‘India key market for Oman’

Arjun Chadha, Country Manager-India, Oman Tourism, underscores India’s pivotal role for Oman tourism. India stands as the second-largest source market for the country, only after the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which comprises six member countries, he says.

Janice Alyosius

Arjun Chadha, Country Manager for India, Oman Tourism, highlights the pivotal role that India plays in Oman’s rapidly growing tourism sector. “India stands as the second-largest source market for Oman’s tourism, only after the GCC, which comprises six countries,” he says.

The strategic focus on the Indian market has provided boost to Oman’s tourism efforts across diverse segments, including weddings, leisure, luxury, and M!CE. “We have not only surpassed the pre-pandemic figures but have also exceeded them up until September this year, 2023. This year, our aim is to comfortably exceed half a million Indian arrivals in Oman. This progress signifies the success of our efforts in showcasing Oman as an unexplored gem in the Middle East,” he says.

Describing Oman’s rich offerings, Chadha says, “From the Ministry’s perspective, we offer itineraries ranging from three nights to 14 nights, ensuring a diverse array of experiences without repetition throughout the 14-day period. Oman boasts of unparalleled diversity, from pristine white beaches to the highest mountains in the Middle East, stunning emerald green wadis, crystal-clear waters, vast deserts, and rich wildlife. Its landscapes offer an abundance of natural beauty, establishing Oman not merely as an addition but as a standalone destination. Indian travellers are increasingly recognizing its potential as their dream vacation spot.”

Chadha also emphasizes on collaborative efforts with Indian stakeholders. “We are actively collaborating with key travel trade stakeholders in India, engaging in pan-India joint marketing campaigns and tailored initiatives for regional players. The Ministry conducts regular Fam trips, including biannual trips for wedding planners, as well as for M!CE and leisure segments. Additionally, we organise roadshows across multiple cities and conduct sales missions, with a particular focus on tier II and III cities. Itinerary training workshops for travel agents in these cities beyond the metros are part of our strategy,” he shares.

Speaking about connectivity and visa facilitation, Chadha says, “Indian passport holders with valid US, UK, Schengen, Australian, Japanese, or Canadian visas enjoy a visa-free entry to Oman for up to 14 days at no cost. For those without these visas, obtaining an Oman visa is both economical and efficient. As for connectivity, Oman Air, the national carrier, offers direct flights from over 10 cities in India. The flight duration from Delhi to Muscat is comparable to Delhi to Mumbai or Delhi to Chennai, allowing travellers to land in Muscat around noon, thus providing ample time to explore the city.” He adds, “Oman’s excellent connectivity and hassle-free visa processes make it an easily accessible and enticing destination for Indian travellers, not just from major cities but also from various other cities across India. This concerted effort by Oman Tourism underlines its commitment to fostering an enduring partnership with the Indian travel market.”