Monday, September 16, 2024 The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) has entered into a strategic partnership with Resorts World Cruises, a Singapore-based company, to elevate Oman’s cruise tourism in the upcoming winter season. This collaboration is anticipated to significantly boost the sector’s economic impact while strengthening Oman’s ties with Asian markets. The agreement includes 46 scheduled visits to Sultan Qaboos Port in Muscat and 23 visits to Khasab Port.
The first cruise will dock at Khasab Port on November 4, 2024, followed by a stop at Sultan Qaboos Port on November 5. Each vessel will bring around 2,000 passengers, underlining the growing role cruise tourism plays in Oman’s economy. Earlier this month, Resorts World Cruises introduced its ship, Resorts World One, which will begin operating in the Gulf region from November 1.
The ship will homeport in Dubai and offer three weekly voyages: a two-night Sir Bani Yas Weekend Cruise, a three-night Oman (Khasab-Muscat) Cruise, and a two-night Doha Cruise. Travelers can extend their trips to four- to seven-night cruises. MHT continues to be instrumental in advancing Oman’s cruise tourism industry by collaborating with international cruise operators and private sector partners.
The ministry’s goal is to position Omani ports as key stops on global cruise itineraries, accommodating ships of all sizes. By upgrading facilities and expanding services, Oman seeks to make cruise tourism a vital component of its broader tourism strategy, contributing to economic growth and diversification. Additionally, MHT is partnering with a top consultancy to further develop the cruise and yacht sectors.
This initiative aims to attract a wide range of vessels and enhance port services, positioning Oman as a prime destination for cruise passengers from diverse global markets. In 2023, Oman received 321,012 cruise tourists across 202 ship calls at Sultan Qaboos, Salalah, and Khasab ports. With 102 cruise visits recorded between January and May this year, the number of cruise tourists is expected to reach 380,000 by year’s end.
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