Oman to Showcase Tourism Growth at Arabian Travel Market 2024
Muscat, The Gulf Observer: The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, is set to make a significant presence at the 31st edition of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) Exhibition, scheduled to commence on Monday in Dubai, UAE.
Amidst the backdrop of the Middle East region emerging as a frontrunner in post-pandemic tourism growth, Haitham bin Mohammed Al Ghassani, Director General of Promotion at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, emphasized the Sultanate’s commitment to fostering new relationships, exchanging expertise, and showcasing Oman’s burgeoning tourism sector.
“The Middle East region, according to indicators of the World Tourism Organisation, has witnessed the biggest tourism growth after the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Al Ghassani. “Oman’s participation in the Arabian Travel Market 2024 aims to establish new relations, exchange knowledge and expertise in the various spheres.”
The exhibition, recognized as a premier platform for promoting tourism, will serve as an ideal arena for Oman to highlight its tourism growth trajectory, particularly spotlighting the Khareef Dhofar season and other activities.
Al Ghassani underscored the strategic importance of the heritage and tourism sector in Oman, highlighting its pivotal role in the nation’s economic development. Oman’s tourism sector has witnessed consistent growth, with its contribution to the gross domestic product reaching 2.4 percent by the end of 2022. The number of tourists visiting Oman surged to approximately 4 million in 2023, marking a remarkable 36.7 percent increase compared to 2022.
Efforts by Oman, spearheaded by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, aim to position the country as a leading global tourist destination. This involves strategic collaborations, active participation in international forums, and a concerted focus on attracting tourists from non-traditional markets.
The Omani delegation, led by Azzan bin Qasim Al Busaidi, Undersecretary for Tourism at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, comprises 36 companies and establishments from the Sultanate’s tourism sector. Over 200 delegates from the global travel and tourism industry are expected to participate in the event.
The Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024 is themed “Empowering Innovation; Transforming Travel through Entrepreneurship,” with a focus on accelerating sustainability in the tourism and hospitality sector. Key events include sessions on entrepreneurship, specialized sessions for key tourism exporting markets, and activities aligned with the overarching theme.
The exhibition aims to foster innovation and contribute to the achievement of UN Sustainable Development Goals by promoting a more sustainable travel and tourism sector. In 2023, the Arabian Travel Market attracted over 40,000 specialized participants from the travel industry and over 2,100 exhibitors representing more than 150 countries.
As the Arabian Travel Market 2024 unfolds, Oman stands poised to showcase its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism, further solidifying its position as a premier global tourist destination.
