Tourist numbers up 95.1% to over 1.5mn

Tourist numbers up 95.1% to over 1.5mn

Tourist numbers up 95.1% to over 1.5mn

8 Jul 2023

By OUR CORRESPONDENT

Muscat – The tourism sector in Oman has experienced a significant boost with a remarkable increase in the number of tourist arrivals, exceeding 1.5mn this year till May.

According to the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT), inbound visitor figures have surged 95.1% in January-May 2023 compared to the same period in 2022, indicating a promising recovery of the sultanate’s tourism industry.

The surge in tourist arrivals has translated into impressive revenue growth for 3- to 5-star hotels in this period. MHT statistics reveal a substantial 34.7% increase in hotel revenues to RO98.4mn compared to RO73mn in 2022.

Moreover, the number of hotel guests has seen an increase of 27.3% to 800,952 recorded till the end of May 2023, compared to 629,143 in the corresponding period of the previous year. Occupancy rate has also risen 13.6%.

The robust performance of the tourism sector and the positive indicators witnessed in Oman showcase the sultanate’s ability to attract a higher influx of tourists. With the onset of winter season this year, MHT anticipates a continued surge in visitor numbers and increased revenue generation, further fuelling the recovery of the tourism industry.