Reportedly with 3,57,147 Indians visiting the Sultanate of Oman in 2018 as against 3.17 lakh Indian tourists in 2017, India has emerged as the second highest source market for Oman, after the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Meanwhile this marks a remarkable growth of 39.4 % over the last five years, as per the statistics released by Oman’s National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI).
Furthermore the country received 14,84,063 international travelers in 2018 as against 13,69,199 in 2017, which is significantly higher, showcasing a growth of over 8.39 %. Reports added the Oman Tourism Strategy, developed by the Ministry of Tourism (MOT), foresees at least 11.7 mn international and domestic tourists by 2040, triggered by domestic and international investments into the sector of around OMR (Omani Riyal) 20 billion over the period. Meanwhile Ms. Lubaina Sheerazi said “India has been an important market for us and we are delighted to say that it has been one of the best performing countries, reaching the status of second highest source market after GCC”.
Moreover last year saw the opening of the state of the art Muscat International Airport, giving the country a plush gateway offering unrivaled service and earning the prestigious best new airport in the world. Apparently to attract more travelers, Oman announced a new short term tourist visa at 5 OMR equivalent to approximately INR 930, for a 10 day visit.
