Latest news with #OmanKiteFestival
Times of Oman
33 minutes ago
- Business
- Times of Oman
Oman Kite Festival shares the beauty of Al Ashkharah with athletes from around the world
Muscat – The penultimate leg of the Oman Downwinder, part of the Oman Kite Festival 2025 set off from the Pink Lagoon headed for Al Ashkharah, demonstrating the untapped natural beauty in the South Al Sharqiyah Governorate. Organized by OMRAN Group in partnership with Oman Sail, Visit Oman, and Oman Adventure Centre, the Oman Kite Festival reflects the commitment of all stakeholders to develop sports tourism and capitalize on Oman's unique coastline as a world-class tourism experience. Ayman Abdullah Al Ghafri won the leg, ahead of Al Mukhtar Abdul Karim Al Mujainiin second and Ahmed Mohammed from Egypt in third. These results puts Al Mukhtar Abdul Karim Al Mujainion top, with Ayman Abdullah Al Ghafrisecond and Ahmed Mohammed in third. With just one more leg remaining, from Ras Al Jinz to Ras Al Hadd on 24 July, the Oman Kite Festival 2025 has successfully showcased the potential of the Omani coastline to attract domestic and international tourists as well as reinforced the Sultanate's position on the international map of adventure and marine sports events. A slalom competition will also take place on 24 July at Ras Al Hadd, showing the complexity of kite surfing and the visual appeal from a spectator perspective with 90 top-ranked international Kite Festival athletes all taking part. This will be followed by the closing ceremony at Sur Waterfront where the prizes will be presented. In attendance will be the Governor of South Al Sharqiyah, H.E Dr. Yahya bin Badr Al Ma'awali, Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO of OMRAN Group, Dr. Khamis Salim Al Jabri, CEO of Oman Sail, Senior management from both organizations, and representatives from event sponsors and partners. Abdullah Al Farsi, Operation Manager, said, 'The Oman Kite Festival is a key part of OMRAN Group's ongoing efforts to promote adventure tourism and harness Oman's natural assets — especially in coastal destinations like Bar Al Hakman, Ras Al Hadd, Masirah, and Al Ashkharah. To be able to do this with such a high caliber of athlete and of competition highlights the potential for Oman's distinctive coastal destinations to become exceptional platforms for tourism experiences. 'The geographic and thematic expansion of this year's festival activities, building on the success of last year's Oman Downwinder, reflects the Group's vision to develop high-quality events that drive tourism movement. This has been an excellent example of institutional collaboration, through a partnership between OMRAN Group, Oman Sail, and the national travel operator, in cooperation with South Al Sharqiyah and Al Wusta governorates, alongside other entities and government authorities — all of whom deserve our sincere appreciation.' The Oman Kite Festival serves as a platform to showcase the Sultanate's exceptional coastal and marine landscapes, reinforcing its presence on the global tourism map and attracting enthusiasts of adventure sports and international sporting events. Building on the success of the 2024 Oman Downwinder, the festival aims to position key coastal destinations as premier global kiteboarding venues. It also contributes to the promotion of experience-driven tourism in underexplored areas, supports domestic travel, fosters community development, and raises awareness of Oman as a leading destination for adventure and outdoor experiences. Theevent is organised by the OMRAN Group, Oman Sail, Visit Oman, and Oman Adventures Centerin collaboration with the Governorates of South Al Sharqiyah and Al Wusta, Salty Rider, and Red Bull Oman.
