Tourism In Oman Research Articles

Exploring the Possibilities of Omani Landscapes as Venues for International Fashion Events

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to analyse the potential of promoting international fashion events in Oman and to analyse how the use of Omani landscapes as venues can encourage international fashion events. Design/methodology/approach: The study used a mixed-method approach to gather data. Interview with seven experts from the tourism and fashion background was conducted to get their views on the possibility of Oman’s Natural Landscape as an International Fashion venue. Additionally, an online survey was used to collect the data from the youth aged between 18 and 41, to get their perspective. The participants were generally students and academics related to fashion education. Non-probability purposive sampling technique was used in the study. Findings: The overall results show that although Oman’s unique landscape has the potential to host international fashion events, there is still a lack of knowledge on the economic significance of the fashion industry as a whole and international fashion events in particular. Additionally, it was found that there is a need for Government attention and planning to promote and develop interest in international fashion events. Research limitations/implications: This study proved that Oman can expand its target market for tourism through hosting international fashion events. Oman is promoted as a niche destination rich in culture and landscape and fashion-induced tourism could be Oman’s future trend. Social Implications: This study brought out the anticipated challenges and opportunities to support planning and bidding for international fashion events, and with proper research and planning it could be overcome but also leave a mark in standards of tourism and fashion. Originality / Value: Since this is a relatively new concept, this study would be the blueprint for different stakeholders who share an interest in showcasing the Sultanate as a fashion tourism destination. Keywords: Omani Landscapes, Fashion Tourism, Event Management, International Fashion Events, Tourism in Oman.

The Fallout of the Pandemic: An Investigation of Oman Tourist Destination Brand Equity

Oman is in the process of diversifying its economy by identifying other sectors to lessen dependency on petroleum products. Many such sectors are identified as tourism, manufacturing, fisheries, mining, transportation, and logistics. Coronavirus pandemic has a significant impact on the global economy. As countries around the globe begin to emerge from the pandemic, what will be the new normal for tourism? This new normal is already beginning to affect tourism sector in Sultanate of Oman. The present study explores how the fallout of the pandemic will affect destination brand equity from a tourist perspective. However, most of the previous studies that deal with the similar issues, do not include effective ways to develop Oman tourism destination as a brand. The results reveal that destination Oman significantly satisfies all dimensions of brand equity, i.e., brand awareness, perceived quality, brand association, and brand loyalty. The perceived risk dimension is also extracted in the study to recognize the impact of pandemic crises.

Unlocking Potential: The Integrative Role of Archaeological Records in Oman's Archaeological Tourism Sustainability

Purpose: This paper aims to assess the current utilization of archaeological records in the management of archaeological tourism in the Sultanate of Oman.
 
 Implications of research: It investigates how these records synergistically contribute to the sustainability of archaeological tourism and identifies potential benefits from their integration into the tourism planning process.
 
 Method: Employing a descriptive analytical approach, this exploratory study examines the relationship between archaeological records and archaeological tourism in Oman, utilizing both contemporary and historical data from various sources, including existing archaeological records and input from heritage and tourism stakeholders.
 
 Findings: Findings reveal that Omani archaeological tourism is in its nascent stages, with government initiatives striving to align the archaeology and tourism sectors. The study underscores the significance of archaeological records in optimizing tourism through enhanced planning, criteria, and information exchange. It emphasizes their potential to strengthen collaboration between archaeological resource management and tourism in Oman.
 
 Results and conclusion: Key recommendations include prioritizing improved dialogue, information exchange, stakeholder collaboration, shared record design, accessibility, revenue allocation, and comprehensive training. These measures aim to forge a harmonious connection between archaeology and tourism, fostering mutual benefit and sustainable heritage preservation.

