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Observer
05-07-2025
- Business
- Observer
Oman global hub for adventure tourism
MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman is rapidly gaining recognition as an international destination for adventure tourism, drawing growing interest from around the world. This momentum aligns with the country's efforts to leverage its natural and cultural assets to bolster the tourism and heritage sectors, in line with its goals of economic diversification and sustainable development. The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, in collaboration with relevant authorities, continues to monitor this sector's growth while ensuring the provision of all necessary tourist services. These efforts have helped position Oman as one of the world's safest destinations for adventure activities, adhering strictly to safety and security standards. Yousef bin Rashid al Harrasi, Head of Product Development at the Ministry, emphasised that diversifying tourism offerings is a core strategy aimed at attracting more visitors and enriching their experiences, particularly in adventure tourism — a segment that continues to gain traction globally. Oman's remarkable geological and natural diversity makes it a magnet for adventurers of all kinds. Al Harrasi highlighted the Al Hajar Mountains are key locations offering activities such as hiking, zip-lining, caving, wadi swimming and mountain exploration. Dhofar and Musandam governorates are also becoming increasingly popular among adventure tourists. He noted a significant rise in interest from both international and domestic tourists, with licensed tourism companies now offering a wide range of adventure packages, all in compliance with the Ministry's safety regulations. To support these activities, the Ministry has installed 73 information and directional signs; and 30 detailed trail signs across the Hajar ranges and Muscat Governorate. These aim to promote awareness of mountain trails and encourage adherence to safety protocols. Oman's approach to regulating the adventure tourism sector draws from international best practices. In particular, the Ministry studied New Zealand's model, regarded as a global benchmark for managing adventure activities safely and effectively. As a result, Oman has established itself as a leader in this domain. Additionally, a legal framework has been introduced to regulate adventure activities through appropriate licensing standards. The Ministry is currently developing a regulatory framework for adventure tour operators, along with a safety and risk audit system. Training centres have been set up to provide specialist instruction, identify suitable locations for adventure activities and encourage private investment in the sector. Yousef bin Rashid al Harrasi, Head of Product Development at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism. Al Harrasi revealed that the Ministry is preparing to sign an agreement with the Ministry of Defence, specifically with the Adventure Training Centre of the Royal Army of Oman. The goal is to enhance safety compliance and offer professional training for Omani tour guides involved in adventure tourism. Furthermore, a specialised training programme on first aid and mountain rescue has been implemented in partnership with the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority. So far, eight training courses have been conducted, targeting employees of adventure tourism companies and local adventurers to strengthen their capabilities in emergency response. In May, the Ministry hosted a delegation from the Saudi Tourism Authority, including representatives from specialist tourism companies. The visit aimed to exchange knowledge and experience in regulating adventure tourism between the two nations. The delegation was briefed on Oman's regulatory framework, licensing process and guide accreditation procedures. Presentations by Omani tourism companies were also part of the agenda. Through these multifaceted efforts, Oman continues to strengthen its position as a leading destination for adventure tourism, combining regulatory rigour, natural appeal and strategic vision. — ONA
Muscat Daily
05-07-2025
- Muscat Daily
Adventure tourism in Oman grows with focus on safety and training
Muscat – Oman's adventure tourism sector is expanding steadily, drawing growing interest from international visitors as the sultanate leverages its natural landscape and heritage to support economic diversification under Oman Vision 2040, according to a Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) report. 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.
