The Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman in India has announced an exciting new tourist campaign, “Journey to Explore Oman,” designed to captivate the hearts of Indian travelers. The project was unveiled at a ceremony hosted by H.E. Issa Saleh Shaibani, Oman’s Ambassador to India, earlier this week.
This initiative, a collaborative effort between the Oman Embassy in India, IBEX Expeditions from India, and the Bait Al Qanoon Foundation from Oman, is set to run from January 10-18, 2025. The launch event, held on September 21st, was attended by over 100 dignitaries from India and overseas, as well as prominent influencers and passionate travelers who have experienced Ibex Expeditions’ curated journeys around the globe.
Through this campaign, Oman hopes to attract a surge of Indian tourists and foster closer tourism exchange between the two nations. The embassy believes that such initiatives will also pave the way for enhanced cooperation between India and Oman in the areas of business and trade.
“The Sultanate of Oman and the Republic of India share a rich maritime history, a strategic geographic location, and a wealth of environmental, biological, and cultural diversity,” Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, Sultan and Prime Minister of Oman, stated in a message to Firstpost. “These qualities, as in the past, continue to make both nations prime destinations for tourism, trade, manufacturing, and investment. In recent years, they have also emerged as hubs for scientific research and innovation across various fields,” he added.
During his address at the ceremony, Oman’s Ambassador to India, Issa Saleh Abdullah Saleh Alshibani, emphasized that the initiative is an integral part of Oman Vision 2040, a strategic plan for the nation’s development. He extended his gratitude to Aseem Mahajan, Joint Secretary Gulf at the Ministry of External Affairs, for his unwavering support in strengthening the bond between India and Oman.
“Oman, as many of you know, is striving to continue along the path of development and progress as outlined by Oman Vision 2040. Central to this vision is the pursuit of a diversified economy, with sectors such as tourism playing a key role in supporting development, creating opportunities for Omani youth, and preserving both our environment and national identity. This evening is a reflection of that vision—a blend of adventure, culture, and collaboration, showing how Oman continues to open its doors to the world,” the ambassador stated.
He passionately described the allure of Oman, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in its rich tapestry of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. “Speaking of Oman, our nation’s deep-rooted history, shared heritage, and people-to-people links with the rest of the world are what make it truly special. We are not just a destination but a place where history whispers through the ancient forts, where the warm desert sands and towering mountains tell stories of generations past, and where the embrace of our culture and hospitality welcomes you like family,” he added.
The ambassador highlighted the profound cultural connections that bind India and Oman, stating that these connections have resonated throughout history and continue to flourish today. “In Oman, you won’t just find adventure; you’ll find connection. Whether through exploring our breathtaking landscapes or sharing a meal with a local family, every experience will bring you closer to the heart of our people. So, I encourage each of you to visit, explore, and discover the beauty, not only of Oman’s nature but of its soul. I promise you that once you do, you will feel at home,” he concluded.
The embassy revealed that the “Journey to Explore Oman” campaign will be expertly curated by IBEX Expeditions, offering a diverse range of experiences. Travelers can anticipate exploring Muscat, the bustling souqs, the historic Nizwa, and embark on exhilarating adventures like hiking the Jebel Akhder Mountains, experiencing thrilling via ferrata, hot air ballooning, quad biking, camel riding, and dune bashing. They will also have the chance to interact with Bedouin tribes in the Wahiba Sands, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, hike through captivating wadis, and visit captivating turtle nesting sites, just to name a few highlights of this unforgettable journey.
