The Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), in collaboration with its Business Women's Committee and Tourism Committee, launched the ‘Women in the Tourism Sector’ forum on June 7, 2023. The forum features a group of accomplished Omani women who possess significant expertise in the tourism industry.
Areej bint Mohsin al Zaabiya, Chairperson of the Chamber's Business Women's Committee and a Member of the Board of Directors, emphasized that the primary objective of the Women's Forum in the tourism sector is to strengthen women's roles and empower them within this industry. It also aims to facilitate the exchange of knowledge, experiences, and successful practices among women, while fostering their capacity-building efforts. The forum holds immense importance as it provides an opportunity to benefit from the experiences and knowledge of women already engaged in the sector.
Al Zaabiya further explained that the forum serves as a platform for women to learn from experts and specialists in the tourism industry, enhancing their skills and increasing professional opportunities. The forum seeks to transform ideas into successful projects while encouraging participants to collaborate and tackle common challenges.
Dr Siham bint Ahmed al Harthiya, Chairperson of the Chamber's Tourism Committee and a Member of the Board of Directors, highlighted the growing significance of women's contributions to the tourism sector. Updated statistics indicate that approximately 54 per cent of the global tourism workforce comprises women, emphasizing their pivotal role in the sector's development. Moreover, data from the World Tourism Organization reveals that women occupy more than 40 per cent of jobs within the Middle East's tourism industry, signifying their increasing presence and influence.
Al Harthiya further noted that women's ownership of tourism companies is on the rise in several countries. In the United States, women currently own around 35% of travel and tourism businesses. Studies also suggest that promoting women's participation in the tourism sector can contribute to economic growth. According to a report by the International Labour Organization, achieving gender parity in the labor market could lead to a GDP increase ranging between 3% and 9%.
Furthermore, Al Harthiya emphasized that the tourism sector offers women the opportunity to engage in diverse economic and social activities, fostering financial independence, self-confidence, decision-making abilities, and skill development. Additionally, women play a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage within the industry. Many women now work as tour and cultural guides, promoting positive views about national heritage, and highlighting the significance of preserving customs and traditions.
The dialogue session featured the participation of prominent individuals such as Al-Zahraa bint Yahya al Sarhaniya, co-founder of Anat Café; Nour al Huda bint Majid al Manthriya, co-founder of the Odo project; Dr Salama bint Nassib al Farsi, a member of the Chamber's Tourism Committee; and Nadira bint Ahmed al Harithiya, an athlete and mountain climber. Hamad al Maamari, an employee of "Visit Oman" company, also contributed to the session.
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