Oman tourism sector’s GDP contribution rises to 2.9% in Q1 2026

Oman's tourism sector demonstrated robust growth in the first quarter of 2026, boosting its contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP) and reinforcing its role in the nation's economic diversification strategy. The sector's share of GDP at current prices climbed to 2.9% by the end of the quarter, an increase from 2.6% recorded during the same period in 2025, according to data from the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI).

Direct tourism GDP saw a significant rise of 6.5%, reaching OMR293.8 million. Total tourism output amounted to OMR610.4 million, marking a 9.7% increase. The sector's total direct gross value added also grew by 6.6% to OMR286.4 million. This expansion was driven by growth across various tourism-related activities, with accommodation services accounting for the largest share of direct tourism value added at 24.8%, followed by travel agency and reservation services (19.7%), transport services (18.7%), and restaurant services (18.3%).

At constant prices, direct tourism GDP grew by 2.8% to OMR279.9 million, compared to OMR272.3 million in the prior year's first quarter. The sector's contribution to GDP remained steady at 2.9%, indicating sustained real growth. This upward trend continues a pattern observed in recent years, with the sector's GDP contribution rising from 1.6% in 2020-2021 to 2.9% by early 2026.

These positive results align with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040, which aims to increase tourism's contribution to GDP to 3.5% by 2030 and 5.3% by 2040. This initiative is part of Oman's broader efforts to diversify income sources and enhance the role of high-value-added sectors in achieving sustainable growth. The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism is actively working to develop tourism services, improve visitor experiences, and foster collaboration between public and private sectors to further stimulate tourism spending and extend visitor stays.