‘Oman-India tourism to flourish’

His Excellency Issa Alshibani, Oman’s Ambassador to India, is a man with diverse interests. Among his multiple objectives, he is working hard on promoting tourism to Oman, especially from India. Strong foundation of trust and mutual respect has enabled the relationship between Oman and India to flourish, he says.

Inder Raj Ahluwalia

What is the core reason behind successful India-Oman relationship?

The strong foundation of trust and mutual respect has enabled the relationship between Oman and India to flourish, culminating in recent milestones, like His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq’s historic visit to India. This visit produced an aligned vision document, setting a collaborative path forward, focusing on sustainable development, technology, and energy. Both nations are committed advocates for peace, emphasising dialogue as a way to address regional and international issues. Together, Oman and India demonstrate how ancient ties can evolve into a partnership that meets modern global challenges.

Oman has an ancient history and is considered the birthplace of Islam. Has this shaped the country’s modern working?

Oman’s Islamic heritage, alongside its deep-rooted maritime history, has fostered a spirit of peace and collaboration that drives its modern diplomacy. Reflecting this legacy, Oman recently agreed with India to construct a traditional wooden stitch ship in India, honouring the shared maritime history of both nations. This ship, which will sail to Oman, symbolises not only our past but also our enduring commitment to cultural exchange and preserving traditional craftsmanship.

With similar cultures and heritage, do you feel tourism between India and Oman will see great growth?

It certainly will! Oman’s breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife attract visitors from India and beyond. Destinations like Jabal Akhdar, known as the Green Mountain, offer cool, scenic retreats, while the beaches of Ras Al Jinz provide a natural habitat for green turtles-a spectacle that appeals to eco-tourists and nature-lovers alike. These pristine sites, along with Oman’s dolphin-watching experiences and untouched coastline, are just a glimpse of what Indian visitors can experience in Oman.

Which destinations or attractions in Oman would you call truly special?

In addition to Jabal Akhdar, Oman’s cultural heritage sites, like its ancient frankincense trails, connect visitors to our history with India, where frankincense has long been valued for its medicinal and spiritual properties. Oman’s extensive coastline is home to vibrant marine life, from dolphins to unique coral reefs, providing rare encounters for visitors.

Our untouched beaches, Muscat’s Royal Opera House and planned museum collaborations with India will showcase these treasures, further linking our histories and cultural wealth.

What have you liked most about India during your stay?

The warmth and hospitality of the Indian people stand out, reflecting the strong cultural ties between our nations. While I’m new to kabaddi, I  have noticed that it has a unique place in both Indian and Omani communities. It’s fascinating how kabaddi, a game with ancient Indian roots, has crossed borders and become part of Oman’s sports landscape, likelybrought over through historic cultural exchanges.

What role do you see the India-Oman friendship playing in helping to create a better world?

India and Oman’s partnership sets a precedent for cooperation across sectors, from green energy and trade, to cultural heritage preservation. Through collaborations in museum exhibits and the promotion of traditional crafts, we are not only fostering economic growth but also reinforcing a model of cross-cultural understanding.