Interview with Rania Khodr, Sultanate of Oman Tourist Office

Has the "Arab Spring" been an opportunity for tourism in Oman?

Rania Khodr - Of course, a little. But postponements have been limited for reasons of cost, if only those of air travel: the Sultanate of Oman is not in North Africa! On the other hand, we have had to deal with cancellations, as some people have confused the situation with that in Tunisia or Egypt...

Musandam is gradually opening up to visitors? What does its future hold for the sultanate?

R. K. - The region is set to grow, as it fits perfectly into the Sultanate's offering, which draws on the country's diversity: its coastline, its mountains, the desert, the climatic contrast between the Batinah plain in the north and the monsoon-ridden Dhofar in the south. In this context, Musandam also offers something different: astonishing fjord landscapes that provide a sheltered setting for sporting activities such as sea kayaking and diving.

What are the plans for Musandam?

R. K. - Projects initiated several years ago are beginning to see the light of day. On the west coast, this is the case of the Khasab Hotel, a three-star hotel with 80 rooms and 30 suites currently under construction. It is due to open at the end of 2013. As for the very exclusive Six Senses in Zighy Bay, it is already open. Set on a superb beach, its concept is inspired by fishing villages with their sandy lanes. It offers 82 villas, all reminiscent of traditional housing and each with its own private pool. Guests can cycle around the estate and, given its location, it can be reached by 4×4, boat or... paraglider. It's perfect for incentives for up to 40 participants.

This year, the tourist office celebrates its tenth anniversary in France. What are the results?

R. K. - In 2002, we started from scratch and, overall, we have increased our results tenfold. 27,000 French people visited Oman last year, compared with 2,000 in 2002. And more than a hundred TOs are scheduling us today, compared with just 12 at the time...

What are the country's plans for business tourism?

R. K. - There are several, but the most important is the construction of the Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre in Muscat. The project, located in a 170-hectare park, will include a 23,000 m2 exhibition space, a 3,000-seat auditorium and four hotels. It is scheduled to open at the end of 2016.