AGP Executive Report

Oman Tourism Growth: Oman’s tourism sector hit 4 million visitors in 2025 and brought in over OMR 1 billion in inbound spending, with an average stay of 6.5 nights and spend of about RO 256, while tourism-related establishments topped 24,000 and employment rose to more than 182,000. Khareef Momentum in Dhofar: Dhofar welcomed 1,116,051 visitors from June 21 to Aug 31, up 8.6% year-on-year, with August alone drawing 643,602 arrivals and land travel remaining a key route. Discover Oman x Ironman: Oman’s Heritage and Tourism Minister met Ironman Group CEO in Nice to boost measurable impact from the Discover Oman partnership, citing 24.6 million viewers and 1.62 million viewing hours for the Ironman Pro series by end-July. Regional Travel Risk Watch (Hormuz/Red Sea): With Hormuz protection narrowed to two daily time windows and Houthis seizing Perim Island near Bab el-Mandeb, shipping disruption is intensifying—raising costs and affecting routes that matter to regional travel and logistics. Oman Events & Development: Bidiyah Sands Carnival 2026 (Nov 19–Dec 19) will spotlight Oman International Baja, while Muttrah Waterfront plans a new 18.5-hectare mixed-use lifestyle destination.

Strait of Hormuz Human Impact: The IMO says more than 20,000 seafarers have been affected by the disruption, with evacuations paused and reports of crews killed, injured or missing—while mental health risks from long, unsafe uncertainty are increasingly highlighted. Oman Diplomacy on Shipping Safety: Iran says Gulf littoral foreign ministers will meet in Oman on Monday (Salalah) to discuss regional issues, including safe routes in the Strait of Hormuz, as Oman and Iran continue talks on a temporary joint corridor. Shipping “Darkening” and Costs: Tankers are masking identities by disabling AIS and using anti-drone defenses; oil flows are hard to track, and APPEC panelists warn volumes could vary widely. Fuel and Bunkering Watch: Marine fuel supply is stabilising at major hubs, but remains expensive and uneven—Singapore and Fujairah prices and availability still lag pre-conflict norms. Oman Tourism & Leisure Moves: Muttrah Waterfront is set for an 18.5-hectare mixed-use lifestyle destination, and the Oman International Baja will headline the Bidiyah Sands Carnival 2026 (Nov 19–Dec 19). Air Connectivity: Saudia will add Muscat from Oct 27 with three weekly flights, boosting direct travel between the two capitals.

GCC Tourism Push: Oman urged GCC partners to move tourism cooperation into a more integrated, measurable stage, calling for joint initiatives, clear executive programmes, and faster rollout of recovery plans during the 10th GCC Tourism Ministers meeting in Manama. GCC Tourism Capital: The Wilayat of Al Jabal Al Akhdar was named GCC Tourism Capital for 2027, with Oman pointing to its mountain landscapes, heritage villages, and growing visitor numbers alongside expanding hotel capacity. Air Connectivity: Saudia will add Muscat to its seasonal network from Oct 27, operating three weekly Riyadh–Muscat flights to boost tourism and business travel. Travel Policy Watch: South Korea released a list of 116 countries eligible for K-ETA instead of a traditional visa, while the UK outlined rules for ETA holders from 82 countries. On-the-ground Mobility Tech: Maple Leaf and Oman’s transport authorities conducted an autonomous driving demonstration at Salalah International Airport, marking progress toward smart mobility deployment. Travel Disruption Alerts: UAE flight delays and cancellations were reported amid wider regional tensions, with passengers advised to check individual flight status.

GCC Tourism Push: Oman joined GCC tourism ministers in Manama urging a shift from cooperation to measurable, time-bound integration, with joint packages, routes and unified promotion to keep the region competitive. GCC Visa Momentum: The GCC unified tourist visa is expected to be launched soon, described as a “Grand Tours” scheme enabling travel across six Gulf states (Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait). Oman Spotlight: Al Jabal Al Akhdar was named GCC Tourism Capital for 2027, with ministers citing its hotel growth (95 establishments, 1,060+ rooms) and rising visitor numbers. Air Connectivity for Oman: Saudia will add Muscat from Oct. 27 with three weekly flights, boosting seasonal links. Oman Travel Trade: Oman Tourism wrapped a three-city sales mission in India (Chennai, Bengaluru, New Delhi), targeting longer, immersive itineraries as Indian arrivals and average stays continue to rise. Sohar Banking in Asia: Sohar International opened an Asia Pacific office in Hong Kong, positioning the bank as a gateway for Oman–Asia business ties. Maritime Disruption Watch: Shipping authorities warn of a “two-tier” maritime trade system as the Iran war strains routes and raises costs—an issue that can ripple into travel and logistics planning.

