International interest in Oman is on the rise with untouched stretches of coastline, rugged mountains, deserts and thriving capital Muscat, with its forts, palaces and old walled city.

A world-class destination with upscale tourism, a real estate boom, and a series of new mega-resorts adding a luxurious modern aspect to the nation’s cultural interest

boasting one of the most diverse environments in the Middle East, Oman has pursued a well-balanced environmental strategy to preserve its ecology, culture and past while fostering multi-faceted economic development. Oman’s natural beauty, rich history and vast array of archaeological sites and wildlife are drawing tourists from around the globe, which in turn is spurring the emergence of impressive large-scale developments and elegant, high quality, integrated resorts.

Tourism in the Sultanate has been increasing at a steady rate as visitor numbers and international interest continue to grow. The tourism industry in Oman achieved an average annual growth rate of around 6 percent during the period 2001 to 2004, with the government’s current five-year plan for 2006 to 2010 envisaging a rise to 7 percent per year. This optimism is supported by the World Tourism Organization, which has forecasted that the share of international tourism enjoyed by countries in the Middle East will double from 2.2 percent to 4.4 percent by 2020, resulting in 70 million arrivals in the region.

Oman’s government knows that shrewd investment in tourism and real estate will leave a lasting legacy, and tourism in particular forms a major pillar of its Vision 2020 program. Significant steps have been taken to attract investment and foreign companies to the sector, with real estate projects bringing in $19 billion over the past two years. The government’s policy is to attract upscale and high-spending visitors. “Our vision in making Oman a premier tourist destination encompasses many dimensions,” says Minister of Tourism Rajiha Bint Abdul-Ameer Bin Ali. “The establishment of world-class superstructure comes as a top priority, and is now underway with a number of mega-resorts and spas either already commissioned or due to start in the near future. Another dimension is the diversification of the products on offer, represented by opportunities opening in developing ecotourism, adventure and sports tourism.”

RAJIHA BINT ABDUL-AMEER BIN ALI Minister of Tourism

Faced with competition from world-renowned projects in neighboring countries, Oman is keen to raise its profile at international events. At the 2006 Arabian Travel Market held in Dubai in May, Omani tourism and real estate companies had the opportunity to showcase their mega-projects and also to highlight Oman’s favorable position on foreign ownership, freehold, and unrestricted repatriation of capital. Developments included the $20 billion Blue City – the Middle East’s largest such project. Other additions to the scene attracting interest are the newly opened $207 million Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa, The Wave fully integrated residential development complete with Greg Norman-designed golf course, and the Muscat Golf and Country Club. A new international airport is planned in Al Seeb, some 25 miles from the historical center of Muscat and where the city is developing most rapidly.

Although Omanis are considered to be among the most open-minded people of the Persian Gulf, the government is concerned about Western culture and tourists overwhelming Oman and its traditional heritage. To prevent any loss of culture, the government is stressing respectful quality rather than quantity in the tourist sector. Omanis also ask that visitors respect the local customs and traditions in an effort to not only highlight Oman's impressive heritage, but also to preserve its culture. By pursuing this policy, the government is hoping to protect its own heritage while promoting its natural wonders.