Saturday 28 / February / 2026
Muscat– The winter tourism season in the Sultanate of Oman is delivering strong results this year, reflecting the country’s growing appeal as a preferred destination for regional and international travelers.
Stretching from October to April, the winter season has seen a noticeable rise in visitor numbers and hotel occupancy rates across the country. The surge has been driven by increased demand from domestic travelers, GCC markets and key European countries, particularly Germany, France and Italy.
According to the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, revenues of hotels classified between three and five stars grew by 22.2 percent in 2025, reaching OMR297.3 million. The number of visitors in this category exceeded 2.37 million, underscoring Oman’s strengthening position as an integrated global tourism destination. Overall hotel guests reached 4.6 million, marking a 4.6 percent increase.
Domestic tourism remains a cornerstone of the sector’s performance. In 2024, local visits climbed to 13.6 million, reflecting strong community engagement with Oman’s tourism offerings and contributing significantly to the sustainability of the industry.
The growth in demand has translated into improved operational and financial indicators. Experts noted increases in occupancy rates, higher average room prices and diversified revenue streams spanning leisure tourism, business travel and conferences.
Hotel infrastructure has also expanded rapidly. The number of hotel establishments rose to 1,368 in 2025, compared to 1,022 in 2024, while total room capacity reached 38,390 — an 8.7 percent increase. The ministry issued 383 preliminary approvals for new projects, with 114 hotels currently under development and expected to open in 2026 and 2027. Investments in integrated tourism complexes have surpassed OMR11.5 billion, reflecting continued investor confidence in Oman’s tourism market.
In Al-Wusta Governorate, Saeed bin Masoud Al-Hanzali, Operations Manager at the Crowne Plaza Duqm, said the hotel recorded improved occupancy and revenue performance compared to last year. He attributed the growth to a balanced mix of business tourism linked to Duqm’s economic projects and leisure travel from regional and European markets.
In Muscat, Fahad bin Mohammed Al-Husseini, Director of Sales and Government Relations at The Chedi Muscat, reported occupancy rates exceeding 85 percent during the winter season. He credited international promotional campaigns, participation in tourism exhibitions and influencer marketing initiatives for attracting visitors from Europe, Russia and China.
Musandam Governorate also recorded solid performance. Tariq bin Ali Al-Sahlani, General Manager of Atana Hotels and Resorts, confirmed a 7 percent rise in occupancy compared to last year. During peak winter periods, weekday occupancy ranged between 70 and 72 percent, rising to between 90 and 93 percent on weekends. He added that average revenue per room increased by 8 percent, with positive spillover effects on restaurants, marine activities and tour services.
In Dhofar Governorate, Maher Bahsoon, General Manager of the Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah, described the season as particularly strong. The hotel recorded growth in individual and group bookings, longer guest stays and increased demand for sea-view accommodations. European and CIS markets showed notable expansion, supported by additional direct charter flights to Salalah.
Meanwhile, Amer bin Abdullah Al-Zadjali, CEO of Al Sawadi Beach Resort, said occupancy during November and December reached 75 percent. He noted that regional and international visitors accounted for 60 percent of total arrivals during the winter season and highlighted the importance of expanding air connectivity, particularly with Russia.
Observers believe the positive indicators reflect the success of promotional campaigns, enhanced air links, diversified tourism products and strengthened cooperation between public and private sectors. Together, these efforts are reinforcing Oman’s competitiveness and laying the groundwork for continued sustainable growth in future tourism seasons.