Perceptions and Attitudes of Domestic Tourists toward Ecotourism

Although authorities are aware of the economic benefits of ecotourism, domestic tourism in Oman often fails to prioritise environmentally conscious visits to natural areas that incorporate observation and education. Without greater awareness, the preservation of these destinations will remain a mere aspiration. This study aimed to collect data on the perceptions and attitudes of local tourists towards ecotourism in Oman, focusing on three popular nature destinations from different governorates. To address the research problem, a mixed approach, along with the descriptive correlational design, was used. Over a month-long survey, primary data was collected from fifty respondents, revealing an overwhelmingly positive attitude towards ecotourism in Oman. The potential for ecotourism in the country was rated as ‘High,' reflecting optimism about the future of the tourism sector. However, respondents also acknowledged that ecotourism can have a ‘High’ detrimental impact on the ecosystem. Economic and sociocultural implications were considered to be of ‘Very High’ importance. The positive perceptions and attitudes towards ecotourism in Oman were mainly driven by the economic and sociocultural benefits it offers. The results of this study indicate a promising outlook for ecotourism in Oman, as long as sustainable regulations are in place. Planning is crucial for every aspect of ecotourism, particularly regarding management, operation, and development. All goals related to preservation and conservation, as well as marketing and promotion, must be effectively communicated among stakeholders. The way in which Omani visitors perceive ecotourism is heavily influenced by economic considerations. Although ecotourism is viewed positively for its financial advantages for the nation and communities, concerns remain regarding the negative impacts of tourism development on the environment. It is therefore essential to focus on promoting sustainable growth in these areas without compromising the environment.

Smart, hybrid and context-aware POI mobile recommender system in tourism in Oman

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to identify the knowledge gap and future opportunities for developing mobile recommender system in tourism sector that lead to comfortable, targeted and attractive tourism. A recommender system improves the traditional classification algorithms and has incorporated many advanced machine learning algorithms.Design/methodology/approachDesign of this application followed a smart, hybrid and context-aware recommender system, which includes various recommender systems. With the recommender system's help, useful management for time and budget is obtained for tourists, since they usually have financial and time constraints for selecting the point of interests (POIs) and so more purposeful trip planned with decreased traffic and air pollution.FindingsThe finding of this research showed that the inclusion of additional information about the item, user, circumstances, objects or conditions and the environment could significantly impact recommendation quality and information and communications technology has become one part of the tourism value chain.Practical implicationsThe application consists of (1) registration: with/without social media accounts, (2) user information: country, gender, age and his/her specific interests, (3) context data: available time, alert, price, spend time, weather, location, transportation.Social implicationsThe study’s social implications include connecting the app and registration through social media to a more social relationship, with its textual reviews, or user review as user-generated content for increasing accuracy.Originality/valueThe originality of this research work lies on introducing a new content- and knowledge-based algorithm for POI recommendations. An “Alert” context emphasizing on safety, supplies and essential infrastructure is considered as a novel context for this application.

Tourism versus Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Tourism – an element of economic growth of metropolitan cities, entrepreneurs

Oman's economy highly depends on oil revenue since it accounts for more than half of all its export incomes. Other sectors like fishery and agriculture are some of other major sources of income that are perceived to have some influence on minimizing the economic gaps of the population while contributing constructively to the country’s GDP. Oman being strategically and geographically located; tourism is thus viewed as a major contributor to the economy and its sustainability. The reason behind this is the fact that Oman possesses great tourism potential in terms of its culture, climate, and natural environment. This research elucidated the constructive economic effects of tourism in Oman that can generate revenues and maintain sustainable economic growth, which in turn can help the country achieve its SDGs.

Tourism versus Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Tourism – An Element of Economic Growth of Metropolitan Cities, Entrepreneurs

Oman's economy highly depends on oil revenue since it accounts for more than half of all its export incomes. Other sectors like fishery and agriculture are some of the other major sources of income that are perceived to have some influence on minimizing the economic gaps of the population while contributing constructively to the country's GDP. Oman being strategically and geographically located gives it a better chance to add to the sources of its revenues. Tourism is hence seen as a key contributor to the economy and its sustainability. The reason behind this is the fact that Oman possesses great tourism potential in terms of its culture, climate, and natural environment. Proper understanding of the relationship that exists between the contribution from tourism and the SDGs is important in the development of the sector to improve development within the area. This research elucidated the constructive economic effects of tourism in Oman that can generate revenues and maintain sustainable economic growth, which in turn can help the country achieve its SDGs.

