Muscat: As part of Oman’s national efforts to boost the tourism sector and safeguard consumer rights, the Consumer Protection Authority (CPA) launched a ‘Consumer Tourist’ initiative in collaboration with the Al Sharqiyah South Governorate Office and the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism.
The launch event took place at the Fath Al Khair Cultural Centre in the Wilayat of Sur, graced by the presence of Sulayem bin Ali al Hakmani, Chairman of Consumer Protection Authority (CPA).
The initiative coincides with the selection of the Wilayat of Sur as the Arab Tourism Capital for 2024, aiming to enhance tourists’ confidence in local services and raise awareness of their rights when purchasing goods or accessing services. This effort aligns with Oman Vision 2040 by promoting the Sultanate of Oman as a safe and attractive tourist destination, contributing to economic diversification.
The objectives of the initiative are to inform tourists of their rights and responsibilities as consumers; improve transparency and provide mechanisms for reporting unfair commercial practices; and raise the quality of products and services offered, enhancing the overall tourist experience.
Sulayem bin Ali al Hakmani emphasised the CPA’s dedication to creating a secure and integrated consumer environment. “Tourists are a vital part of Oman’s tourism sector. Protecting their rights and building their confidence in the services offered are our priorities. This initiative represents a strategic step in reinforcing their rights, positively reflecting Oman's status as a global tourist destination,” he said.
The launch ceremony featured artistic and cultural performances celebrating the rich heritage and history of Sur. Supporting entities and partners instrumental in the initiative’s success were honoured, underscoring the importance of collaboration in achieving shared goals.
A key feature of the event was the unveiling of the “Awareness Caravan", a mobile campaign designed to educate tourists directly. The caravan will visit popular tourist destinations in Al Sharqiyah South Governorate, distributing informational materials and providing guidance on consumer rights and responsibilities.
The initiative exemplifies close cooperation among the CPA, the Al Sharqiyah South Governorate Office, and the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, along with contributions from local entities. This collaboration highlights a unified vision of improving the tourist experience and strengthening Oman’s reputation as a premier travel destination.
“The selection of Sur as the Arab Tourism Capital 2024 is an opportunity to advance joint efforts in delivering an exceptional tourism experience. Through the ‘Consumer Tourist’ initiative, we strive to balance tourist rights with the provision of high-quality services,” said a representative from the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism.
Officials from the Al Sharqiyah South Governorate Office also stressed the significance of partnerships in achieving the initiative’s objectives.
“The ‘Consumer Tourist’ initiative demonstrates the power of collaboration in enhancing the tourist experience and reinforcing Oman’s global image. The ‘Consumer Tourist’ initiative reflects Oman’s forward-looking approach to consumer protection, aligning with global trends by focusing on tourist awareness and preventing unfair commercial practices.
“Protecting tourists is not only a national duty but also an investment in Oman’s tourism future. This initiative aims to foster trust and satisfaction among visitors, cementing Oman’s position as a preferred tourist destination,” Al Hakmani said.
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