New Tourism Body Formed in Oman: How It Aims to Boost Job Growth and Investment Opportunities
MUSCAT, JULY 15 – One of the primary objectives of the newly formed Oman Tourism Association is to enhance employment opportunities within the country’s tourism sector.
In a recent press conference, Awadh Burham Ba Omar, Chairman of the first tourism association in Oman, emphasized that increasing local employment rates is a key focus. “We aim to enhance professionalism and significantly boost job opportunities within the sector,” he stated.
Ba Omar elaborated that the tourism industry generates substantial local value from investments and possesses the potential to absorb a significant number of job seekers. He expressed hopes for robust collaborations among the association, investment bodies, professionals, and relevant governmental entities, including the Ministry of Tourism.
Despite the abundance of employment prospects, Ba Omar acknowledged challenges, particularly in aligning qualifications with market demands. “While there are indeed opportunities available, the challenge is meeting the qualifications required for these positions, be they academic, professional, or experiential. To unlock the sector’s full potential, well-structured training programs are essential,” he explained.
He proposed that addressing gaps in job classifications in accordance with global trends is crucial. “This is a critical role for the association. Currently, there is a significant disparity in how roles are categorized and how their professional requirements align with international standards. The tourism industry is highly competitive globally. To develop a local tourism sector, we must recognize the dynamics of global competition; we are participating in an international marketplace that demands recognition of global benchmarks,” he asserted.
To support this vision, the association is focused on developing clear frameworks. “The journey begins by adopting and implementing these standards—both in professional practices and training programs. This will enable young Omanis to navigate their career paths smoothly, access genuine growth opportunities, and advance into leadership roles within the sector. Our goal is to create a well-structured roadmap into the tourism industry so that even students can plan their future careers starting from the classroom,” Ba Omar concluded.
Founded in December 2024, the Oman Tourism Association is the first civil society organization dedicated to the tourism sector, officially commencing operations on July 1, 2025. Officials indicate that the association seeks to bridge the gap between government authorities and stakeholders in the industry, including investors and professionals.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
The establishment of the Oman Tourism Association signals a pivotal shift in the tourism sector, aiming to boost local employment while fostering professional development. This presents significant opportunities for businesses—particularly in training and investment—yet risks remain if local talent fails to meet evolving global standards. Smart investors should prioritize partnerships with this association to align their strategies with the sector’s roadmap and capitalize on emerging job markets.
