Oman's tourism strategy looks to boost MICE and incentive travel

Mr. Khalid Al Zadjali, Acting Director of Tourism Events for Oman's Tourism Ministry, said, "GITBM is a great venue to demonstrate Oman's commitment to meetings and incentive travel and to build trade awareness in Oman as an exciting niché destination. We are seeing strong growth in MICE business and see a bright future with the Sultanate's decision to build a 6000+ seat convention and exhibition centre in Muscat, due for completion in 2013."

Oman's reputation for niché conferences will be given added profile when Muscat hosts the 4th International Responsible Tourism Destinations Conference next October.

Mr Zadjali said, "We also welcome the 'leveraging' that comes flows from niche conferences like the International Responsible Tourism Destinations Conference. The Conference theme of 'Living Landscapes' fits well with our destination marketing, so we expect the conference will stimulate more adventure and nature-based travel."

A step-up in MICE activity is a priority in Oman's tourism strategy. The Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre will provide state-of-the-art facilities and make Oman a competitive venue for major global and regional events.

Mr Al Zadjali commented, "The new facility will complement the MICE capability of our leading hotels and resorts, and act as a 'springboard' for break-out groups and excursions to experience Oman's diverse regional landscapes and experiences. I am confident the combination of great facilities, services and powerful experiences will ensure meetings are successful and that our visitors will return home feeling they have learnt from Oman and Arabia."