Monday, September 16, 2024 In Muscat, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) reportedly finalized an agreement with Singapore’s Resorts World Cruises to boost cruise tourism to Oman for the upcoming winter season. This partnership is anticipated to significantly improve the economic returns from the cruise sector while enhancing relations with the Asian market. The agreement stipulates 46 scheduled cruise visits to Sultan Qaboos Port and 23 visits to Khasab Port.
Elevating Cruise Tourism to New Heights It was shared that the first cruise visit under this new arrangement will occur on November 4, 2024, at Khasab Port, with the next stop scheduled for Sultan Qaboos Port on November 5. Each cruise ship is expected to carry approximately 2,000 passengers, underscoring the growing significance of cruise tourism for Oman’s economy. This influx of passengers is projected to have a notable impact on local businesses and tourism services.
Launch of Resorts World Cruises’ New Gulf Fleet Earlier in the month, Resorts World Cruises had unveiled its new vessel, Resorts World One, designed for Gulf waters. Commencing November 1, the ship will be based in Dubai and offer three weekly departures. These include a two-night Sir Bani Yas Weekend Cruise, a three-night Oman Cruise covering Khasab and Muscat, and a two-night Doha Cruise.
Passengers will have the option to extend their trips to durations ranging from four to seven nights, reflecting a growing trend towards more flexible cruise itineraries. MHT’s Strategic Role The MHT is reportedly playing a pivotal role in advancing the cruise tourism sector by collaborating closely with international operators and the private sector. The goal is to make Oman’s ports appealing destinations for a variety of cruise ships, thereby integrating them into global cruise itineraries.
The ministry’s efforts to enhance port facilities and services are aimed at fostering the growth of the sector as a key component of Oman’s tourism industry. This initiative is expected to contribute to increased revenue and economic diversification. Additionally, the MHT is said to be working with a prominent consultancy to further develop the cruise ship and yacht sector.
This collaboration will focus on creating a strategic plan to attract vessels of different sizes and improve port services to accommodate cruise passengers from a variety of international markets. Anticipated Surge in Cruise Tourism In 2023, Oman welcomed 321,012 cruise tourists who arrived on 202 ships at Sultan Qaboos, Salalah, and Khasab ports. The number of cruise tourists is projected to reach 380,000 this year, with 102 visits recorded between January and May alone.
This growth highlights the increasing appeal of Oman as a cruise destination and the positive impact of the new partnership with Resorts World Cruises. Key Points The partnership between Oman and Resorts World Cruises is likely to have significant global implications for the cruise tourism industry. By improving port facilities and expanding cruise options, Oman is positioning itself as a major player in the international cruise market, promising enhanced travel experiences for tourists and economic benefits for the region.
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