Oman’s tourism industry will grow from 1.5 per cent of total GDP in 2010 to 2.4 per cent of GDP by 2020, said a new report.

Oman’s contribution to the economy by tourism-related activity is also expected to increase from 7.6 per cent of GDP in 2010 to 9.2 per cent of GDP by 2020, according to experts at the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).

In line with this, Oman’s Ministry of Tourism has formed a committee represented by the members of the local tourism industry to participate in enhancing the Sultanate’s tourism strategy.

The committee will also lay down an effective action plan to maintain and grow the healthy numbers of tourists arriving in the country.

The committee, which consists of airline, hotel, tour operator and tourism investment representatives, will work with the Ministry to create coordinated communications with key international markets to highlight the major tourism potential of the country.

“An enhanced marketing strategy for Oman’s tourism sector will ensure that tourist arrivals in the country remain high over the coming months,” said Salem Al Mamari, director general of Tourism Promotions, Oman Ministry of Tourism.

“This should be done on two levels; the delivery to international markets and media of an accurate, clear and effective message about Oman remaining as safe and welcoming to tourists as ever, and drawing attention to a number of completed or ongoing projects and activities which brings the experience of natural beauty and indigenous culture in the Sultanate to new heights,” he added.

Among the latest recognitions of Oman’s rise in international tourism was the presentation of the prestigious Most Improved Destination Award for 2010 to the Sultanate’s Port Services Corporation (PSC) by Dream Cruise World Destinations Magazine during the ‘Cruise Shipping Conference and Exhibition’ held in Miami recently. – TradeArabia News Service