Observer
16-07-2025
- Business
- Observer
Excitement in the air as Oman Kite Festival kicks off in Bar Al Hikman
The skies above Bar al Hikman came alive on Tuesday with colour and movement as the Oman Kite Festival was officially launched, ushering in a high-energy, coast-to-coast celebration of sport, sustainability, and community. Kicking off the festival, Dr Hashil Al Mahrouqi, CEO of Omran Group, welcomed athletes, spectators, and community members to the opening ceremony, setting the tone for what promises to be one of the most dynamic watersport events Oman has hosted. Organised by Oman Sail and proudly supported by Omran Group, the 10-day festival (July 14–24) brings together a diverse lineup of international and local kitesurfers, who will compete in a series of races and freestyle showcases spanning Oman's eastern coastline—from Bar Al Hikman and Al Ashkharah to Masirah Island and Ras Al Hadd. 'There's been a lot of excitement leading up to this,' said Firas Asqul, Project Manager at Oman Sail. 'From studying the market, we felt it was the right time to host a large-scale, public-facing event. We're thrilled to see it finally take off.' The event schedule includes competitive highlights such as the Kite Course Race at Bar Al-Hikman (July 15), the adrenaline-pumping multi-stage Downwinder Race (July 16, 20, 21), Big Air and Freestyle Shows on Masirah Island (July 17–18), a Coastal Race in Ras Masirah (July 19), and the grand finale Slalom Race at Ras Al Hadd Lake on July 24. For Omani participant Khalfan Al Athubi, a sailing skipper who has been kitesurfing for four years, the challenge goes far beyond competition. 'I've always wanted to try a downwinder. I've never done long distance before—not even in training—so I'm really excited. Hopefully I can go far with it.' In addition to sporting excitement, the festival also showcases Oman's commitment to sustainability, tourism, and youth engagement in line with Oman Vision 2040. Community beach clean-ups, a small business exhibition at Al Ashkharah Park, and artisan markets give the event a cultural and environmental dimension—connecting sport to purpose. Senior leaders from Omran and Oman Sail, including CEO Dr. Khamis Al Jabri of Oman Sail and Johanna Ilic from Omran, were present at the opening to show their support. Their remarks emphasised the national importance of the festival as a platform for showcasing Oman's stunning coastal landscapes, supporting local talent, and drawing international attention to the country's growing watersports scene.
Tourism Breaking News
14-07-2025
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
OMRAN Group Collaborates with Visit Oman to Launch #WithinOman Summer Staycation Campaign, Promoting Local Tourism and Enriching Visitor Experiences
Post Views: 46 Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) has officially relaunched its #WithinOman campaign in collaboration with the National Travel Operator (Visit Oman) to stimulate domestic tourism, encourage exploration of Oman's diverse destinations, and celebrate the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Sultanate of Oman. Running until the end of August, the campaign presents a wide range of exclusive staycation packages and curated experiences across OMRAN Group's hospitality assets and experiences. This year's campaign features discounts on room stays, food and beverages, complimentary child stays, and engaging adventure, heritage, and wellness experiences. Through Visit Oman's leading-edge digital booking platform, visitors can now easily plan their complete travel itineraries with just one click — offering ultimate convenience and flexibility for travellers within and outside the Sultanate of Oman. More than just a seasonal offer, the #WithinOman campaign aims to reinforce Oman's position as a compelling year-round tourism destination and enrich domestic tourism; it also contributes to enhancing travel itineraries, turning every journey into a personalized, immersive, and fulfilling experience. 'We're thrilled to collaborate with OMRAN Group on the rollout of the summer campaign, marking a significant milestone in expanding Visit Oman's leading-edge digital booking platform. Now serving both trade partners and travelers, the platform delivers a seamless user experience with dynamic product offerings — all just a click away. This initiative underscores the group's shared commitment to advancing national efforts that boost domestic tourism and celebrate Oman's extraordinary diversity, from the dramatic fjords of Musandam to the lush Khareef landscapes of Dhofar,' said Shabib Al Maamari, Managing Director of Visit Oman. Participating hotels and resorts include iconic properties such as Al Bustan Palace, W Muscat, JW Marriott Muscat, Crowne Plaza OCEC, Atana Musandam, Atana Khasab, Crowne Plaza Duqm, Alila Hinu Bay, and Dusit D2 Naseem Resort Jabal Akhdar among others — offering bespoke packages for families, friends, and adventure seekers alike. The campaign also features activities and attractions such as Al Hoota Cave, the Musandam Zipline, Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, SeaOman water experiences, and various events, including the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, Rummana pomegranate festival in Jabal Akhdar, and the Oman Kite Festival, ensuring a rich and immersive experience for everyone. To book and explore the full range of offers, visit For campaign updates and to share your summer moments, follow @VisitOman_om on Instagram and use the hashtag #WithinOman.
