AGP Executive Report

Maritime Rescue in Oman: Oman’s Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority has taken over operational duties of the Marine Rescue Station, aiming to boost round-the-clock search-and-rescue and emergency medical response as maritime and tourism activity grows. Tanker Incident Off Oman: Indian authorities report 24 Indian sailors were airlifted to safety after a fire on the Palau-flagged tanker MT Marivex off Oman’s coast; the cause wasn’t confirmed, but the incident comes amid heightened Strait of Hormuz disruption. Strait of Hormuz Fallout: The Strait remains effectively shut, with new moves including a Europe-led push to demine the route and EU sanctions targeting Iranian parties tied to freedom-of-navigation threats—keeping global shipping and energy markets jittery. Tourism Innovation in Oman: Omran Group wrapped up its “Hikayat Balad” Business Accelerator, selecting seven startups to turn ideas into tourism-ready projects and improve visitor experiences. Adventure Tourism Push: Oman’s Heritage and Tourism Ministry promoted “Discover Oman” at the Ironman European Championship in Hamburg to attract international athletes and market Oman’s sporting events. Oman Travel Calendar: Oman’s Islamic New Year holiday is expected to be observed on Thursday, June 18, 2026 (subject to official confirmation).

Oman Tourism & Culture: Jabal Akhdar Festival 2026 is set to run from 15 July to end of August in Al Dakhiliyah, aiming to boost summer tourism and local economic activity with venues, facilities and support services being readied for visitors. Environment & Community: Oman’s Environment Authority marked World Environment Day with events on climate action, the Manakh (Climate) platform, ozone protection, clean energy and eco-tourism camps, with youth and specialists taking part. Investment & Tourism Pipeline: Future Fund Oman will announce on 9 June a package of strategic projects worth over RO 570 million, spanning renewable energy, industry, technology, healthcare, tourism, adventure tourism and food security, plus additional SME/start-up investments. Regional Travel Perks: Sri Lanka has granted free tourist visas to Omani citizens from 25 May 2026 via the ETA system for up to 30 days (with two entries under the same authorisation). Air Travel Upgrade: Philippine Airlines is set to join oneworld as its 16th member, bringing alliance benefits and wider connectivity for travellers across the network that already includes Oman Air and Qatar Airways. Sports Tourism Buzz: Oman’s Preeti Jaimani won silver at the inaugural World Yogasana Championships in Ahmedabad, as India dominated the medals table.

Oman Tourism & Heritage: Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has published a new scientific study on ancient three-stone nomadic monuments across Oman and Yemen, mapping 921 locations and 3,880 structures and shedding fresh light on their possible roles beyond burial sites. Sustainability & Travel: Oman marked World Environment Day with an Environment Authority event highlighting climate action, the Manakh (Climate) platform, clean-energy cooperation and eco-tourism camps—good news for travellers who want greener experiences. EV-Friendly Holidays: Oman is pushing electric mobility for visitors too, with plans to add EV charging stations at 3-, 4- and 5-star hotels, including Jabal Akhdar properties already listed as having chargers. Local Tourism Boost: The Jabal Akhdar Festival 2026 (15 July–end of August) is set to lift tourism and local economic activity in Al Dakhiliyah, with venues and visitor services being prepared. Oman Business & Investment: Future Fund Oman will sign new investment and strategic projects on 9 June worth over OMR570 million, including tourism and adventures, plus renewable energy, healthcare and food security. Regional Travel Perk for Omani Visitors: Sri Lanka will grant free tourist visas to Omani citizens from 25 May 2026 via the ETA system (up to 30 days, two entries).

