Discussions held on investments in tourism sector

The efforts made by the Ministry of Tourism to develop tourism products and services in the Sultanate according to a precise strategic approach were reviewed

MUSCAT: Efforts made to facilitate investment in the tourism sector, as well as develop the MICE sector were among the issues discussed by Omani and Qatari officials on Sunday.

Maithaa bint Saif Al Mahrouqiyah, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Tourism received a delegation from Qatar Tourism Authority in the presence of officials at the Ministry of Tourism.

The agenda of the two-day visit includes introductory meetings and several visits to tourism attractions in the Sultanate. The efforts made by the Ministry of Tourism to develop tourism products and services in the Sultanate as per a precise strategic approach were reviewed. The meeting also shed light on the Omani Tourism Strategy 2040 and its components that promote the Sultanate’s authentic Omani identity and cultural aspects.

Oman’s Tourism Strategy 2040 focuses on reinforcing the principle of sustainable and responsible tourism, as well as attracting investors to establish more tourism projects in Oman. According to Oman’s Tourism Strategy 2040, the Sultanate aims to attract 11 million tourists by the year 2040.

The efforts made to facilitate investment in the tourism sector, as well as develop the MICE sector were also discussed.

The delegation’s visit is part of a call to action on a previously signed MoU between the Sultanate, represented by the Ministry of Tourism and Qatar represented by Qatar Tourism Authority.

The MoU aims to enhance cooperation between the two countries in the tourism industry, strengthen the tourism interaction through different events, facilitate travelling procedures as per the applica- ble regulations in both countries, enhance cooperation in fields of tourism investments, manage tourism facilities, encourage the private sector to engage in the development of the tourism sector, and coordinate between the two countries for promotional campaigns.

Exchange of information

The MoU also states the importance of information exchange between the two countries with regard to their experience in the tourism sector and coordination with the World Tourism Organization (WTO) and other international tourism organizations, keeping in mind different tourism aspects.

The MoU also aims to facilitate the exchange of tourism expertise, media tours, and training courses. As per the MoU, a special technical committee including tourism experts from both countries will be formed to enhance cooperation vis-a-vis annual meetings that will oversee the progress made.

Itinerary

The delegation will visit prominent tourism attractions, such as Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre and the Royal Opera House Muscat.

A site-visit to Omran to understand the investment opportunities available in the Sultanate, as well as the current projects is also part of the visit’s agenda.