Identifying and Prioritizing Ways to Improve Oman’s Tourism Sector in the Corona Period

Abstract Objectives: To identify the economic, social, and geopolitical impacts of the Corona pandemic on the country’s tourism industry; to identify ways to enhance domestic tourism so as to increase income in the Oman’s tourism industry which has since been declining; to identify specific travel destinations and associated recovery plans; and to suggest recommendations on the best approaches to improving the Oman tourism sector. Methodology: The research involved collection of primary data using interviews where opinions and perceptions of Omani tourism industry experts were collected regarding economic, social, and geopolitical impacts of the Corona pandemic on the country’s tourism industry; the rationale of lifting travel restrictions and the ways of increasing traveller confidence amidst the uncertainties and fears associated with Covid-19 in Oman; ways to enhance domestic tourism so as to increase income in the Oman’s tourism industry which has since been declining; and recommendations on the best approaches to improving the Oman tourism sector. Findings: The main impacts of coronavirus on Omani tourism industry include loss of revenue and reduction in hotel and occupancy rate. These effects resulted into massive job losses, unpaid leave and pay cuts amongst employees in the country’s tourism industry. The measures to be taken to enhance recovery of the tourism industry were categorized into two: government measures and business measures. Value added: With the multiple adverse effects of the coronavirus pandemic on the tourism sector, this study will help in establishing the potential measures of fostering the positive outcomes in the sector. Recommendations: Setting aside COVID-19 recovery financial kitty; Increasing the frequency of marketing the country as the preferred and the best tourist destination in the world in both local and international media; Public-private partnerships; and encouraging domestic tourism by offering discounts and incentives for the locals enjoying the country’s tourism facilities. Offering discounted rates and fees; adopting a flexible booking policy; cancelling or waiving all the fees and fines that were charged on customers who cancelled or amended their bookings as result of COVID-19 pandemic; offering attractive discounts to clients who want to re-book their previous cancelled bookings without conditions; and diversification of operations.

The Impact and Effectiveness of E-Learning on Teaching and Learning

Purpose – This paper presents research findings on the effectiveness and impact of E-Learning to the teaching and learning process of the Undergraduate Program (UGP) and General Foundation Program (GFP) at Oman Tourism College in Muscat, Sultanate of Oman. Method – Teacher and student experience on E-Learning were evaluated by utilizing mixed methodology through online survey. Five criteria of effectiveness were established and used to assess E-Learning. The study determined the consensus measure and target consensus measure of teachers and students on the effectiveness of E-Learning employing the five factors. The study also examined whether students and teachers differ in their perceptions on E-Learning. The effects of E-Learning on teaching methodology and learning styles were also investigated. Results – Teachers and students appeared to be in agreement on their perceptions on E-learning and provided higher ratings on E-Learning based on the five criteria of effectiveness. E-Learning was viewed favorably by teachers and students as an effective tool to enhance the delivery of instruction and develop knowledge acquisition skills through transfer of learning. Conclusion –E-Learning can be considered as one of the best strategies to be adopted for teaching and learning. The researchers assert that the provision of education can no longer be restricted within a single campus but can be extended throughout the country through distance learning and integration of E-Learning solutions. Recommendation – It is highly recommended that further study can be conducted to include other Higher Education Institutions in Oman in order to form a more concrete knowledge-based plan in creating E-Learning strategies. Practical Implication – E-Learning could potentially shape the future of education by advancing the traditional classroom setting into the web. There is a need for the entire academic community to ensure that the factors of e-learning effectiveness are delivered adequately and the utilization of e-learning must be evaluated regularly.

Washback in Language Testing: An Exploration with a Focus on a Specific EFL Context in Oman

The notion of washback has been a widespread topic in language teaching and testing literature and has been discussed and looked at from various perspectives. The significance of the topic emerges from the fact that the consequences of tests greatly determine or shape the nature of language teaching, learning, and testing. 
 
 This paper aims to explore the notion of washback based on current perspectives in the literature and the needs of a specific teaching setting, which is the language Program at Oman Tourism College (OTC). The Literature Review section reviews the literature trying to shed light on the notion of washback as a core construct in language teaching and learning. The second section will discuss the influences of washback in ELT with a special reference to a teaching context. Finally, some useful implications are drawn to come up with recommendations for increasing the positive washback and reducing the negatively of it.

