahead to 2023, supported by the recently opened Muscat International Airport expansion as well as strategic investment from the government as it turns to tourism to diversify its income streams away from hydrocarbon receipts. Despite facing significant competition from other popular regional destinations, Oman has distinguished itself as a unique tourism destination over the past few years - with a wide-range of responsible, eco, cultural and heritage attractions on offer.”
While India is expected to remain Oman’s top source market over the next five years – accounting for 389,890 of tourism arrivals by 2023 - the Philippines is projected to witness the highest CAGR, at 11 percent compared with three percent for India.
The UK, Oman’s second largest source market, is forecast to closely follow with a CAGR of nine percent, while Germany and the UAE will experience comparative growths of seven percent and two percent respectively.
Reflective of this projected growth, during ATM 2018, the number of delegates, exhibitors and attendees interested in doing business with Oman increased 67 percent compared to the 2017 edition of the show.