GCC Tourism Push: Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism backed the Wilayat of Al Jabal Al Akhdar in A’Dakhiliyah being named GCC Tourism Capital for 2027, highlighting its mountain scenery, terraces, heritage villages and growing visitor numbers. Gulf Visa Ease: The GCC unified tourist visa—dubbed a Schengen-style “GCC Grand Tours” permit—was flagged as launching soon, letting travellers move across Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, Oman and Kuwait on one authorisation (details on fees and eligibility still pending). Air Connectivity & Travel Growth: Oman’s regional travel momentum also shows up in wider GCC aviation moves, including a planned unified tourist visa and major airline route partnerships across the Gulf. Tourism Under Pressure: With Strait of Hormuz tensions continuing to disrupt shipping and lift oil prices, travel planning across the region faces extra uncertainty, from costs to route changes. Sports Tourism Spotlight: Oman’s Tour of Salalah wrapped with Swiss rider Simon Pellaud taking the overall title, adding another reason for cycling fans to look at Dhofar.

Maritime Security & Travel Disruption: Iran’s IRGC has declared a new maritime restricted area stretching from Chabahar into parts of the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, warning vessels that enter without coordination could face sanctions—another reminder for travellers and shipping-linked tourism to watch regional advisories closely. Tourism Policy: The GCC is edging toward a unified tourist visa for all six member states, with the secretary-general saying it will “see the light soon,” aiming to make cross-Gulf hopping easier for visitors. Oman Heritage & UNESCO Bid: Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has floated an international tender to prepare the nomination dossier and management plan for “Salut: Iron Age Settlement” in Bahla, targeting UNESCO World Heritage listing. Oman in the Spotlight: Indian singer Madhubanti Bagchi’s new album video highlights Muscat and Muttrah landmarks, turning Oman’s culture and scenery into mainstream travel inspiration. Sports & Tourism: Simon Pellaud won the Tour of Salalah overall, capping a week of racing that puts Dhofar’s routes and scenery on the cycling map.

Oman Sail: Oman Sail’s high-performance training camp in Mussanah wrapped up successfully, bringing Omani 49er and 29er sailors together to sharpen tactics, boat handling, fitness and crew communication ahead of the 2026 Asian Games. Heritage & Tourism: Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has floated a tender to prepare the UNESCO nomination dossier and management plan for “Salut: Iron Age Settlement” in Bahla, aiming to strengthen protection and boost cultural tourism. Air Connectivity (Oman): SalamAir announced a new Muscat–Copenhagen service via Baghdad starting November 14, with fifth-freedom traffic allowing Baghdad-to-Copenhagen ticketing. Travel Rules (Thailand): Thailand will cut visa-free tourism stays for eligible travellers from 60 to 30 days from September 15, including Indian passport holders, with a possible one-time extension up to 30 days. Regional Travel Risk (Hormuz): Escalating US-Iran tanker strikes and Hormuz disruption pushed Brent above $100, while crews and shipping face renewed warnings—an indirect headache for Gulf travel planning.

Maritime Security: Oman evacuated 16 crew from the Saudi-owned tanker Sidr after an Iranian attack in the Strait of Hormuz; two Filipino sailors were reported killed, underlining how quickly shipping disruptions can hit travel and logistics. Oman–Rwanda Diplomacy: President Paul Kagame’s visit saw Oman and Rwanda sign agreements including visa-exemption for diplomatic/special/service passport holders, plus cooperation on transport, dry ports, logistics, tourism and more. Flights & Tourism Connectivity: SalamAir opened ticket sales for a new Muscat–Baghdad–Copenhagen route starting Nov 15, 2026, twice weekly, boosting Northern Europe access for Omani travellers. EV Charging in Oman: New regulated public EV charging fees kick in Oct 1, 2026 (50–120 Baisa/kWh depending on charger power), with home charging still far cheaper than petrol for most drivers. Culture & Heritage: Bahla’s World Heritage Volunteers Forum is bringing Omani and international youth together to preserve traditional crafts through workshops and community projects. Regional Travel Policy: Thailand will shift from its 60-day visa exemption to 30-day and 15-day categories from Sept 15, with Oman listed among eligible nationalities. Jet Lag for Round-the-World: oneworld partnered with Timeshifter to offer personalised jet-lag plans for RTW travellers booked on oneworld.com. Regional Context: With oil prices near $100 amid US–Iran tanker strikes, travel costs and flight planning across the region remain sensitive to Hormuz disruption.

