OMRAN and TUI have signed an agreement on the development of hotel infrastructure in Dhofar
Oman Tourism Development (OMRAN) has entered into a strategic agreement with the TUI Group to build five new hotels in the Dhofar region. This project will be an important step in strengthening Dhofar's position as a premium coastal destination and expanding the Sultanate's hotel infrastructure.
Expanding Dhofar's tourism potential
The complex will include both beach resorts and unique hotels catering to international and regional guests. The project is expected to be completed by the winter season of 2028. The new project will meet the growing demand for accommodation and improve the quality of the tourist experience.
Impact on the economy and tourism
The development of the hotel complex will bring:
- Increase in hotel capacity – a wider range of accommodation options for tourists and guests planning a long stay.
- Stimulation of regional tourism – Dhofar becomes a year-round coastal destination with modern facilities.
- Creating opportunities – new jobs and investment in the local economy.
Oman Air increases the frequency of flights to Moscow in the winter schedule
We are pleased to announce that starting from October 2025, Oman Air will gradually increase the number of flights to Moscow:
- From October 2, 2025, there will be 4 flights per week: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday.
- From October 26, 2025, there will be 5 flights per week: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday.
- From December 1, 2025, to March 29, 2026, flights will be operated daily.
During the New Year holidays, from December 25, 2025, to January 15, 2026, additional flights are available on Thursdays and Sundays.
IRONMAN & Experience Oman: sports and tourism without borders
Oman has taken an important step in the development of sports tourism by announcing a partnership with the IRONMAN Global Series.
- In December 2026, Muscat will host the first full-distance IRONMAN race in the Middle East.
- The IRONMAN 70.3 Muscat competition has been designated as the 2026 Middle East Championship, propelling Oman to a new stage in global sports.
This initiative is aimed not only at attracting athletes, but also at a new category of tourists who are passionate about a healthy lifestyle, outdoor activities, and adventures.
Harif 2025: More than 1 million guests
The Harif season in Dhofar has confirmed its status as one of the region's largest tourist events, attracting 1,027,000 visitors (+2% compared to last year).
- More than 734,000 citizens of the Sultanate of Oman (+71.5%) chose Dhofar for their vacations.
- Guests from the Gulf countries accounted for 179,000 visitors, while those from other countries numbered 114,000.
These figures demonstrate a steady increase in interest in the region and present opportunities for tour operators and agencies.
What does this mean for our partners?
- Focus on family and luxury segments
The Harif season demonstrates a high interest of family tourists in visiting Dhofar. This opens up opportunities for creating premium and family packages that include accommodation in luxury hotels, nature excursions, and cultural activities for the whole family. - Unique experiences
In addition to the picturesque green landscapes, tourists are attracted by the culture, heritage, and outdoor activities. Customized itineraries that combine eco-tours, historical sites, and local cuisine help agencies stand out in the market. - Using social media Harif’s breathtaking landscapes are perfect for promotion in the digital environment. Visual stories and user-generated content help agencies reach out to younger audiences and inspire them to travel.
New Season of the Royal Opera House of Muscat 2025/2026
The Royal Opera House of Muscat has announced the start of its new 2025/2026 season, which offers a dynamic blend of world-class art, cultural events and community outreach.
Highlights of the season
- The 2025/2026 season features a wide range of performances:
Opera: Sinbad: The Arabian Sailor (October), Tosca (January), Don Pasquale (April). - Arabic music: concerts by Diana Haddad, Rabeh Saker, Abir Nehme, and a festive event celebrating Women's Day in Oman.
- Symphonic and classical music: the Hungarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Beethoven's Ninth Symphony/Liszt, and the Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra's New Year's Eve concert.
- Ballet and dance: Coppélia, Estampas Flamencas, and other captivating performances.
- World Music and Jazz: Janoska Orchestra and Emmaline & Jazz Ensemble.
- Special shows: The Lion King, Cinderella on Ice, Military Music: Oman and the World, Folk Music Festival.
- Exhibitions and educational initiatives: "The Rhythm of Life: The Wealth and Diversity of Omani Art" and more.
Michelin Stars in Salalah: Al Baleed by Anantara's Gastronomic Festival is Back!
Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara announces the return of the Al Baleed Gastronomy Festival, which will take place throughout November 2025. The festival brings together the resort's chefs and international gastronomes, and is supported by Experience Oman, the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Tourism, the Dhofar Municipality, and the Amouage brand.
This year, guests can expect a unique culinary experience that combines Oman's local traditions with global gastronomic trends. Among the invited chefs are Jacob Jan Burma from the Netherlands and Christian Jürgens from Germany, both three-star Michelin chefs and renowned high-end experts with international awards.
Special attention is given to the Frankincense Experience, a journey from farm to spa and table that includes a farm tour, an incense-based spa treatment, and a meal made with fresh, local ingredients.
The festival is an opportunity to showcase the rich culinary culture of Oman to Russian tourists, combining luxury, gastronomy, and authentic local experiences.
More about Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara
Mandarin Oriental in Muscat offers special conditions for group arrivals
We would like to inform you about the current special offer at the Mandarin Oriental Muscat Hotel for group bookings. During the winter season, guests can enjoy exclusive accommodation conditions with additional benefits.
These benefits include additional free nights, room upgrades, discounts on food and spa services, and special group account terms.
The offer is valid for bookings made until the end of October 2025 and applies to stays from October 1, 2025 to December 23, 2026 (excluding public holidays).
Don't miss the opportunity to offer your customers the best conditions!