Sri Lanka Visa Update: Sri Lanka will grant free tourist visas to Omani citizens from May 25, 2026 via the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), allowing up to 30 days with two entries under the same authorization, while Oman’s Foreign Ministry also urged travellers to keep passports valid for at least six months and carry health insurance. Oman Tourism & EVs: Oman is pushing electric mobility for visitors, with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism proposing EV charging stations at 3-, 4- and 5-star hotels through Tajawob, and highlighting growing charging availability in Jabal Akhdhar. Oman Development Watch: Rustaq’s City Walk project is now 25% complete, with bridge and floor slab casting finished and work underway on ground-floor columns, aiming to add retail, dining, a cinema, clinic, fitness areas and a motel. Oman Recognition: Oman ranked 4th globally in the 2026 Quality of Life Index, scoring 207.6 for safety, healthcare, stability and living costs. Aviation Alliance News: Philippine Airlines is set to join oneworld as its 16th member, expanding global connectivity for travellers, including Oman Air as an existing oneworld member. Business & Markets: Muscat Stock Exchange trading saw gains in bank shares, lifting the financial sector index, while the main index dipped for the week.

EV Tourism Boost: Oman plans EV charging stations at 3-, 4- and 5-star hotels, with Tajawob-backed rollout aimed at improving visitor convenience and supporting sustainable travel. Quality-of-Life Spotlight: Oman ranks 4th globally in the 2026 Quality of Life Index, scoring 207.6 for safety, healthcare, stability and livability. World Environment Day: Oman highlights conservation and climate resilience as sustainability becomes central to long-term development, from mountain habitats to Masirah turtle beaches. Archaeology & Heritage: A new study on “three-stone” nomadic monuments maps 921 sites across Oman and Yemen, expanding understanding of their functions beyond burial. City Development: Rustaq’s City Walk project is 25% complete, with plans for retail, cafés, a cinema, clinic, motel rooms and green public spaces. OIA Performance: Global SWF praises the Oman Investment Authority for boosting state-owned enterprise profitability and attracting foreign expertise aligned with Oman Vision 2040. Markets Watch: Muscat Stock Exchange banking shares lift the financial sector index, while the main index edges down on the week. Travel Disruption Context: Air Arabia outlines phased international flight resumptions from UAE hubs, including London Gatwick from July 4 and Vienna from June 25. Sports Tourism Angle: Oman’s cricket team books an Asian Games berth but falls to Hong Kong; meanwhile, Oman’s youth beach volleyball duo qualifies for FIVB U18 Worlds in The Hague.

Oman & Gulf Travel Demand: With the Khareef season nearing, tour operators say bookings for Salalah are building despite regional tensions, and they urge early planning as flights and hotels can spike in peak weeks. Weather Watch (UAE): The UAE is bracing for dusty, windy conditions with reduced visibility and possible fog/mist near coasts—drivers are warned to take extra care. Oman Sports (Cricket): Oman’s young men’s team booked an Asian Games berth but fell to Hong Kong by 154 runs, setting up a semi-final clash with Nepal. Youth Beach Volleyball (Oman): Haitham al Buraiki and Mazin al Salmani will represent Oman at the FIVB U18 qualifiers in The Hague after strong results in Asia. Regional Security & Travel Alerts: The U.S. has reiterated “reconsider travel” warnings for several Middle East countries including Oman amid high tensions, while the U.S.-Iran standoff continues to shape maritime and air travel planning across the region. Diplomacy: Angola and Oman highlighted strengthened bilateral cooperation after a high-level Omani envoy visit to Luanda.

Oman Travel Alerts & Flight Disruption: SalamAir has temporarily suspended flights between Oman and Kuwait until July 16, 2026, and services to/from Beirut until July 17, 2026, citing evolving regional conditions and safety/regulatory requirements. US-Iran Tensions Touch Oman’s Region: The US Embassy in Jerusalem issued a fresh security alert for Americans, keeping Oman at Level 3 (“Reconsider Travel”), while warning the situation across the Middle East can change quickly; meanwhile, reports say the US is quietly guiding some commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz despite blockades. Fuel Price Update: Pakistan’s federal government cut petrol by Rs4 per litre (to Rs377.78) while keeping high-speed diesel unchanged (at Rs380.78), with prices reviewed weekly amid Hormuz-linked supply strain. Tourism & Travel Business Moves: Aito has moved its 2026 Overseas Conference from Oman to Switzerland (Montreux) due to regional geopolitics, with Oman’s event postponed to 2027. Aviation Industry Watch: IATA’s 82nd AGM and World Air Transport Summit run June 6–8 in Rio de Janeiro, drawing global aviation leaders. Digital Wallet for Young Travelers: OMPAY launched JEEL, letting parents manage spending for children 7–17 inside the OMPAY app, supported by a Visa prepaid card and optional physical card delivery.

