Adventure tourism in Oman grows with focus on safety and training
The ministry, in coordination with relevant authorities, is monitoring the sector's development by providing essential services and enforcing safety standards aimed at positioning Oman as a safe and attractive destination for adventure travellers.
Yousef bin Rashid al Harrasi, Head of Product Development at Department of Tourism Product and Experience Development at MHT, said adventure tourism remains a strategic focus. 'Diversifying tourism offerings, especially in adventure tourism, is key to increasing tourist arrivals and enhancing the overall visitor experience.'
Oman's varied landscape makes it well suited to outdoor activities. The eastern and western Hajar mountain ranges provide opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, zip-lining, cave exploration and wadi swimming. Dhofar and Musandam are also emerging as popular adventure destinations.
Harrasi emphasised the role of licensed tourism companies in managing activities compliant with safety regulations. To improve awareness and safety, the ministry has installed 73 direction signages and 30 information boards along mountain trails, particularly in the Hajar range and Muscat.
Drawing on international examples, particularly New Zealand's adventure tourism model, MHT has developed a regulatory framework that includes licensing, a risk auditing system and plans for specialised training and certification centres.
In partnership with Ministry of Defence, represented by Royal Army of Oman's Adventure Training Centre, MHT has launched a programme to audit safety standards and train guides. Eight training courses on first aid and mountain rescue have been held in cooperation with Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority. 'These programmes targeted Omani professionals working in the adventure tourism sector and local adventurers, aiming to enhance their preparedness, technical skills and ability to respond to emergencies,' Harrasi added.
In May, a delegation from Saudi Tourism Authority visited Oman to study its adventure tourism development. The visit included presentations by licensed Omani tour operators, a display of adventure activities equipment, and a field tour of Jabal Akhdar.
'This visit marked an important milestone in strengthening tourism cooperation between Oman and Saudi Arabia, particularly in the adventure segment. It also supported the broader goal of fostering sustainable tourism development in both countries,' Harrasi said.
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