Oman Witness its Winter Tourism Thrives with Strong Growth in Visitor Numbers, Hotel Occupancy and Revenues, Fueled by Demand from Domestic, GCC and European Markets

Published on March 1, 2026

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Oman’s tourism industry, which falls under the winter season, has been recording tremendous growth, characterized by an increase in the number of visitors, hotel occupancy, as well as revenues generated during the period. The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has reported an increase in the number of visitors to the country during the winter season, which falls between October and April. The season has witnessed an increase in the number of visitors from both domestic markets as well as the GCC region, Germany, France, and Italy.

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The winter season has been a critical period in the tourism industry of Oman, as it has given visitors from different parts of the world an opportunity to explore the scenic beauty of the country. The increase in the number of visitors to the country during the winter season has shown that the country has been effective in capitalizing on the diverse tourism resources available, making Oman a destination of choice for both local and international visitors.

Hotel Revenues and Visitor Numbers Reflect Winter Tourism Growth

The winter tourism growth in Oman is evident in the impressive rise in revenues and the number of visitors to the country’s three- to five-star hotels. Revenues from these hotels increased by 22.2% in 2025, reaching approximately RO297.3 million. Additionally, the total number of hotel guests grew to 4.6 million, marking a 4.6% increase from the previous year. These figures reflect the overall growth in winter tourism as Oman continues to attract both international and local visitors during the winter months.

Domestic tourism has remained a key pillar of Oman’s winter tourism growth. In 2025, 14 million local visits were recorded, with higher spending levels further boosting the sector’s performance. The domestic market continues to be a major contributor, and it is clear that the winter season provides an ideal time for local residents to explore Oman’s natural beauty, cultural sites, and warm hospitality.

Expanding Infrastructure to Meet Winter Tourism Demand

In response to the growing demand during the winter season, Oman has invested significantly in expanding its hotel infrastructure. The number of hotel establishments in Oman increased to 1,368 in 2025, up from 1,022 the previous year, showing that the country is not only attracting more visitors but also adapting its facilities to meet their needs. Moreover, the total number of hotel rooms has grown by 8.7%, reaching 38,390 rooms in 2025.

This expansion in hotel infrastructure reflects the country’s commitment to supporting winter tourism growth by providing a range of accommodations to suit both budget and luxury travelers. Additionally, authorities have approved 383 new projects, with 114 hotels currently under development and set to open between 2026 and 2027. This expansion signals continued investor confidence in Oman’s winter tourism market, further strengthening the country’s position as a leading destination in the region.

Key Destinations See Strong Performance in Winter Tourism

Several of Oman’s key destinations have seen notable growth in winter tourism, thanks to improved occupancy rates and higher demand for both business and leisure tourism. For example, in Duqm, the Crowne Plaza Duqm reported higher occupancy levels compared to the previous year, driven by local, GCC, and European demand. Saeed bin Masoud Al Hanzali, the hotel’s Operations Manager, noted that the combination of business travel linked to Duqm’s economic projects and leisure tourism contributed to a significant revenue growth for the hotel.

In Muscat, the Chedi Muscat recorded an impressive occupancy rate of over 85% during the winter period. According to Fahad bin Mohammed Al Husseini, the Director of Sales and Government Relations, the rise in occupancy was attributed to promotional campaigns, participation in international exhibitions, and increased access to key tourism-exporting markets like Europe, Russia, and China. These efforts helped attract more international tourists to Muscat, contributing to the overall winter tourism growth in Oman.

In Musandam, Atana Hotels and Resorts reported a 7% increase in occupancy compared to last year. Tariq bin Ali Al Sahlani, the hotel’s General Manager, mentioned that the property saw weekday occupancy ranging from 70% to 72%, with a significant rise on weekends, where occupancy reached 90–93%. The increase in demand for accommodation and leisure packages during the winter months has led to an 8% rise in average revenue per room.

Improved Air Connectivity Boosts Winter Tourism Performance

The success of Oman’s winter tourism growth can also be attributed to expanded air connectivity. The increase in direct international flights, especially from Europe and the CIS markets, has made it easier for tourists to visit Oman during the winter season. For example, Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah reported stronger early bookings and longer stays, supported by additional direct charter flights to Salalah from European and CIS markets. This enhanced connectivity has provided greater access to Oman’s tourism offerings, directly contributing to the rise in winter tourism.

Diversified tourism products have also played a significant role in attracting tourists during the winter months. Oman’s ability to offer a range of activities, from cultural excursions to desert safaris and beach resorts, has enhanced its appeal as a year-round destination. The country’s efforts to promote these products through targeted international campaigns have helped to build awareness and increase tourism arrivals during the winter season.

Oman Positioned for Continued Winter Tourism Growth

With further investments in the development of tourism infrastructure and promotional campaigns, the country is poised to continue to grow and improve in the winter tourism sector. Indeed, the country’s efforts to increase the number of tourists visiting the country during the winter months have borne fruit. Tourism officials and stakeholders in the sector express confidence in the country’s ability to sustain the momentum in the next winter seasons.

The increase in winter tourism in Oman is a clear indication of the country’s commitment to becoming the leading destination for both leisure and business travelers. With new hotel and tourism projects in the works and the country’s growing reputation as a year-round destination, the country is poised to achieve even greater success in the years to come and solidify its position as one of the best tourist hubs in the region.