Oman Tourism & Travel Safety: The UK Foreign Office says it is not advising against travel to Oman, but urges “increased caution” after reports of limited missile and drone activity in the region. Digital Travel & Payments: OMPAY (Omantel) rolled out JEEL, a youth-focused digital wallet inside the OMPAY app that lets parents onboard ages 7–17, transfer funds, and track spending with controlled limits—useful for families travelling and managing daily costs. Roads & Connectivity: Oman’s Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology is pushing a major roads and logistics push under its “Quality and competitive road infrastructure” programme, including tourist access roads and logistics access roads, alongside large routine maintenance budgets. Aviation & Logistics Watch: Global heavylift airfreight is being hit by Middle East disruption, with charter demand rising and rates moving higher as shippers shift from sea to air. Regional Travel Advisory: The US State Department keeps Oman at Level 3 (“Reconsider Travel”) for Americans, citing unpredictable security conditions tied to the Iran conflict. Big Tourism Signal: Aito postponed its 2026 Overseas Conference in Muscat to 2027, moving the 2026 event to Montreux, Switzerland, citing regional geopolitical uncertainty. Airline Network: Qatar Airways expands Africa links, adding frequencies and launching Port Sudan service, with connections via Doha for travellers from Oman and the region. Wellness in Oman: JW Marriott Muscat hosted a Floating Soundbath Meditation, reflecting Oman’s growing wellness tourism mix of mindfulness and hospitality.

Hejaz Railway to Oman: Türkiye is pushing plans to revive and extend the historic Hejaz Railway, with talks involving Saudi Arabia, aiming to connect the route to Oman and create an alternative corridor to reduce reliance on the Strait of Hormuz. Oman logistics push: Oman’s transport and logistics overhaul is ramping up road upgrades, tourist access roads, logistics access links and maintenance spending to strengthen connectivity for trade and travel. Aviation & travel safety alerts: The U.S. Embassy issued a regional security warning to Americans, listing Oman among Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” destinations, urging extra caution amid fast-changing Middle East tensions. Qatar Airways expands Africa links: Qatar Airways will restart and add frequencies on multiple African routes, including new Port Sudan service, with connections for passengers travelling via Oman. Oman airport drug bust: Oman customs seized 6.179kg of marijuana at Muscat International Airport and arrested a passenger after packages were found concealed in luggage. Local travel disruption: Oman Drive is set for temporary closures for soapbox racing practice, with evening and weekend road closure times. Digital payments for youth: OMPAY launched JEEL, a youth-focused digital wallet for ages 7–17, letting parents transfer funds and track spending in real time. Tourism business events: Oman’s exhibition centre leadership was elected to lead UFI for 2027–28, underlining Oman’s growing role in business tourism and global events.

Corporate Travel Update: dnata Travel Group has appointed Maura Geertsma as its new Divisional VP for Corporate Travel, expanding leadership across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman and Iraq to boost strategic, tech-led travel services. Regional Travel Demand: VFS Global says travel demand from the region has rebounded and is slightly higher than last year, though visa appointment timing still depends on each embassy; early planning is key for Schengen trips. Oman Visitor Readiness: Oman’s MoCIIP has rolled out an integrated action plan for Dhofar ahead of Khareef, focusing on monitoring, strategic food stocks and fuel-station readiness to keep services steady for visitors. Tourism & Business Events: Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre CEO Said Al Shanfari has been elected UFI president for 2027-28, underlining Oman’s growing role in global business tourism. Adventure Season: Masirah’s kitesurfing season has begun, powered by steady south-west monsoon winds from June to September. Aviation/Travel Safety Watch: UN chief Guterres urged maximum restraint after reported US-Iran exchanges of fire and attacks involving Kuwait and Bahrain, a reminder that regional tensions can quickly disrupt travel plans. Customs Alert: Oman customs officials arrested a passenger at Muscat airport after seizing 6kg of marijuana.

