OMRAN Group Partners with UnderTheDoormat to Revolutionize Oman’s Tourism with Short-Term Rentals and Digital Innovation

Published on September 9, 2025

Oman is taking a bold step toward transforming its tourism landscape, as the Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) announces a strategic investment in the UK-based short-term rental platform, UnderTheDoormat Group. The investment, worth RO1.81 million (approximately $4.7 million), signals a forward-thinking approach to expanding alternative accommodation options in the Sultanate. This partnership is part of OMRAN Group’s broader initiative to modernize Oman’s tourism sector and diversify its offerings in line with the country’s long-term vision under Oman Vision 2040.

A Game-Changer for Oman’s Tourism Sector

As part of its ongoing commitment to improving Oman’s tourism infrastructure, OMRAN Group has teamed up with UnderTheDoormat Group to create a robust digital framework for short-term rentals. This initiative will empower property owners, local communities, and small businesses to expand their reach through advanced digital platforms. The new system will allow hosts to list properties on international platforms such as Airbnb, Booking.com, and Expedia, greatly enhancing visibility and competitiveness in the global tourism market.

Shabib bin Mohammed al Maamari, Managing Director of Visit Oman, highlighted the significance of this investment, stating that it aligns with OMRAN Group’s focus on adopting innovative digital solutions to strengthen and diversify Oman’s tourism sector. By empowering local communities and property owners, this collaboration aims to make Oman a more attractive destination for international travelers while boosting the country’s economic growth.

Expanding Short-Term Rentals Across Oman

OMRAN Group’s partnership with UnderTheDoormat Group goes beyond simply expanding accommodation options—it’s a strategic effort to incorporate digital solutions into Oman’s tourism landscape. The collaboration will introduce a fully integrated infrastructure for short-term rentals, ensuring that properties meet quality standards and comply with local regulations. This move will help increase the competitiveness of Oman’s tourism industry, particularly by providing visitors with a wider range of affordable and diverse lodging options.

The expanded short-term rental framework will support the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and local communities by offering tools to help them grow their business. With the backing of global platforms, local hosts will be able to market their properties to a broader audience, increasing tourism traffic and boosting local economies.

Increasing Competitiveness through Global Exposure

One of the key benefits of this partnership is the ability for local property owners to list their units on some of the world’s most prominent travel platforms, including Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia, and Homes and Villas by Marriott Bonvoy. This will open up a wider range of options for visitors, making it easier for them to book accommodations that suit their needs while visiting Oman. In addition to increasing visibility, the partnership will also include targeted marketing campaigns aimed at attracting a diverse group of international visitors.

The introduction of short-term rentals will also increase Oman’s tourism competitiveness in the global market. By allowing local hosts to offer unique, affordable, and flexible accommodations, OMRAN Group is helping the country differentiate itself from other regional tourism destinations and create new growth opportunities for local businesses.

Expanding Tourism within OMRAN Group’s Integrated Tourism Complexes

OMRAN Group’s efforts to expand short-term rentals within the Sultanate will be particularly visible in its Integrated Tourism Complexes (ITCs), including Al Mouj Muscat, Muscat Bay, Jabal Al Sifah, and Hawana Salalah. These areas are known for their luxurious facilities and scenic locations, and introducing short-term rentals will help attract a more diverse range of travelers to these destinations.

The new framework will enable property owners and investors within these complexes to offer more affordable options for visitors, complementing the high-end offerings already available. The addition of short-term rentals to these areas will further enhance their appeal, especially for tourists looking for more flexible accommodation choices, which are becoming increasingly popular.

Empowering Local Communities and SMEs

Beyond offering more accommodation choices, this initiative will empower local communities and SMEs by providing them with the tools and technology to succeed in the rapidly evolving digital economy. By supporting property owners with the necessary resources to list their properties on global platforms, OMRAN Group is contributing to the growth of Oman’s local economy. This will also enable small businesses to expand their customer base and compete more effectively in the tourism industry.

Oman’s tourism sector is already known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, and this new initiative will help attract a wider variety of tourists—especially those looking for more personalized and unique accommodation experiences. The increased number of short-term rentals will complement existing hotel offerings and cater to a growing segment of travelers seeking flexibility and affordability.

Building Oman’s Future as a Tourism Leader

With the introduction of short-term rentals and a new digital infrastructure, Oman is positioning itself as a leader in regional tourism. The partnership between OMRAN Group and UnderTheDoormat Group is just the beginning of the country’s efforts to innovate and diversify its tourism offerings. As more visitors discover the beauty of Oman, this partnership will play a crucial role in maintaining the country’s status as a premier tourism destination in the Middle East and beyond.

By integrating sustainable, digital solutions into its tourism industry, Oman is creating a modern, competitive, and welcoming environment for travelers from all over the world. This partnership not only supports the growth of short-term rentals but also reinforces OMRAN Group’s commitment to enhancing Oman’s position on the global tourism map in line with Oman Vision 2040.

[Image Credit: Omran]