How Farm Villas in Oman Can Drive Growth in the Tourism Investment Sector
Muscat: Traditionally serving domestic tourists, farm villas in Oman possess significant potential to attract international visitors seeking authentic and experiential stays.
In an interview, Ali Siddiqui, Research Manager at Cavendish Maxwell, emphasized the need for upgrading these properties. “To appeal to international guests, facilities must meet global hospitality standards for comfort and hygiene, and adopt professional digital booking platforms,” he stated.
Siddiqui highlighted the pivotal role of tour operators in this transformation. They can train property owners on international guest expectations, enhance online presence and digital marketing, and build strategic partnerships to showcase these unique accommodations. Additionally, collaborating with professional hotel operators can elevate service quality and facilities to international standards. Such partnerships enable operators to enter the experiential tourism market, diversify portfolios, strengthen brand positioning, utilize operational expertise, and provide farm villa owners access to a broader client base.
By leveraging professional partnerships and the distinctive appeal of farm villas, owners can create compelling experiences that resonate with international tourists, Siddiqui noted.
Regarding the hotel apartment market, Siddiqui observed that both domestic and international guests expect consistent service standards, well-maintained facilities, and professional management irrespective of location. “It is crucial for hotel apartments to uphold defined standards and implement strong quality control. Inconsistent housekeeping, outdated furnishings, absence of operating procedures, and insufficient staff training can negatively affect the guest experience and reduce repeat business,” he explained.
He further remarked that demand for hotel apartments remains strong, particularly among business travelers on extended stays, families, and cost-conscious visitors seeking space and flexibility. The segment’s outlook remains stable, supported by steady demand drivers. However, success hinges on the industry’s ability to consistently deliver quality experiences that meet evolving guest expectations, ensuring long-term competitiveness and guest loyalty.
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The emerging potential of Oman’s farm villas to attract international experiential tourists presents a strategic opportunity for entrepreneurs to upgrade facilities and digital capabilities, aligning with global hospitality standards. By fostering professional partnerships and enhancing online presence, investors can tap into a niche market that values authenticity combined with quality service, mitigating risks of inconsistent guest experiences. For the hotel apartment sector, maintaining robust quality control and consistent service is crucial to retain business travelers and families, ensuring long-term competitiveness amid stable demand.
