Building Oman's sports economy from the ground up
'Unless we develop our grassroots or sports culture, whether it's in schools, in the maydans, or on the beaches of Oman, unless we promote this in our families or schools, we're not going to be able to get into the real business of sports.'
It's a powerful reminder. That quote—and the podcast episode as a whole—made me reflect on where we are as a country when it comes to sports. Yes, we're starting to attract major international events, but we must be equally ambitious in growing a culture of everyday sport and physical activity, especially for our children.
In many ways, this reflects exactly what we try to do at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC). Of course, we're proud to host international competitions—whether it was the FIFA World Cup screenings in our gardens in 2022 or the World Veteran Table Tennis Championships in 2023. But just as important are the everyday experiences: each summer, we transform our exhibition halls into an indoor sports hub, offering people a fun and affordable space to stay active and beat the heat.
Oman is naturally made for sports tourism. We've seen how our sister companies, like Oman Sail, are leading the way with events such as the upcoming World Sailing Inclusion Championships in 2025. But none of this happens in isolation. We need everyone—event organisers, schools, businesses, hospitality partners, and tourism boards—to come together to build something bigger.
We're fortunate to have a landscape that many countries envy: dramatic mountains, open beaches, warm winds, and a year-round climate perfect for all kinds of activity. But to truly take advantage of this, we need to engage the most important player: our communities.
Getting children into sport isn't just about fitness. It's about teamwork. It's about leadership. It's about learning to stay focused, persevere, and enjoy the journey. And ultimately, it's about making sport a bigger part of our national identity—an investment that also helps us attract global events.
That's why initiatives like Sports Spark matter. If we want to see Omani athletes on international podiums—or see Oman feature more prominently on the global sports calendar—it all starts with access. It starts with a child picking up a racket or kicking a ball in a space that welcomes them.
From July 18 to August 16, OCEC will once again open its doors for people to play, move, and connect—with summer camps for kids, corporate challenges, tournaments, and more. It's not just about putting on an event. It's about creating access, building habits, and helping people discover what sport can do for them—physically, mentally, and socially.
So if you haven't looked into it yet, now's the time. You might just find that it changes more than your summer—it could change your daily routine.
2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Zawya
an hour ago
- Zawya
Saudi Arabia taking centrestage in world tourism boom, says WEF report
With global tourist trips set to reach 30 billion by 2034 and tourism outpacing economic growth, Saudi Arabia has become a cornerstone in this transformation as the second fastest-growing tourism destination and home to some of the most significant investments, according to a World Economic Forum (WEF) report. Saudi Arabia is emerging as a global force in tourism transformation, driving innovation, investment, and sustainability at a time when the sector is poised to surpass economic growth worldwide. As the world prepares for an unprecedented 30 billion tourist trips by 2034, the Kingdom stands at the forefront of this momentum - not just as a destination, but as a catalyst shaping the future of global travel, according to a World Economic Forum (WEF) report. "With its bold Vision 2030, strategic leadership, and record-breaking visitor numbers, Saudi Arabia is redefining how countries can leverage tourism for inclusive prosperity, cultural diplomacy, and long-term resilience, it stated. Significant uptick in tourist trips The WEF report, Travel and Tourism at a Turning Point: Principles for Transformative Growth, produced in collaboration with Kearney and the Ministry of Tourism Saudi Arabia, predicts a significant uptick in tourist trips across the globe. The global tourism sector will contribute $16 trillion to global GDP (more than 11% of the global economy) by 2034, according to World Travel & Tourism Council estimates (WTTC) The report also found that the sector is expanding 1.5 times faster than the global economy, generating significant commercial opportunities as long as the mounting challenges of climate change, labour shortages and infrastructure gaps are addressed. Inbound, outbound trips increasing fast As per the WEF report, globally, Asia was on track to become the world's fastest-growing tourism economy, with the direct travel and tourism GDP contribution expected to exceed 7% across the region by 2034. Notably, India and China alone will represent more than 25% of all outbound international travel by 2030, it stated. Other than Saudi Arabia, countries such as Sri Lanka, Thailand and Indonesia are also poised for significant growth, driven by substantial investment in their tourism sectors. This momentum is leading to a rise in international arrivals, increased tourism-related business activity and greater global visibility. Equally, high-growth segments like sports tourism are projected to hit $1.7 trillion by 2032, and the ecotourism sector, which is growing at 