How Oman Tourism’s Multi-City Engagement in Kolkata, Hyderabad, Indore, Kochi, Goa, and Bhubaneswar is Redefining Luxury and Cultural Travel for Indian Tourists

Tourism is one of the most powerful drivers of global economic growth, and countries are continuously seeking ways to strengthen relationships with key travel markets. For Oman, India has always been a crucial source of tourism, not just for leisure but also for business tourism. As the world slowly recovers from the effects of the pandemic, Oman has launched a strategic initiative to bolster its presence in the Indian market, specifically targeting cities like Kolkata, Hyderabad, Indore, Kochi, Goa, and Bhubaneswar. This initiative aims to foster deeper connections and boost Oman’s visibility as a prime destination for Indian travelers.

In June 2025, Oman Tourism launched a multi-city B2B engagement tour across India to strengthen partnerships with local travel agents and industry stakeholders. This initiative aims to enhance Oman’s visibility as a premier travel destination and tap into the growing demand for international travel among Indian tourists. The B2B engagement, spanning six major Indian cities, has become a key step in Oman’s broader strategy to promote its rich cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and luxurious travel offerings.

With a focus on fostering collaboration between Oman and India’s travel sectors, this initiative also signals Oman’s commitment to attracting Indian tourists who are increasingly looking for exotic, accessible, and culturally rich destinations. By strengthening these travel ties, Oman is positioning itself to capture a larger share of India’s rapidly growing outbound tourism market.

The Importance of India as a Key Source Market for Oman Tourism

India is a powerhouse in the global travel industry. With over 1.4 billion people and an increasingly affluent middle class, Indian travelers have become an essential segment for countries across the globe. Oman, with its proximity to India, a rich historical tapestry, and modern infrastructure, has long been a favorite destination for Indian tourists. However, as competition grows among Middle Eastern and Asian countries, Oman is making concerted efforts to ensure it remains top-of-mind for Indian travelers.

In fact, according to the Oman Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, India consistently ranks among the top ten countries for inbound tourism to Oman. The launch of the multi-city B2B engagement reflects Oman’s strategic vision to capitalize on this relationship, providing more opportunities for Indian travelers to explore Oman’s diverse offerings.

Why Oman Appeals to Indian Tourists:

• Cultural and Historical Significance: Oman’s rich history and cultural heritage resonate deeply with Indian tourists who seek authentic cultural experiences. With its ancient forts, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and centuries-old traditions, Oman offers an immersive experience for history enthusiasts.
• Proximity and Accessibility: The ease of travel is one of the key factors driving India-Oman tourism. With direct flights connecting major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and others to Muscat and Salalah, Indian tourists have easy access to Oman’s diverse offerings. The short flight duration (approximately 3-4 hours) makes Oman an ideal weekend getaway or short-term vacation destination.
• MICE Tourism: As business travel increases, Oman has developed world-class MICE facilities. With modern conference venues, state-of-the-art technology, and luxurious accommodation, Oman has positioned itself as an attractive destination for international business meetings, conferences, and incentive travel.
• Luxury and Adventure Travel: From the rolling dunes of the Rub’ al Khali desert to the pristine beaches along the Arabian Sea, Oman is a haven for both luxury travelers and adventure seekers. Indian tourists can indulge in a range of experiences, from luxury resorts and fine dining to trekking, desert safaris, and cultural tours.

The Multi-City B2B Engagement Tour: Strengthening Oman’s Travel Ties with India

Oman Tourism’s multi-city B2B engagement was designed to create strong, long-lasting partnerships with key players in the Indian travel and tourism industry. The roadshow targeted six major cities across India—Hyderabad, Kolkata, Indore, Kochi, Goa, and Bhubaneswar—with the aim of meeting with Indian tour operators, travel agents, and airline representatives.

The primary objective of this engagement was to provide these stakeholders with in-depth insights into Oman’s tourism offerings, highlighting key areas of interest such as cultural tourism, luxury travel, and MICE opportunities. Additionally, it served as a platform to discuss business opportunities, joint marketing efforts, and tailored tourism packages that cater specifically to Indian travelers.

