With aim to diversify its tourism offer, Oman’s Ministry of Heritage & Tourism is promoting adventure tourism and also signs an MoU with New Zealand to adopt best practices in the domain.

Seeing the growth in demand from across the world for adventure tourism in the country, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism of Oman is making efforts to achieve optimal utilisation of natural and cultural resources which contribute to developing the tourism and heritage sector and achieve the objectives of Vision 2040.

According to a press statement, the ministry follows growth in adventure tourism and provides all necessary services for tourists and shows Oman as the safest tourist destinations in the world. This is done by studying global practices, safety standards, legislative framework and via setting various projects in the light of a wide response by the tourism companies including this product in their programmes, adds the statement.

“Diversification of tourism products is one of the important methodologies in enhancing experiences for tourists,” says Youssef bin Rashid Al-Harassi, Head, Product Development Department, Directorate of Product Development and Tourism Experiences, Ministry of Heritage and Tourism.

Al-Harassi adds that there are several indicators for measuring the adventure tourism demand in the Sultanate such as Alila Jabal Akhdar Resort in the Wilayat Al Jebel Al Akhdar at Al Dakhiliyah Governorate, where the number of adventure tourists from January to December 2022 reached 1,950 persons. Similarly, the number of tourists in Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort reached 2,000, he says, adding that the number is constantly growing in all governorates.

Al-Harassi says that during the study, the New Zealand model was found to be the best in terms of applying security and safety standards and the legislative aspect, and Oman signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the New Zealand Government in this regard.

The ministry is working to implement projects that add value to natural ingredients, Al-Harassi adds. Under this, the first phase of the slide wire project at the Governorate of Musandam will be launched during 2023, he says.

Adventure tourism is one of the fastest growing types of tourism in the world, according to reports issued by the Adventure Travel Trade Association. It says that global adventure tourism market stood at USD 282.1 billion in the year 2021. It is estimated that the adventure tourism will grow at an annual growth rate of 15.2 pc during the year 2030.

Adventure activities in Oman

Exploring mountains and caves

One can enjoy climbing the rocky mountains in the eastern and western ranges of Al Hajar Mountains, or descending from the mountain using ropes, while exploring caves such as the Al-Hoota Cave in Al-Hamra, Muqal Cave in Wadi Bani Khalid, and the Jinn Council.

Sport of surf challenge

The sports of surf challenge can be practised from the highest mountains along more than 3,000 km of coastline. Oman is a world-class destination for water sports such as windsurfing and diving among others.

Flying sports

Flying sports can be practised through the sport of paragliding, which is witnessing a wide and growing demand.

Off-road thrills

Those with four-wheelers have the option to enjoy excursions full of excitement and unlimited fun through the roads of the Sultanate of Oman, whether those located on the top mountain peaks or in the depths of valleys.

Bicycling

Bicycling can be practised by the amateur and professional cyclists within the diverse and wonderful nature of the country.