14% CAGR, are redefining travel priorities. The global travel technology market, worth $10.5 billion in 2024, is set to nearly double by 2033, as 91% of industry tech leaders anticipate aggressive investment increases, it stated. To support this boom, the industry will need to expand significantly—requiring an estimated 7 million new hotel rooms, 15 million additional flights annually and investment in infrastructure capable of supporting 30 billion trips globally, it added. Risks and opportunities However, the report also flags significant risks. Travel and tourism currently accounts for 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, a figure that without intervention could rise to 15% by 2034. Waste generated by tourists is expected to reach 205 million tons annually, equivalent to 7% of the world's solid waste. At the same time, workforce shortages are escalating. The UK alone saw 53% turnover in 2022–2023, while the US hospitality industry continues to lag in hiring despite 16%-above-inflation wage increases. According to the WEF report, without decisive, coordinated action, the sector could face up to $6 trillion in lost revenue by 2030 from future disruptions, missing its potential to become a true driver of resilience, inclusion and regeneration. Børge Brende, President and CEO of the World Economic Forum, said: "As global travel accelerates, we are standing at a pivotal crossroads. The sector's potential to drive inclusive prosperity, cultural understanding and environmental regeneration is immense—but realizing this opportunity will require more than incremental change." "It calls for a bold reimagining of the systems that underpin travel and tourism, anchored in multistakeholder collaboration," stated Brende. "From aligning on sustainable fuel standards to empowering local communities in tourism planning, the time has come to redesign the rules to create a sector that works better for people and the planet. This report offers a blueprint to guide that transformation and unlock tourism's full promise in a rapidly evolving world," he added. Saudi Arabia - reimagining tourism Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, said: "This report cements a global truth: tourism is not just a siloed, standalone industry - it is an engine for economic growth, cultural understanding, and international cooperation that influences all aspects of the world's experience-driven economy." "As the sector expands, the global community must lead with purpose - reimagining tourism to be more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient," stated the minister. "In Saudi Arabia, we're investing in regenerative destinations, future-ready infrastructure, and talent development - not only to welcome 150 million visitors by 2030, but to help shape and support the future of global tourism. The story being written about tourism of the future is one of transformation, and we invite the world to be part of it," he added. Bob Willen, Managing Partner and Chairman at Kearney, said: "Tourism is a powerful driver of jobs, culture and economic growth around the world. As the industry grows to meet the needs of billions more travellers, it also needs to evolve. That means using technology responsibly, supporting workers and small businesses, protecting the planet, and making sure local communities truly benefit. "The principles in our report lay out a practical path forward from investing in greener infrastructure and building a more inclusive workforce, to preserving cultural heritage and planning for future crises. It's about creating a travel and tourism sector that's not just bigger, but works in everyone's interests," he added. -TradeArabia News Service Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( RIYADH
Zawya
an hour ago
- Zawya
SalamAir reports 12% improvement in OTP for Q2
SalamAir, Oman's low-cost carrier, has reported a 12% improvement in On-Time Performance (OTP) for Q2 2025, reaching an OTP of 88%. The airline operated 5,144 flights and carried 712,610 passengers between April and June 2025, demonstrating its commitment to punctuality despite operational and political challenges. Despite regional conflicts and external circumstances beyond SalamAir's control, the airline continued to deliver strong performance and ensure a reliable service for its customers. This reflects the airline's dedication to operational reliability and transparency. 'Delivering on-time service is not just a metric, it's a promise we make to every passenger who chooses to fly with us,' said Mohsin Al Balushi, Ground Operations Director of SalamAir. 'Achieving an OTP of 88% in Q2, above global benchmarks and up from 78% in Q1, reflects the dedication of our team and the trust of our customers.' Since Q3 2024, SalamAir has committed to publicly sharing OTP results on a quarterly basis. This initiative aims to offer greater transparency and help travelers make informed decisions based on reliable performance metrics. OTP is calculated based on the percentage of flights departing within 15 minutes of the scheduled time and includes all causes of delay, demonstrating a true reflection on airline performance and customer experience. -TradeArabia News Service Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Khaleej Times
2 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
What fuels India's Olympic champion? Neeraj Chopra on facing trolls; staying grounded
