The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) in Muscat has started its first discussion sessions for tourism companies from European markets as part of the “Marhaba Europe” event. This event aims to attract 70 tourism companies from countries such as France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Switzerland, Spain, and the Nordic countries. The goal is to enhance relationships and communication between local tourism sector partners and their European counterparts while promoting tourism products, experiences, and hotel facilities.
The first discussion session, titled ‘Global Tourism Trends Compared to Omani Tourism Trends,’ was held at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Center (OCEC) with key representatives from the MHT and other tourism authorities. The session highlighted key developments in both local and global tourism sectors and discussed ways to leverage these insights to support the Ministry’s goals for developing and promoting tourism in the Sultanate of Oman. Various speakers from organizations such as UN, Oman Airports, Visit Oman, and MHT shared their insights during the session.
The second discussion session, scheduled for the following day, will focus on ‘Strategic Planning and Future Collaboration in the Tourism Sector.’ A key focus will be on developed tour packages in the tourism sector and one-on-one meetings and joint discussions between Omani tourism institutions and their European counterparts. These interactions are expected to lead to the signing of cooperation agreements and introduce European companies to key tourism elements in Oman while providing updates on the latest developments in the tourism sector.
Al Ghassani, the Director General of Tourism Promotion at MHT, emphasized the importance of showcasing the diverse and rich natural, environmental, and cultural attractions of the Sultanate of Oman during the event. The goal is to offer an authentic Omani and Arab tourism experience to European tourists while highlighting the facilities, services, and offers designed to attract and meet the needs of European visitors. The sessions and presentations during the event aim to enhance the understanding of Oman’s tourist attractions, experiences, and heritage sites across various governorates.
Marhaba Europe is part of the MHT’s efforts to attract tourism from various markets and is included in the Ministry’s promotional plan for the current year. The event is expected to play a significant role in promoting the Sultanate of Oman as an important and luxurious global tourist destination, showcasing the country’s unique offerings to European tourists. The sessions and interactions during the event will contribute to a broader understanding of Oman’s tourist attractions and heritage sites, ultimately supporting the promotion of the Sultanate of Oman as a key tourist destination among European markets.
In conclusion, the discussion sessions and presentations during the “Marhaba Europe” event highlight the efforts of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism to promote Oman as a tourist destination among European markets. By bringing together tourism companies from European markets and local tourism sector partners, the event aims to enhance relationships, promote tourism products and experiences, and attract European visitors to the Sultanate of Oman. These sessions provide a platform for discussing key developments in the tourism sector, sharing insights, and fostering collaboration between Omani tourism institutions and their European counterparts. Overall, Marhaba Europe represents a valuable addition to the Ministry’s efforts to attract tourists from targeted markets and position Oman as a luxurious global tourist destination.