Tourism & Travel Demand: VFS Global says outbound travel demand from Oman has rebounded after earlier visa service disruptions, with Schengen applicants urged to book early as appointment availability depends on each embassy. Dhofar Khareef Readiness: MoCIIP has rolled out an integrated action plan for Dhofar ahead of Khareef, focusing on monitoring, inspections, strategic food stocks, and fuel station readiness to keep services stable for visitors. Public Service Platform: Tajawob logged over 2.6 million visits and 785,000 active users by end of May, handling more than 235,000 requests including complaints, reports, suggestions and inquiries. Business Events & Exhibitions: Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre CEO Said Al Shanfari elected to lead UFI’s presidential trio for 2027-28, underlining Oman’s growing role in business tourism. New Tourism Projects: MHT signed usufruct agreements for a four-star resort in Al Hamra and a five-star hotel in Mirbat, with investment above RO12mn. Adventure Season: Masirah’s kitesurfing season has begun, powered by June–September monsoon winds that draw riders from Oman and abroad. Regional Travel Caution: Middle East flight disruptions continue amid Iran-US tensions, with Kuwait airport damage and airspace closures prompting diversions and delays. Maritime Trade Pressure: US CENTCOM says it disabled an oil tanker heading toward Iran’s Kharg Island, keeping Strait of Hormuz risks in focus for regional logistics and travel planning. Industry & Infrastructure: Türkiye plans to modernise the Hejaz Railway and extend it toward Oman to create an alternative trade corridor to Hormuz.

Oman Tourism Investment: Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) has signed two usufruct agreements for new hospitality projects—an estimated RO12mn-plus four-star resort in Al Hamra and a five-star hotel in Mirbat—aimed at boosting room supply, jobs, and local economic benefits. Dhofar Summer Demand: Oman’s ambassador to Kuwait says Kuwaiti visitor arrivals rose 17.2% from 2024 to 2025, making Kuwait Oman’s third-largest source market, with Dhofar’s khareef season (June 21–end September) driving growth as infrastructure and hotel capacity expand. Regional Flight Disruptions: After Iran-linked missile attack claims, parts of the Gulf saw airspace closures and flight diversions/delays, with airlines extending suspensions on routes including Dubai and Riyadh. Gold Watch: Gold prices across the Gulf were mostly steady on 3 June, with Oman’s 24-carat quoted at 57.40 OMR per gram. Travel Planning Tip (Oman): Oman’s next public holiday is Thursday, June 18, for Hijri New Year, giving many residents a mid-week break. Maritime Tensions: US forces reported disabling a tanker approaching Iranian waters, underscoring continued shipping risks around the Strait of Hormuz.

Oman Tourism & Culture: Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism launched the documentary Treasures of Omani Craft Heritage, spotlighting traditional crafts from palm weaving to copperwork and Al Tasfeer, with a focus on preserving skills and supporting crafts at risk. Dhofar Travel Boost: Oman’s ambassador to Kuwait says Kuwaiti visitor arrivals rose 17.2% (2024–2025), making Kuwait Oman’s third-largest source market, while Dhofar’s khareef season (June 21–Sept) is driving steady growth and hotel capacity for over a million peak visitors. Real Estate & Lifestyle: Al Mouj Muscat won two Real Estate Asia Awards 2026 in Singapore, including Residential Development of the Year – Oman for Azura Beach Residences III, reinforcing Oman’s push into premium waterfront living. Sustainable Tourism Ideas: Al Ghizain Walkway in Al Khabourah (Suhar area) is turning a historic village into a community-led, healthier, visitor-friendly space through restoration and public access. Travel Planning Note: Summer heat is also hitting comfort at home—reports highlight hot water from taps during peak daytime, with the likely cause traced to sun-heated external pipes. Regional Travel Context: GCC tourism is described as resilient despite regional uncertainty, with Saudi religious travel and Gulf expansion continuing to attract visitors. Maritime Tension Watch: Talks on Strait of Hormuz control continue between Iran and Oman as the US warns against tolling, keeping shipping and travel risk in the background.

