Tag Archives: OMRAN

The Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) announced that the hospitality sector welcomed 820,365 guests across its hotel portfolio in 2024 — a 6% increase compared to the previous year. The portfolio achieved an average occupancy rate of 45%, marking a 2.6% increase year-on-year. A major milestone was achieved with the official opening of JW Marriott Muscat, further enriching the luxury hospitality landscape in the Sultanate of Oman. As part of its efforts to position Oman as a premier luxury tourism destination on the global map and to attract the world’s leading hospitality brands, OMRAN Group announced several strategic projects, most notably the Middle East’s first Club Med Resort that will be developed in Musandam, and the signing of a strategic partnership with Santani Wellness Resorts to introduce wellness tourism in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate. The Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) has announced strong financial and operational results, underscoring the Group’s sustained efforts and corporate excellence in advancing tourism development and supporting sustainable economic growth in the Sultanate of Oman, in close collaboration with key stakeholders. In 2024, the Group recorded a net profit of OMR 25.2 million and total revenues exceeding OMR 58.3 million, reflecting operational efficiency and the high standards of excellence embraced across its business operations. These achievements were presented during the Group’s recent Board of Directors meeting, where the Board reaffirmed its continued commitment to reinforcing the Group’s role in advancing economic diversification and amplifying its impact as a key catalyst for tourism development and investment in the Sultanate. Demonstrating its ability to attract high-quality investments, OMRAN Group secured over OMR 156 million in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) during 2024. This achievement aligns with Oman Vision …

Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism for Jamaica, has highlighted the importance of innovative global collaboration in strengthening tourism resilience during a high-level roundtable discussion put on by the Global Travel & Tourism Resilience Council at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) Dubai. “Tourism resilience remains a cornerstone of Jamaica’s international engagement and development strategy,” said Minister Bartlett. “The alignment we are witnessing between diverse stakeholders at forums like the Arabian Travel Market represents exactly the kind of global knowledge-sharing that will future-proof our industry against emerging challenges.” The exclusive high-level roundtable on destination development held on April 28th brought together 20 senior leaders from across the tourism sector, including representatives from UN Tourism, the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, Sabre, Intrepid, Horwath HTL and Roland Berger. Under the theme ‘Destination Development: Building for the Future,’ participants exchanged insights on sustainable growth, stakeholder engagement, infrastructure investment, destination branding, and regional cooperation. Minister Bartlett added, “Jamaica continues to lead the charge in tourism resilience through our Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre, and we are encouraged to see these principles being embraced worldwide. The insights shared at this roundtable align perfectly with our vision of building tourism ecosystems that can withstand disruptions while delivering authentic experiences and empowering local communities.” The Minister reiterated Jamaica’s commitment to fostering similar collaborative platforms across the Caribbean region and beyond, ensuring that tourism development remains inclusive, sustainable, and resistant to global challenges. “As we navigate the complexities of modern tourism, Jamaica stands ready to share our experiences and learn from global partners like OMRAN Group and Visit Oman. Together, we are building a more resilient future for tourism that benefits all stakeholders,” concluded Minister …

In a significant step towards fostering innovation and supporting entrepreneurship in Oman’s tourism sector, the Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) is launching the first edition of its Hackathon, taking place currently until 21 December 2024, the event brought together developers, designers, and young entrepreneurs to develop creative solutions addressing challenges in the tourism sector and other key areas, including energy, environment, logistics and other sectors. The hackathon will be held in strategic partnership with the Oman Across Ages Museum and Al Dakhliya Governorate. It will also collaborate with several Oman Investment Authority entities and be executed by Al Jabr, a regional leader in startup development and institutional innovation in the MENA region. The OMRAN Hackathon serves as a dynamic platform for technological and creative talent to collaborate in a competitive environment, crafting innovative ideas in fields such as technology, artificial intelligence, health, and environmental sustainability. Participants will work to transform these ideas into prototypes or actionable projects. The event launch will be celebrated on the 14th of December at the Oman Across Ages Museum. This will be followed by an innovation sprint at Dusit D2 Naseem Resort in Al Jabal Al Akhdar on 19 and 20 December, featuring two days of intensive brainstorming and mentorship. The Hackathon concludes with a ceremony on 21 December, also at Dusit D2 Naseem Resort, where teams will present their final projects to a panel of esteemed judges and compete for recognition and prizes. Developers, designers, university students specialising in technology, tourism, and business, as well as entrepreneurs from the tourism and technology sectors, are encouraged to participate. Out of over 100 registered teams, only 30 will be selected, ensuring a showcase of the …

Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) announced a record-breaking financial and operational performance in 2023, achieving a net profit of OMR 31.6 million and a 44.6% revenue growth reaching OMR 70.4 million. This record growth underscores the continued support from the Group’s Board of Directors and Executive Management, as well as the strategic partnership with the stakeholders and partners in the tourism sector, amidst the steady and comprehensive economic growth the country is experiencing, resulting in positive outcomes in the sector. The Group witnessed an 8% growth in the occupancy rate of its resorts and hotels compared to 2022. This rise was reflected in the number of guests, with a total of 774,881 guests, representing an 11.5% increase compared to 2022. These achievements were highlighted during the recent Board of Directors meeting. The board reaffirmed the Group’s commitment to strengthening its role in driving economic diversification and significantly increasing its impact as a leading catalyst for development and investment in the tourism sector. This record performance translates the success of the efforts made and the efficiency of the implemented plans, driven by outstanding operational performance across the board. The high revenue rates from resorts, hotels, existing projects, and new tourism experiences and products contributed significantly, alongside continued efforts to improve spending efficiency and operational performance in its subsidiaries and assets. The total book value of the Group’s assets amounted to approximately 671 million Omani Riyals, and equity exceeded half a billion Omani Riyals, reaching 539 million Omani Riyals, a substantial increase from 379 million Omani Riyals in 2020. The Group continues to develop and enhance financial and operational performance, improve operating expenses, boost the competitive capabilities of all owned assets, …

Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) launched the “Oman Downwinder” initiative as part of its ongoing efforts to achieve tourism diversification and its commitment to enhancing the adventure and experiences sector. This year’s races will start from the beaches of Duqm in Al Wusta Governorate, pass along the Omani coasts to the north, and conclude at Ras Al Jinz Reserve in South Sharqiyah Governorate. The races featured the participation of twelve professional athletes from both within and outside the Sultanate of Oman. The launch ceremony was held at the W Muscat Hotel, and attended by Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO of OMRAN Group, Dr. Khamis Salem Al Jabri, CEO of Oman Sail, and several officials from various entities. In this context, Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO of OMRAN Group, stated: “The Sultanate of Oman is endowed with abundant and diverse natural assets, making it a leading destination for offering unique tourism products and experiences. Organizing these races reflects our belief in the pivotal role that various sports events play in promoting and highlighting our tourism potential to the world, contributing to the growth of the tourism sector and establishing Oman’s position on the international tourism map.” Dr. Hashil highlighted that organizing these races aligns with the Group’s strategic directions aimed at achieving tourism diversification and enhancing the adventure and experiences sector by leveraging unique and diverse natural potentials. It also embodies the Group’s commitment to creating sustainable and eco-friendly experiences for adventure enthusiasts from around the world. Additionally, this event represents a significant opportunity to enhance Oman’s position as a prominent global destination for hosting sports events and adventure activities. Marcelo Antunes Ferreira, CEO of Sea and Beach …

The official inauguration of JW Marriott Hotel Muscat was celebrated in a grand celebration concurrent with the Sultanate of Oman’s 53rd National Day and in alignment with the National Tourism Strategy 2040, Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) heralds the completion of Phase I of Madinat Al Irfan East. This event marks the introduction of the globally acclaimed JW Marriott brand to Oman, signifying a momentous stride in positioning Oman as a leading global tourism destination. The inauguration ceremony was graced by His Excellency Salim Mohammed Al Mahruqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, along with esteemed dignitaries, OMRAN Group officials, and key figures in Oman’s tourism industry. JW Marriott Hotel Muscat, a 5-star facility with an investment of approximately 47 million Omani Rials, encompasses 304 rooms and suites. As part of the Marriott Bonvoy international hotel chain, it is the first JW Marriott branded hotel in Oman. Strategically located in the heart of Madinat Al Irfan East and directly linked to the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC), the hotel is poised to offer exceptional experiences to its guests, significantly contributing to Oman’s tourism sector. His Excellency Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahruqi remarked on the completion of Phase I of Madinat Al Irfan East, stating that it represents a pivotal stage in the urban development of the city, creating a vibrant tourist destination that celebrates Omani identity. With comprehensive facilities like the OCEC, designed to global architectural and environmental standards, this development aligns meticulously with Oman Vision 2040’s objectives to promote sustainable tourism development, economic diversification, and preservation of natural resources. Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, Chief Executive Officer of OMRAN Group, remarked, “This project is a direct reflection of our …

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) and Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collectively initiate and pursue cross-destination tourism promotion and marketing initiatives between the Musandam Governorate, Sultanate of Oman and the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. The agreement was signed in London at WTM, between Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority and Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, Chief Executive Officer of OMRAN Group during a signing ceremony held at the World Travel Market, one of the most influential annual global exhibitions on travel and tourism. The MoU provides an official platform for both parties to cooperate on initiatives aimed at attracting more international visitors while positioning Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam as leading global tourism destinations in the Middle East. The agreement will see leaders of both organisations work together to create opportunities for travellers to visit both destinations, Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam, in a single trip. The partnership between the destinations is a natural fit, with just a 90-minute drive between them and a shared mountain range, the majestic Hajar mountains, among a wealth of other shared natural landscapes. Furthermore, their intertwined cultural heritage and historical connections only serve to enrich and strengthen this unique collaboration. To this end, the MoU sets forth a framework for greater collaboration and dialogue on marketing initiatives to promote cross-destination tourism. This includes facilitating ease of access in transportation between Musandam and Ras Al Khaimah, developing favourable visa arrangements for international travellers to visit both destinations and initiating tourism packages, adventure offerings and partnership opportunities. Raki Phillips, Chief Executive Officer, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism …

Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) has partnered with the Global Travel and Tourism Partnership (GTTP) through a signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This significant partnership will initiate the launch of extracurricular programmes and activities specifically designed for 10th and 11th grade students as a part of the Group’s #IAmTourism Strategy. This groundbreaking agreement enables GTTP to offer an extensive curriculum of educational content in the field of travel and tourism through its e-learning platform, spanning a three-year period. The pilot phase is set to benefit over 100 students from select schools across the Sultanate of Oman. Furthermore, a team of career guidance experts will receive training on leveraging the platform to provide an immersive and fruitful learning journey for aspiring tourism professionals. The MoU was inked by Dr. Hashil bin Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO of OMRAN Group, and Michel Taride, Chair of GTTP Advisory Board. The ceremony was graced by HE Azzan bin Qassim Al Busaidi, Chairman of OMRAN Group, along with officials from the Ministry of Education. Dr. Hashil bin Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO of OMRAN Group expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in shaping national competencies that will underpin the growth of our vital tourism sector. It is perfectly aligned with our National Tourism Strategy, which places a strong emphasis on tourism education and training to bolster Oman’s standing in the competitive global tourism landscape.” Echoing his sentiments, Ms. Anne Lotter, CEO of the Global Travel and Tourism Partnership (GTTP), remarked, “Our alliance with OMRAN Group is a testament to our commitment to cultivating a deeper understanding of Oman’s rich tourism offerings. Through our specialized programs, we aim to carve out new professional …

Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) announced its induction as an affiliate member of the esteemed World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) during its 25th General Assembly in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. This affiliation underscores OMRAN Group’s commitment to fortifying efforts that champion sustainable and responsible tourism via its diverse development portfolio. Beyond fostering expertise and knowledge exchange, the membership aligns seamlessly with the Group’s strategic objectives, unlocking unique business opportunities within the global community. The affiliation further grants the Group a platform at prominent international events and initiatives, bolstering its value and global visibility. Ambassador Vilcu Lon, Director of the Affiliate Members Department at UNWTO, had the honor of presenting the membership certificate to Dr. Hashil Al-Mahrouqi, the CEO of OMRAN Group. OMRAN Group now gains access to a treasure trove of industry data and insights through UNWTO’s advanced digital platforms. Moreover, this membership avails a collaborative platform, allowing members to engage in meaningful dialogues, share knowledge, and forge synergies that strengthen the tourism sector, all while resonating with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UNWTO Affiliate Members Department (AMD) fosters public-private cooperation in tourism and the synergies among Affiliate Members and Member States. Bringing together around 500 private companies, associations, educational institutions, and DMOs. With its newfound membership, OMRAN Group is poised to amplify the outreach of its pioneering projects and initiatives. Moreover, it will mark its presence at several global events and conferences organized by the UNWTO. With unwavering commitment, the Group is geared to leverage this membership to its fullest, spotlighting its projects and investment opportunities.

As part of its ongoing endeavours to empower national competencies and enhance their skills and experiences in the tourism sector, Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) announced the launch of the first of a kind “Leadership Development Academy” and introduced its programmes (SHIFT & LIFT). The academy launch ceremony was held under the patronage of Al Mutasim Said Al Sariri, OMRAN Group’s Vice Chairman, and witnessed the presence of a number of members of the Board of Directors, CEO and officials from OMRAN Group, subsidiaries, and owned hospitality assets at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC). The Leadership Development Academy serves as a platform to enhance the leadership skills of the local competencies and foster a motivating professional environment. In addition to providing the tourism sector with qualified leaders who actively contribute to achieving this promising sector’s growth and development. Commenting on this occasion, Dr.Hashil bin Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO of OMRAN Group, said: “OMRAN Group is devoted to providing various programmes and initiatives that aim to harness national competencies, equip them with the knowledge, insights, and strategies needed to drive the growth and sustainability of our nation’s tourism sector.” He further added, “We affirm our commitment to investing in our human capital and their development in alignment with the national tourism strategy and our corporate objectives.” The ‘SHIFT’ programme will provide training courses in different management and leadership roles within the sector. Its first phase includes 40 participants from management levels at OMRAN Group and its subsidiaries. On the other hand, the ‘LIFT’ programme involves 20 candidates from hospitality assets, concentrating on developing leadership skills specifically for the hospitality industry. To ensure the high quality of the training …