SALALAH: Dhofar Governorate hosted the 'Marhaba Dhofar' forum recently, under the auspices of Azzan bin Qasim al Busaidy, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Tourism, which brought together a diverse group of key stakeholders from Oman’s tourism sector and media representatives from Saudi Arabia.
The event marked a significant occasion for strengthening ties between the two nations, particularly in the tourism industry, with more than 70 Omani companies participating.
These companies included hotels, tour operators and service providers, all aiming to highlight the appeal of Dhofar Governorate as a premier travel destination.
During the event, Al Busaidy emphasised the growing importance of the Gulf region, particularly Saudi Arabia, in supporting Oman’s tourism ambitions. He explained that the 'Marhaba Dhofar' initiative is part of a broader strategy to attract Gulf tourists by promoting the governorate’s rich natural and cultural attractions. Dhofar Governorate’s unique environment, from its lush landscapes during the khareef season to its year-round pleasant climate, makes it a standout destination in Oman’s tourism portfolio.
A central feature of the event was an in-depth meeting between Omani officials and a delegation of Saudi media figures. This exchange aimed to strengthen Oman as a top-tier tourism destination. It also provided a platform to showcase the efforts being made to enhance infrastructure, diversify tourist offerings and elevate visitor experiences. These efforts are already showing positive results, as recent statistics indicate that over 100,000 Saudi tourists have visited Oman this year alone, reflecting the growing appeal of the Sultanate of Oman among the GCC countries.
The under-secretary attributed this surge in tourist numbers to Dhofar Governorate’s breathtaking natural beauty, diverse climate and the wide range of activities available to visitors. From adventure tourism to cultural experiences, Dhofar Governorate offers a multi-faceted attraction for travellers.
He stressed the importance of sustained cooperation between Oman and Saudi Arabia in the tourism sector. This collaboration aligns with Oman Vision 2040, which seeks to not only boost tourism, but also deepen economic and cultural ties between the two nations. The event was a clear indication of Oman’s commitment to positioning itself as a leading destination in the Gulf region, while also fostering long-term relationships with its Gulf partners.
Initiatives like 'Marhaba Dhofar' play a crucial role in shaping the future of tourism in Oman. The growing interest from Saudi tourists signals a promising future for cross-border collaboration, driving both economic growth and cultural exchange in the region.
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