Key Takeaways from the Engagement:

• Diverse Tourism Offerings: Oman presented its diverse tourism offerings, from historical sites like the Al Jalali Fort and Nizwa Fort to beach resorts in Salalah and the unique desert experiences in the Empty Quarter.
• Enhanced Connectivity: Direct flights between India and Oman were highlighted, underscoring the accessibility of the destination for Indian travelers. Airlines like Oman Air and Salam Air were instrumental in facilitating smooth travel routes.
• Business and Leisure Integration: Oman’s integration of MICE tourism with luxury leisure experiences was discussed in depth, positioning Oman as a destination that can cater to both corporate needs and relaxation.
• Cultural Collaboration: Emphasis was placed on fostering cultural collaboration between India and Oman, with opportunities for cross-promotion and the exchange of cultural tourism experiences.

Understanding Oman’s Tourism Potential for Indian Travelers

India’s outbound tourism market is evolving rapidly, with increasing interest in diverse international destinations. Oman is uniquely positioned to meet the needs of this diverse market by offering experiences that appeal to both leisure travelers and business professionals. Let’s break down the reasons why Oman continues to attract Indian tourists.

1. Natural Beauty and Outdoor Adventures

Oman’s landscapes are among the most diverse in the Middle East. From its stunning beaches and rocky mountains to its vast deserts, Oman offers a wide range of natural experiences for Indian travelers seeking adventure. Whether it’s snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Muscat or trekking in the rugged Hajar Mountains, Oman has something for every outdoor enthusiast.

• Beach Resorts: Oman’s beaches are known for their pristine beauty, and its luxury resorts along the coast provide the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
• Desert Safari: For those seeking more thrill, Oman’s expansive deserts, including the Rub’ al Khali (the Empty Quarter), offer unique opportunities for desert safaris, camel treks, and overnight camping under the stars.

2. A Hub for MICE Tourism

Oman is fast becoming a hub for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism in the region. With a variety of international-standard conference venues, Oman is ideal for corporate events, incentive programs, and business meetings.

• State-of-the-art Facilities: Oman offers modern facilities in cities like Muscat and Salalah that cater to international conferences and corporate events, attracting Indian businesses seeking global destinations for their conferences.

3. Rich Cultural Heritage

Indian tourists who are fascinated by history and culture will find Oman’s ancient forts, palaces, and historic mosques incredibly engaging. Key attractions include:

• Al Jalali Fort: A historical landmark with panoramic views of Muscat.
• Nizwa Fort: One of Oman’s most famous historical sites, showcasing the country’s rich heritage.

Oman’s cultural offerings are complemented by traditional markets (souks), museums, and local festivals that immerse visitors in the country’s traditions.

4. Accessibility and Direct Connectivity

The direct flight routes between major Indian cities and Oman’s capital, Muscat, ensure a seamless travel experience. Airlines such as Oman Air and Salam Air play a pivotal role in making Oman easily accessible for Indian travelers. These airlines offer multiple flights per week, making it convenient for both short leisure getaways and long-term stays.

The Future of Oman-India Tourism: What’s Next?

As part of its ongoing commitment to boosting tourism from India, Oman Tourism plans to continue engaging with the Indian market through various promotional campaigns and collaborative efforts with Indian travel agents. Future initiatives may include:

• Joint Marketing Campaigns: Collaborating with Indian travel agencies to create special travel packages and promotions.
• Incentive Programs: Developing exclusive offers and tailored incentive programs for corporate groups and businesses in India.
• Enhanced Digital Presence: Strengthening its digital outreach through social media, influencer partnerships, and targeted advertising campaigns in India.

Oman’s Long-Term Tourism Strategy for India

India’s increasing wealth and growing middle class are expected to continue fueling outbound tourism. Oman, with its diverse appeal, rich cultural offerings, and strong travel infrastructure, is well-positioned to benefit from this trend. By continuing to build strong relationships with Indian tour operators and introducing innovative travel packages, Oman aims to become one of the top destinations for Indian tourists in the coming years.

Conclusion

The multi-city B2B engagement in India marks a significant step in Oman Tourism’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its presence in the Indian market. By fostering deeper connections with Indian travel agencies, airlines, and MICE operators, Oman is positioning itself as an accessible, culturally rich, and diverse destination for Indian travelers. The country’s combination of modern infrastructure, historical attractions, luxurious resorts, and adventure experiences make it a compelling destination for all types of travelers—from business professionals to leisure seekers.

As Oman continues to build on these partnerships and promote its offerings through joint marketing campaigns, the future of Oman-India tourism looks promising, with strong growth potential in both leisure and business tourism segments.