Air Connectivity & Tourism: SalamAir opened ticket sales for a new Muscat–Baghdad–Copenhagen route, with flights set to start on 15 November 2026 (twice weekly), aiming to boost affordable travel and tourism links between Oman, Iraq and Northern Europe. Diplomacy & Travel Links: Oman and Rwanda announced plans to open resident embassies and set up a joint committee and business council, with cooperation flagged across transport, energy, mining, tourism, logistics and communications. Heritage Tourism: Rwanda President Paul Kagame visited Salalah’s Museum of Frankincense Land, touring exhibits on Omani identity and Dhofar’s frankincense history. Local Attractions: Ayn Athum waterfall in eastern Dhofar returned to flow late in the Khareef season, about two weeks later than last year, as Dhofar transitions toward Al Sarb. Regional Travel Context: With Strait of Hormuz tensions still in focus, Iran says a deal with Oman on managing shipping is imminent, while warnings of risks near Omani waters continue—an important backdrop for regional travel planning and insurance considerations.

Strait of Hormuz Update: Iran says it’s close to finalising with Oman a temporary safe shipping route, likely to be registered with the IMO within days, as Tehran also threatens a new “restricted/exclusion zone” that could blacklist ships without coordination—while shipping traffic through the strait hits its lowest level since May and oil prices hover near $100. Oman-UK Tourism Link: Oman and the UK’s joint working group met in Muscat, with both sides discussing ways to revitalise tourism, cultural exchange, and de-escalation efforts in the Strait of Hormuz. Unified Gulf Tourist Visa: GCC officials say a unified tourist visa is set to be launched soon, making it easier to travel across Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman. Oman Airports & Visitor Experience: Oman’s airports have secured nine global customer experience awards, boosting the country’s travel credentials. Sports & Travel: Oman’s men’s hockey team has departed for Japan for final preparations ahead of the Asian Games, with matches starting Sept 18. Heritage & Community: Bahla hosts a World Heritage Volunteers forum focused on conserving traditional crafts and youth participation.

Strait of Hormuz Disruption: Iran says it will announce a restricted “exclusion zone” outside the Strait of Hormuz in the coming days, warning ships that enter without coordination could face sanctions affecting insurance and future passage, as US-Iran tit-for-tat strikes continue and shipping traffic hits its lowest levels since May. Oman-Iran Shipping Talks: Iran and Oman negotiations on a temporary safe-passage route are said to be in the final stage, with possible registration steps with the International Maritime Organization. Travel Advisory: Oman’s embassy in Indonesia urged Omani citizens to exercise caution after volcanic ash led to a temporary suspension of flights at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. Heritage & Volunteers: A World Heritage Volunteers forum in Bahla is running for 11 days, bringing together young local and international volunteers to support conservation of traditional crafts and cultural exchange. Tourism Policy: GCC states are moving toward a unified tourist visa “soon,” aiming to make travel easier across Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman. Oman Connectivity & Trade: Oman and Rwanda are deepening ties via air connectivity and logistics partnerships, while Egypt and Oman plan a direct maritime route linking Duqm and Salalah with Egyptian ports. Oman Travel Tech: Oman’s Digital Educational Atlas has been launched, alongside a GeoAdvances 2026 conference in Salalah. Hospitality Investment: Orascom Development and Muriya say they’re pressing ahead with three Oman projects (Hawana Salalah, Jebel Sifah, As Sodah Island), with plans for major hotel-room additions. Sports Travel: Oman’s national hockey team heads to Japan for final preparations ahead of the Asian Games.

Strait of Hormuz Disruption: Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has fallen to the lowest level since May, with only about 10 commodity ships transiting per day over the past 10 days after US and Iranian strikes on tankers. Maritime Risk Escalates: The US says it disabled two Iranian crude carriers and destroyed a third in the Gulf of Oman, while Iran/IRGC says it targeted tankers on “unauthorised” routes and US-linked vessels—raising fears of wider escalation. Oman’s Diplomatic Role: Oman’s UK working group meeting in Muscat highlighted efforts to de-escalate in the Strait of Hormuz and boost tourism, education and cultural exchange. Travel & Tourism Boost: Oman’s airports won nine ACI Customer Experience Awards (Muscat: 4; Salalah: 5), while Indian tourist arrivals rose 11% in 2025 (6.94 lakh) and continued into 2026. Culture on the Move: Oman wrapped its first-ever official pavilion at the Moscow International Book Fair, promoting heritage and cultural ties. Local Life for Visitors: Oman’s autumn weather is easing gradually, and a Dhofar press forum focused on media’s role in development and tourism promotion.