Muscat Daily
13-07-2025
- Muscat Daily
Omran summer staycation campaign promotes local tourism
Muscat – Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran Group) has launched a campaign called #WithinOman aimed at promoting domestic tourism and encouraging residents to explore the country's diverse destinations in collaboration with the National Travel Operator Visit Oman. Running till the end of August, the campaign offers exclusive staycation packages and curated experiences across Omran's hospitality portfolio. It features discounts on accommodation, food and beverages, complimentary child stay, and a range of activities, including heritage, wellness and adventure experiences. Bookings can be made through Visit Oman's digital platform, allowing travellers to plan full itineraries with ease. The campaign targets both residents and visitors, positioning Oman as a year-round tourism destination. 'The summer campaign marks a milestone in expanding Visit Oman's booking platform, now serving both trade partners and travellers,' said Shabib al Maamari, Managing Director of Visit Oman. 'This initiative supports national efforts to boost domestic tourism and showcases Oman's rich diversity – from the fjords of Musandam to the khareef of Dhofar.' Participating hotels include Al Bustan Palace, W Muscat, JW Marriott Muscat, Crowne Plaza OCEC, Atana Musandam, Atana Khasab, Crowne Plaza Duqm, Alila Hinu Bay, and Dusit D2 Naseem Resort in Jabal Akhdar. Packages are tailored for families, friends and adventure seekers. The campaign also promotes attractions such as Al Hoota Cave, the Musandam Zipline, Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve and SeaOman water activities. Seasonal events include the Rummana pomegranate festival in Jabal Akhdar and Oman Kite Festival, as well as exhibitions at Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC). More information and bookings are available at and updates can be followed on Instagram via @VisitOman_om using the hashtag #WithinOman
Observer
13-07-2025
- Observer
Omran launches #WithinOman to promote domestic tourism
Muscat - Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN) Group) has relaunched its #WithinOman campaign in collaboration with the National Travel Operator (Visit Oman) to stimulate domestic tourism, encourage exploration of Oman's diverse destinations, and celebrate the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Sultanate of Oman. Running until the end of August, the campaign presents a wide range of exclusive staycation packages and curated experiences across OMRAN Group's hospitality assets and experiences. This year's campaign features discounts on room stays, food and beverages, complimentary child stays, and engaging adventure, heritage, and wellness experiences. Through Visit Oman's leading-edge digital booking platform, visitors can now easily plan their complete travel itineraries with just one click, offering ultimate convenience and flexibility for travellers within and outside the Sultanate of Oman. The #WithinOman campaign aims to reinforce Oman's position as a compelling year-round tourism destination and enrich domestic tourism; it also contributes to enhancing travel itineraries, turning every journey into a personalized, immersive, and fulfilling experience. 'This initiative underscores the group's shared commitment to advancing national efforts that boost domestic tourism and celebrate Oman's extraordinary diversity, from the dramatic fjords of Musandam to the lush Khareef landscapes of Dhofar,' said Shabib Al Maamari is, managing director of Visit Oman. Participating hotels and resorts include iconic properties such as Al Bustan Palace, W Muscat, JW Marriott Muscat, Crowne Plaza OCEC, Atana Musandam, Atana Khasab, Crowne Plaza Duqm, Alila Hinu Bay, and Dusit D2 Naseem Resort Jabal Akhdar, among others. The campaign also features activities and attractions such as Al Hoota Cave, the Musandam Zipline, Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, SeaOman water experiences, and various events, including the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, Rummana pomegranate festival in Jabal Akhdar, and the Oman Kite Festival, ensuring a rich and immersive experience for everyone.