One of India's most decorated sportspersons in recent times, 27-year-old Neeraj Chopra is a shining example of what hard work and dedication can do. The first Indian athlete to win a gold medal in athletics (in his debut), we caught up with Neeraj Chopra at the Under Armour store in Bengaluru, where he is all smiles in a grey sporty attire. What instantly strikes you is his easygoing, amiable demeanour that remains a constant in this conversation. His most endearing quality, however, is his humility which belies his huge achievements. In an exclusive conversation with Khaleej Times, he recollects his memorable journey to date. Flashback Born into a family where his father is a farmer and mother a homemaker, Chopra had a normal upbringing, and sports happened quite by chance. Interestingly, for someone who did not really think of what he wanted to be when he grew up, he was clear that he wanted to work hard. And call it serendipity; he is today one of India's most successful javelin players. Going back to where it all started, Chopra recollects that being from Haryana, a state that is known for its sporting prowess, perhaps inspiration was all around. 'I entered the stadium for the first time with the intent of improving my fitness. During this time, I saw a few seniors throwing the javelin, and somehow, I felt that I wanted to do this too. But I had no clue whether I could play the sport, as I had no idea initially of how far I could throw. The first time I felt I could compete with international athletes was in 2016 at the IAAF World U20 Championships in Bydgoszcz, Poland. My throw of 86.48 metres was a world record. At that time this was enough to win a gold medal at the Olympics. And that is when I realised that this is what I wanted to and could do.' When he was studying in Khandra village in Panipat, he would go to school in the morning and then catch a bus to go to the stadium. 'Many times, the bus would not be on time, so I faced those problems as well, but somehow I managed until I finally shifted to Panipat, where I could train both in the morning and evening.' Moving to Panipat was a good decision, as this was also his first time experiencing professional training — a mix of javelin throw, jumps, and lifts. 'And as my performance started improving, I shifted to Panchkula, where it was good, as I trained for close to four years and understood how professional training and diet could impact my performance. In 2015, I was called for a national camp, and it was a great learning experience, as I saw senior athletes train and learned many new things that I could incorporate, especially the things I was not doing earlier.' As someone who has constantly kept a tab on learning, Chopra is seeing great results, which have seen him rise in stature in his sport. Gunning for glory Chopra's achievements on the field have been consistent, as seen by his performances that have seen him not just win almost all tournaments but also achieve several milestones. Not only did he win a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, but he has had several memorable outings at other events. Most recently he won two events back to back — the Paris qualification meet of the 2025 Diamond League as well as the Golden Spike Ostrava. Interestingly, Golden Spike is one of the most prestigious global athletics competitions in the world, and Chopra avers that while he was not very happy with his performance (85.29 metres), he is glad he won the trophy. Quiz him if he was disappointed with a silver medal at the 2024 Olympics, and he has a simple answer. 'At my second outing at the Olympics, of course there was pressure. With India being a large country, there was a lot of expectation from so many people as well. But in sports it's always about how well you do on that specific day. Some days are your days and some are not. Also, your body changes in four years, and on that day maybe another athlete is feeling better than you. But I was very happy that I could win another medal for my country, and I will ensure that I work harder and stay fitter to win more medals for my country.' And it is exactly this attitude that has held Chopra in good stead, having been coached by Uwe Hohn, Gary Calvert, Werner Daniels, Kashinath Naik, Naseem Ahmad and Jaiveer Singh, as well as biomechanics expert Dr Klaus Bartonietz (2019-24) and now Jan Železný from 2025. Changing so many coaches, however, Chopra admits that it has not really been easy. 'Javelin is a technical sport, and changing coaches means there is a need to unlearn and learn. Each coach has a different technique of training, and it's tough to follow different methods. But I worked with each of them to understand the sport more closely, so it's been good.' Interestingly, life has come full circle in a sense for the young athlete, especially with his current coach. From watching videos of Jan Železný (Czech athlete who is often thought of as being the greatest javelin thrower of the modern era) to being coached by him, Chopra admits it has been a wonderful journey. 'It is like a dream come true for me; it is wonderful to be trained by him. Even the coach likes it when I train with him. He was not just a great athlete but is also a wonderful coach. When I started getting interested in javelin initially, I always hoped to compete with him, but he had retired by the time I started professionally. So, even being coached by him is a big deal, and I am very fortunate about that.' Fit and fine Currently his fitness regimen has been decided by his coach and focuses more closely on techniques. This includes aspects like his run-ups so that the throw is perfect. 