Indian Tourism Boom: Oman welcomed 6.94 lakh Indian visitors in 2025, up 11% year-on-year, and logged 3.81 lakh arrivals in Jan–Jun 2026, driven by better air links to Muscat and growing interest in family, luxury, adventure and nature trips. Aviation Awards: Muscat International Airport and Salalah Airport won nine Airports Council International (ACI) ASQ Customer Experience Awards in Istanbul, with Muscat taking four honours and Salalah five, including “Most Enjoyable Airport” and “Cleanest Airport.” Standards for Travel Quality: Oman’s Standards and Specifications Index rose 33.8% by Q2 2026, with new work extending into AI, EVs, renewable energy, logistics and tourism—aimed at stronger quality and safer visitor experiences. Dhofar Road Push: Two road projects in Dhofar were inaugurated, adding about 380 km of asphalt network to improve connectivity and support tourism and local development. Cultural Tourism Spotlight: Oman’s first participation at the Moscow International Book Fair featured an official pavilion showcasing Omani culture, heritage and publications, aiming to build new cultural and academic links. Desert Adventure Event: Bidiyah Sands Carnival 2026 (19 Nov–19 Dec) will blend motorsport, sports, entertainment and desert tourism, anchored by the Oman International Baja under FIA standards. Regional Security Watch: US-Iran tanker clashes around the Strait of Hormuz escalated again, with both sides trading strikes on oil tankers and US-linked vessels, raising fresh concerns for maritime travel and energy routes.

Strait of Hormuz Security: The US and Iran traded retaliatory attacks on ships again, with the US saying it “permanently disabled” two Iran-linked oil tankers and destroyed a third after Iran launched ballistic missiles at US warships; Iran’s IRGC claims it then targeted three “US-affiliated” vessels and three tankers transiting “unauthorised” routes, warning shipping near the strait. Sports & Tourism: Oman’s beach soccer team is under pressure ahead of the AFC Beach Soccer Asian Cup Thailand 2026 (Nov 18–28), with preparations reportedly set to start in early October and include camps and friendlies before travel to Thailand. Dhofar on the Move: Dhofar’s Salalah International Cycling Tour is underway, featuring the Dhofar Classic won by Spanish cyclist Eduardo Sepúlveda, while Dhofar also received a boost to road connectivity with new 380km projects inaugurated. Infrastructure & Connectivity: His Majesty Sultan Haitham ratified the Oman-UAE railway agreement advancing the $2.5bn Hafeet Rail link from Sohar through Al Buraimi and Al Ain to the UAE network. Oman Travel Pulse: Passenger traffic through Oman airports fell 8.1% by July 2026, with Muscat International handling about 6.86m passengers. Investment Showcase: Oman will bring urban development and property opportunities to London via the “Live Oman” initiative on Sept 21.

Oman–Rwanda Diplomacy: Oman and Rwanda reaffirmed plans to deepen cooperation ahead of President Paul Kagame’s upcoming official visit, building on ties dating back to 1982. London Investment Push: Oman will bring its “Live Oman” initiative to London on Sept 21, pitching urban projects and real estate opportunities to UK and international investors. Aviation Snapshot: Muscat airport handled about 6.86m passengers by end-July 2026 (down 8%), with Omani nationals the top travellers; total GCC airport passengers fell 8.1%. Musandam Tourism Drive: Musandam is positioning itself as a sustainable tourism and investment hub, banking on mountains, inlets, islands and heritage. Dhofar Cycling Festival: The Salalah International Cycling Tour kicked off in Dhofar with 95 cyclists from 28 countries, aiming to spotlight tourism and grow local talent. Rail Connectivity: His Majesty Sultan Haitham ratified the Oman–UAE Hafeet Rail agreement, a $2.5bn, 238km link connecting Sohar to the UAE network via Al Buraimi and Al Ain. Khareef Dhofar Wrap: Dhofar’s Khareef Season 2026 is set to close soon after 300+ events, with a focus on youth projects and SME marketing. Hospitality Expansion: Muriya plans to add around 1,000 hotel rooms across Hawana Salalah and Jebel Sifah over the next 3–5 years.

Rail & Connectivity: His Majesty Sultan Haitham ratified the Oman–UAE cross-border railway agreement, advancing the $2.5bn Hafeet Rail project linking Sohar with the UAE network via Al Buraimi and Al Ain, with passenger travel targeted at about 100 minutes and freight designed to move large volumes for ports and industry. Hospitality Growth: The Ascott group’s MEAT expansion continues, with Oman among key markets as the operator scales properties and keys across the region. Dhofar Tourism Economy: Khareef Dhofar 2026 wrapped up after 300+ events, with officials highlighting youth projects and SME marketing, while local businesses reported strong seasonal demand. Accommodation Expansion: Muriya plans about 1,000 additional hotel rooms at Hawana Salalah and Jebel Sifah over the next 3–5 years, alongside further investment progress at As Sodah Island. Travel Safety & Access: Oman’s regional travel context remains sensitive as Strait of Hormuz tensions affect shipping and broader travel conditions, while Thailand’s visa-free rules are set to shorten stays from Sept 15 (including for some nationalities). Business Links: Oman–India Business Forum 2026 is set for Sept 9 in Muscat to leverage CEPA and open trade, services and investment opportunities.