Strait of Hormuz & Shipping: US forces guided about 70 commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz over three weeks, with many vessels turning off transponders; the strait remains risky as Iran warns ships without approval could face drone or missile attacks. Oman–Iran Talks: Iran says talks with Oman on Strait control are “well underway,” while the US warns against Iranian control and has threatened sanctions tied to any tolls. Tourism Growth (Dhofar): Oman’s ambassador in Kuwait says Kuwaiti visitor arrivals rose 17.2% (2024–2025), making Kuwait Oman’s third-largest source; Dhofar’s khareef season (June 21–Sept end) is driving demand, with visitor capacity now targeting over one million. New Oman Hospitality Projects: MoHT signed usufruct deals for a 4-star resort in Al Hamra and a 5-star hotel in Mirbat, with investment above RO 12m ($31m). Heritage & Culture: MoHT launched the documentary “Treasures of Omani Craft Heritage,” spotlighting crafts from palm weaving to copperwork and Al Tasfeer. Digital Media Boost: Oman’s Ministry of Information reported strong 2025 growth on the “Ayn” platform, with video/audio plays up 35% year-on-year. India–Oman CEPA: India–Oman CEPA entered into force June 1, giving duty-free access for 99.38% of Indian exports by value and covering 98.08% of Oman’s tariff lines. Travel Safety/People: Reports highlight stranded workers and workplace abuse claims involving Oman, underscoring ongoing concerns for migrant workers.

Strait of Hormuz Tensions: Iran says talks with the US are suspended while dialogue with Oman continues, as Trump warns Oman over Strait of Hormuz control and the US keeps pushing for open, non-Iran-controlled passage. Tourism Growth in Oman: Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism signed two new hospitality deals—RO 12m+ for a 4-star resort in Al Hamra and a 5-star hotel in Mirbat—aimed at boosting room supply and jobs. Dhofar Summer Push: Oman’s Ambassador to Kuwait reports Kuwaiti arrivals rose 17.2% (2024-2025), with Dhofar khareef driving demand and capacity now targeting over one million peak visitors. Local Infrastructure for Visitors: Muscat Municipality signed the Al Nuzha Street dual carriageway contract (11km) to improve traffic flow and access. India-Oman CEPA: The India–Oman CEPA enters into force June 1, cutting duties for most Indian exports—good news for trade links that support travel and services. Regional Travel Context: Sri Lanka launches free 30-day tourist visas (ETA fee waived) for citizens of 40 countries including Oman, to lift arrivals. Expat Reception: InterNations ranks Oman among the top expat destinations for easier settling in.

Oman Tourism Investment: Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has signed two usufruct deals worth over RO 12 million (about $31m) to build a 4-star resort in Al Hamra and a 5-star hotel in Mirbat—aimed at boosting hotel capacity, jobs, and tourism services. Local Development: Al Ashkharah waterfront in Jaalan Bani Bu Ali is now 55% complete, with a RO 5.8m plan including cycling and pedestrian tracks, green spaces, kids’ areas, and dining zones. Business Momentum: South Al Sharqiyah recorded 451 new commercial registrations in Q1 2026, bringing the cumulative total to 20,933, with construction leading activity. Duqm Talent Pipeline: SEZAD and Sultan Qaboos University will launch a two-week summer internship from 7 June for 18 students to work with companies in Duqm’s industrial and logistics hub. Regional Travel Watch: With Strait of Hormuz tensions ongoing, US forces say they’ve guided dozens of ships through the waterway, while Iran warns vessels to use designated routes—an uncertainty backdrop for travel and tourism planning. Trade That Could Boost Travel Links: India–Oman CEPA starts June 1, expanding duty-free access and services trade, with potential knock-on benefits for business travel and visitor flows.