Opinion

Why revitalizing the events sector can help drive economic growth

The Exhibitions, Conferences, and Events Committee of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) plays an important role by discussing issues of interest to companies operating in the events space. The committee also addresses challenges facing the sector, especially after the recent pandemic that greatly impacted the events space for four long years. It seeks to enable members of the Chamber to play their desired role in promoting economic growth through the organization of exhibitions and other such events.

According to Committee officials, the events sector can help promote economic growth by showcasing opportunities for internal and external investment through exhibitions. This requires empowering this sector while also enhancing incentives and facilities for its workforce. Oman can leverage its vast natural, historical, and cultural assets, in addition to its modern infrastructure, to encourage international companies and institutions to participate in the exhibitions held in the country annually.

In this regard, the Chamber’s Exhibitions Committee stresses the importance of integration between the Omani private sector and various stakeholders in the country to enhance the attractiveness of exhibitions and work to enhance their competitiveness. The Chamber organizes many events and activities aimed at achieving the goals enshrined in the Oman 2040 Vision, especially those related to improving the business environment and expanding economic diversification.

From this standpoint, the Chamber is currently working on implementing a proposal related to revitalizing exhibitions by holding an expanded symposium that brings to together all stakeholders operating in the field of conferences and exhibitions. The forum will discuss challenges that contribution to a decline in private players organizing international exhibitions. Various proposals for invigorating local players will be deliberated upon as well.

The Oman Convention and Exhibition Center (OCEC) is considered the hub for international exhibitions held in Oman. Located close to Muscat International Airport, it features many modern halls equipped with technologies and capabilities for organizing major international exhibitions and conferences. This center offers world-class services with ample capacities to host major conferences and exhibition with delegate and visitor turnouts in their thousands.

During the coming months, Oman is set to host a number of large exhibitions with a focus on technology, building materials, food, health, education, and infrastructure. By providing platforms for networking, trade and information exchange, and product displays, these events will contribute to stronger investment inflows and economic development.