DETERMINANTS OF CAPITAL STRUCTURE: AN EMPIRICAL EVALUATION OF OMAN’S TOURISM COMPANIES

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to investigate the determinants of the capital structure of tourism companies in Oman. This study uses the trade-off theory and pecking order theory to postulate hypotheses related to determinants of capital structure. Methodology: In line with extant literature, size, liquidity, tangibility, growth opportunities, and risk are used as the determinants of the capital structure. The sample in this study includes nine listed tourism companies for the period 2007 to 2016, which aggregates to 90 firm-year observations. Main findings: The results show that the capital structure of tourism companies is influenced by size, growth, and risk. The trade-off theory and pecking order theory are useful for partially explaining the leverage decisions of Oman's tourism companies. Implications: The empirical findings of this research imply that tourism companies' corporate managers can make optimal capital structure decisions based on determinants. Novelty: To the best of the author's knowledge, this study is a first for examining the determinants of capital structure for Oman's tourism companies using data over ten years. It lends support to the determinants identified in prior literature for developed and developing countries.

Halal tourism: guidelines for Oman

Halal tourism caters to the travel needs of Muslim tourists seeking out a family friendly environment. As per the Global Muslim Travel Index 2019, Islamic nations like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Turkey lead the halal tourism industry, while nations like Singapore, United Kingdom, Australia, etc. are also entering into halal tourism industry. Oman having all the elements of making a top destination for halal tourism is on its way out of the top rankings. It is imperative to identify the reasons behind Oman's decline in the field of halal tourism and to suggest useful guidelines for encouraging halal tourism in Oman. This is an exploratory study based on secondary sources like the available research and reports on halal tourism. A comparison between Oman, Qatar and Singapore is done based on ACES model of Mastercard Crescent-rating and the findings have been used to draw useful suggestions for improving halal tourism in Oman.

Medical Tourism in Oman

Medical Tourism in Oman

DETERMINANTS OF CAPITAL STRUCTURE: AN EMPIRICAL EVALUATION OF OMAN’S TOURISM COMPANIES

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to investigate the determinants of the capital structure of tourism companies in Oman. This study uses the trade-off theory and pecking order theory to postulate hypotheses related to determinants of capital structure.
 Methodology: In line with extant literature, size, liquidity, tangibility, growth opportunities, and risk are used as the determinants of the capital structure. The sample in this study includes nine listed tourism companies for the period 2007 to 2016, which aggregates to 90 firm-year observations.
 Main findings: The results show that the capital structure of tourism companies is influenced by size, growth, and risk. The trade-off theory and pecking order theory are useful for partially explaining the leverage decisions of Oman's tourism companies.
 Implications: The empirical findings of this research imply that tourism companies' corporate managers can make optimal capital structure decisions based on determinants.
 Novelty: To the best of the author's knowledge, this study is a first for examining the determinants of capital structure for Oman's tourism companies using data over ten years. It lends support to the determinants identified in prior literature for developed and developing countries.

Perceptions of Tourism sector campaigns- Hidden Veracities

The Ministry of Tourism is the government agency responsible for the tourism sector in the Sultanate of Oman. The main mission of the Ministry of Tourism is to promote Oman’s tourism sector regionally and globally by providing all the tourist information about its amazing locations and the heritage of the original Arabs. Natural tourist sites in Oman are mainly a source of attraction to tourists from around the world. This research aims to look at the tourism sector in Oman and to identify the strategies and techniques used by the Sultanate to promote tourism in Oman. We have collected data using primary sources through interviews with relevant authorities at the Ministry of Tourism, which have the authority to develop tourism sector in Oman. Moreover, we have collected information from tourist and various other sources such as websites, magazines, newspapers etc. One of the main finding of this study is that many respondents believes now-a –days tourism sector provides job opportunities to Omanis and moreover the tourism development is part of diversification strategy of Oman to enhance the income of the country.

Sea turtles tourism in Oman: Current status and future prospects

This paper provides an overview of the current status and future potentials of nature-based tourism in the Sultanate of Oman with particular focus on sea turtles at Ras Al Hadd. The paper uses obje...

Utilizing Social Media to Encourage Domestic Tourism in Oman

Nowadays people use social media in order to create, share or exchange information, pictures or videos in virtual communities and networks. Furthermore, followers can ‘like’, ‘share’ and ‘comment’ on other people’s content or posts. Obviously, social media sites have an influence on the decision-making process, especially in the tourism sector, which has economic benefits for the country; people utilize social media channels in tourism promotional activities in order to encourage and promote domestic tourism. Hence, this Study aims to investigate how to use social media technology in order to encourage and improve domestic tourism in Oman. Data were collected using a self-administrated questionnaire from individuals who are currently using social media sites and have an interest in domestic tourism in Oman. There are three main findings: 1) there are a large number of people who use social media technology to obtain information about different attractive places they wish to visit in Oman, 2) the majority of the respondents claim that negative experiences posted on social media about a particular destination influence their travel decisions, and 3) many of the respondents indicate that the Ministry of Tourism in Oman should utilize more social media tools such as Instagram, Twitter, etc. in order to encourage domestic tourism. This research has implications not only to the Ministry of Tourism to promote domestic tourism in Oman, but also to Omani people and tourists from other countries who visit or like to visit Oman.

