Gulf Air Chief to address forum in Oman

Organised by the Economist Group, the publisher of The Economist magazine, the high profile meeting will see Hogan taking part in a panel discussion entitled 'Developing infrastructure and tourism' along with other participants Her Excellency Rajha bint Abdulameer bin Ali, Minister of Tourism, His Excellency Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Essa Al Harthy, Minister of Transport and Communications, Government of Oman, Ahmed Abubaker Janahi, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, AAJ Holdings and Tiemen Meester, Chief Executive Officer, Salalah Port Services. Delia Meth-Cohn, Editorial Director of Economist Intelligence Unit will chair the panel discussion.

"The event is being held at an opportune time when Oman is in top gear towards promoting the country's tourism and developing its infrastructure," says Hogan. "I am glad to be part of this process.

"Besides, the Economist Conferences are known for delivering objective and informed analysis on chosen topics by harnessing and presenting diverse views, insights and opinions from policy makers, industry leaders and stakeholders."

At the panel discussion, Hogan will focus on the topic, "the development of tourism and infrastructure in Oman" with Gulf Air as an example and pioneer, and looking at the development from a GCC perspective and, from his experiences in doing business in Oman.

Participants will also discuss whether Oman can develop a new niche in tourism, besides other issues such as telecom liberalisation in Oman and the competitive profiles of Oman's three seaports.

"Ever since Gulf Air adopted the two-hub strategy, the number of direct non-stop Gulf Air flights to and from Seeb International Airport has increased by 45.5 per cent over last year and the airline now accounts for nearly 60 per cent of the passengers at the airport, far exceeding our expectations,"

adds Hogan. "This is a clear indication of the growth - not only of Gulf Air but also a reflection on passengers' growing interest in the country's tourism."

Economist Conferences, a division of the Economist Intelligence Unit, is the leading provider of unusually high-level international forums for senior executives seeking new insights into strategic issues. These meetings include industry conferences, management events and government roundtables held around the world, where senior executives gain insights, exchange views and compare strategies.