'I also do practice weights as well as ensure there is a more holistic and balanced fitness session that can help me perform better.' He is also careful about what he eats. As far as his current diet is concerned, he says that when he is competing, he increases his intake of carbohydrates, and during off-season time he incorporates a more protein-rich diet, ensuring hydration is in place. 'As training is more intense at this time, I ensure that there are adequate liquids in my diet as well, whether it is water, juice or even coconut water.' Mental health, he admits, is very important, and as a sports person, one is prone to injuries. Another aspect that most sportspersons need to deal with is that there are many times when, despite their hard work, they do not win any medals. 'But I feel it is my training that motivates me. I think if my training regimen is on schedule, it helps my mental health too. I also spend time with family and friends and go out with them, which helps as well.' At the Doha qualification meeting of the 2025 Diamond League, Chopra finally hit 90.23 metres, silencing people who were questioning his ability to throw the same. 'While I was personally not really thinking of breaching the 90-metre mark, it kind of started growing on me. This was because people around me kept asking about it, so I had thought about doing it. I, however, knew it was always possible, but maybe it was just about the right time. Now that it is done, I know I can do better, and that is exactly what I am focusing on now.' His preparation is on track for the Diamond League Finals in Zürich in August 2025, and he is also getting ready for the World Athletics Championships that will happen in September. 'My coach is also planning for the same, so we have complete focus on these events.' Handling the social media buzz While Chopra has been and is solely focused on his game, he recently found himself at the receiving end of social media trolls when he invited Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem, who won the gold at the Paris Olympics, to participate in the Neeraj Chopra (NC) Classic event in Bengaluru. The event named after Neeraj Chopra himself has been granted an 'A' category certification by World Athletics and will have Peters, Luiz Mauricio da Silva (Brazil), Thomas Rohler (Germany), Curtis Thompson (USA), Martin Konecny (Poland), Julius Yego (Kenya), Rumesh Pathirage (Sri Lanka), Sachin Yadav, Rohit Yadav, Sahil Silwal and Kishore Jena (India). While Nadeem will not participate, the invite was sent much before the Pahalgam attack. 'People who know the background and who understand the sports world are clued in on the issue. Also, it was not from my side, as Arshad had won the Olympic gold; he had to be invited. From the World Athletics team, we are mandated to follow the rules. But it is okay, as I was busy training, and that is where my focus always has been. Those who follow sports can understand what is right and what is wrong,' is all Chopra comments when we probe him about the controversy. As far as the forthcoming NC Classic (taking place on July 5) is concerned, he admits it is a big responsibility, and while he wants to play, he has other responsibilities as well. 'But the team is also working very well, and we are ready. I need to work harder now, and it's not just about playing, but I am very excited for what will come.' Interestingly, Chopra was in the news again when a fan called Ranjith from Coimbatore requested Rs2,000 on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), in a post that caught his attention. He immediately surprised the fan by offering him a full VVIP experience with accommodation, which is also a testament to his humility. 'You will be staying 90 metres away from the stadium,' is what he has told his fan. The NC Classic 2025 is also India's first global javelin competition, so there is a lot of attention on the same, and interestingly, it has notched up 16 brand associations as well. Looking ahead As a successful player, Chopra has also been the favourite of brands and has associations with Audi, Under Armour, Omega, Samsung, Gillette, and Visa, among others. However, what augurs well for him is his focus on the game and not the outcome. This year is also special on a personal note, as he got married in a low-key ceremony to former tennis pro Himani Mor. His former coach Klaus Bartonietz has been quoted saying it is his way of being 'immersed in the process' that has helped him and his game. Another characteristic that has held Chopra in good stead is his constant need to look at ways to improve. With an upbringing that has instilled in him a deep sense of integrity and humility, he is known for his dedication to the sport and has made a name as a professional. For someone who has always been on time and well prepared, it is his dogged determination that he is known for. All qualities that make him the athlete that he is. Looking ahead, Chopra says that he wants to focus on playing well, staying healthy and winning as many medals as possible for the country. In the latest javelin rankings that were released at the end of June, he is on top of the table with 1445 points, followed by Grenada's Anderson Peters with 1431 points. And as he sets his sight on the 20th edition of the World Athletics Championships in September 2025 in Tokyo, he knows that, as always, he will let his javelin do all the talking.
