Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism recently wrapped up a successful four-city roadshow across India, concluding in Bengaluru. This initiative, aimed at solidifying Oman’s reputation as a prime destination for Indian travelers, highlighted the unique attractions of the Sultanate. The roadshow, which kicked off in New Delhi, showcased Oman’s diverse offerings to a wide range of Indian tourists, from luxury seekers to adventure enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
The roadshow brought together 18 key representatives from Oman’s private sector, including top luxury hotels and major airlines. Each stop featured vibrant displays of Oman’s diverse offerings, tailored to appeal to the sophisticated tastes of Indian travelers. Participating luxury hotels and airlines presented exclusive packages and services, highlighting the country’s capability to provide world-class hospitality and unforgettable experiences.
Throughout the roadshow, Indian travel agents and tour operators were given an in-depth look into what makes Oman a unique travel destination. Engaging presentations and discussions emphasized the country’s rich heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and opportunities for adventure, from the serene beaches of Muscat to the rugged beauty of its mountains and deserts.
The response from the Indian travel community was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing a renewed interest in including Oman in their travel itineraries. The roadshow also served as a platform for building and strengthening partnerships between Omani tourism businesses and Indian travel agencies. These relationships are expected to drive a steady increase in the number of Indian visitors to Oman, contributing to the country’s growing tourism sector.
The event successfully positioned Oman as a luxurious and culturally rich destination that offers a variety of experiences to Indian travelers. As a result, Oman is poised to see an influx of visitors from India, attracted by the promise of luxury, adventure, and the chance to explore a land of stunning beauty and timeless heritage.
Azzan Al Busaidi, the Undersecretary of Tourism at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism in the Sultanate of Oman, highlighted the significant role of the Indian market, emphasizing that India stands as Oman’s second-largest source of visitors. In 2023 alone, over 625,000 Indian tourists visited Oman, marking an impressive surge of more than 70% compared to the previous year. This upward trend has continued into 2024, with the first five months showing a 15% rise in Indian arrivals, indicating a sustained interest in Oman as a travel destination.
Oman’s accessibility to Indian travelers has been greatly enhanced with direct flights operating from over ten major Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru. The relatively short flight time of just 3.5 hours, coupled with more than 100 weekly flights operated by top airlines like Oman Air, Salam Air, Vistara, Indigo, and Air India Express, makes Oman an attractive and convenient choice for those seeking luxury and leisure.
The recent roadshow effectively showcased some of Oman’s most alluring attractions, starting with its sun-drenched beaches. These coastal paradises feature exclusive resorts that offer private beachfront access and personalized services, creating the perfect setting for luxury vacations. Oman’s expansive deserts were also a focal point, where visitors can experience the unique luxury of staying in opulent tents beneath a starlit sky, surrounded by the serene beauty of rolling dunes.
In addition to its natural wonders, Oman’s rich cultural heritage was a central theme of the presentations. Attendees were introduced to the country’s historical landmarks, including ancient forts and castles that narrate the tales of Oman’s past. The traditional Omani village life was another highlight, offering a glimpse into the authentic lifestyle and traditions that have been preserved over centuries.
The roadshow also shed light on the story of the Land of Frankincense, an integral part of Oman’s history that captivated the audience. This narrative not only underscored Oman’s historical significance as a cultural and trading crossroads but also highlighted its role in the ancient incense trade, which has left a lasting imprint on the country’s cultural landscape.
By the end of the event, participants had gained a deeper understanding of Oman’s multifaceted appeal, from its luxurious accommodations and breathtaking natural landscapes to its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. This comprehensive portrayal of Oman as a destination has further cemented its position as a favored choice for Indian travelers looking for luxury, culture, and adventure all in one place.
Recognizing the culinary preferences of Indian travelers, Oman provides an extensive selection of dining options tailored to suit Indian tastes. Numerous luxury hotels and resorts throughout Oman feature Indian restaurants, offering a wide range of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. This ensures that Indian guests can enjoy familiar flavors and feel a sense of home while exploring Oman.
The recent roadshow also highlighted a variety of thrilling activities designed to appeal to adventure-seeking travelers. Guests can indulge in private paragliding experiences, kite surfing on pristine, secluded beaches, and navigating guided mountain biking trails. For those seeking a more unique adventure, exclusive caving expeditions and snorkeling in Oman’s crystal-clear waters provide unforgettable experiences. Additionally, bespoke camping setups under the stars offer a perfect blend of comfort and nature.
To further strengthen Oman’s allure for Indian tourists, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism unveiled plans to launch targeted initiatives. These include residential workshops aimed at deepening partnerships with Indian travel agents, consumer promotions to raise awareness of Oman’s offerings, and luxury brand campaigns to position Oman as a top-tier destination. These efforts are strategically designed to elevate Oman’s profile and solidify its place as the preferred destination for Indian travelers looking for a luxurious and adventurous getaway.