Gauging The Hospitality Industry’s Awareness and Commitment to Sustainability Practices: The Case of the Hospitality Industry in Muscat

Oman is an emerging destination for green tourism, its slogan “beauty has an address”, illuminates its attempt to brand itself as a destination for unique, cultural and environmental attractions. Oman’s heritage is promoted along-side its natural beauty. As the hospitality sector in the capital city “Muscat” plans to expand and scale up its demographic to attract more high-end tourists as well as the overall volume of tourists it welcomes, this study aims (1) to explore to what degree hotels in the capital city “Muscat” recognizes the environmental impacts of their economic choices, (2) to determine which of the numerous environmental considerations are most widely adopted, and finally, (3) to highlight some perspectives from policy makers and major tourism stakeholders in Oman about current sustainability trends and future goals regarding environmental management. While the Sultanate has conducted a number of government studies of general tourism statistics, more effort is being exerted to ambitiously bring international tourists ‘attention to visit Oman. Given the paucity of literature on tourism in Oman, and Omani government’s commitment to a sustainable path of development, this study seeks to supplement the existing work on “green” and “environmentally conscious” tourism by focusing on this country of great and ambitious sustainable tourism development plans with applications on its capital city “Muscat” growing hospitality industry.

Gauging The Hospitality Industry’s Awareness and Commitment to Sustainability Practices: The Case of the Hospitality Industry in Muscat

Oman is an emerging destination for green tourism, its slogan “beauty has an address”, illuminates its attempt to brand itself as a destination for unique, cultural and environmental attractions. Oman’s heritage is promoted along-side its natural beauty. As the hospitality sector in the capital city “Muscat” plans to expand and scale up its demographic to attract more high-end tourists as well as the overall volume of tourists it welcomes, this study aims (1) to explore to what degree hotels in the capital city “Muscat” recognizes the environmental impacts of their economic choices, (2) to determine which of the numerous environmental considerations are most widely adopted, and finally, (3) to highlight some perspectives from policy makers and major tourism stakeholders in Oman about current sustainability trends and future goals regarding environmental management. While the Sultanate has conducted a number of government studies of general tourism statistics, more effort is being exerted to ambitiously bring international tourists ‘attention to visit Oman. Given the paucity of literature on tourism in Oman, and Omani government’s commitment to a sustainable path of development, this study seeks to supplement the existing work on “green” and “environmentally conscious” tourism by focusing on this country of great and ambitious sustainable tourism development plans with applications on its capital city “Muscat” growing hospitality industry.

Cruising Market in Oman: Current Trends and Future Perspectives

Cruising Market in Oman: Current Trends and Future Perspectives Tamer Mohamed Atef, Ph.D; Masooma Al-Balushi, Ph.D Abstract The worldwide cruise industry has expanded over the past decades.For many countries, it has become a significant source of income. Cruising is considered as a holiday that gives a “flavour” of each country, albeit a brief one, so if interested, the country or region could be visited another time for longer period.Cruising companies have succeed in attracting more customer segments by offering a wide range of durations, itineraries, and prices. Prices vary according to the time of year, itinerary and level of luxury. The 1990s witnessed the beginnings of cruising to Oman’s three main ports: Salalah Port in Dhofar governorate, Sultan Qaboos Port in the capital, Muscat, and Khasab Port in Musandam Peninsula.This study aims to explore the Omani cruising market in relation to worldwide cruise industry dynamics. To achieve the aim of the study two objectives were identified:To portray the worldwide cruise line industry, To assess the status of cruise tourism in Oman. Disputes about the economic benefits of cruising have been raised; Who is getting the benefit? Is it the destination ports or the locals? Cruise tourists spend less money and time in Oman than other tourists, but the assumption that a short, professionally handled experience in Oman would bring them back for longer visits cannot be underestimated. As a cruising destination, Oman has great potential for growth and development in the future. Full Text: PDF DOI: 10.15640/jthm.v5n1a1