GCC Visa Expected to Boost Hotel Industry in Oman

Oman is poised to gain major benefits from the upcoming GCC Grand Tours Visa, an initiative designed to simplify travel between Gulf Cooperation Council member states. The pilot phase of the unified visa is expected to launch before the end of the year.

Ali Siddiqui, Research Manager at Cavendish Maxwell, said Oman’s hospitality market stands to make significant progress once the visa takes effect. He highlighted the Oman-UAE Hafeet Rail as a crucial project that will improve travel between the two countries. 

According to Siddiqui, the combination of improved cross-border connectivity and the new visa framework could result in higher hotel occupancy, longer visitor stays, and greater spending. Current data shows that tourists in Oman typically stay between five and six nights. Simplifying travel could lead to more frequent short trips and last-minute travel plans across the region.

The unified visa is expected to attract both international visitors and GCC residents by allowing travel to multiple Gulf countries without requiring separate entry permits for each country. Industry analysts believe this policy could drive a surge in intra-regional tourism.

Cavendish Maxwell’s latest figures indicate that Oman plans to add 9,600 hotel rooms by 2030, a move that would expand its current capacity of 36,000 rooms by more than 25%. This development reflects investor confidence and supports the government’s long-term tourism strategy. Oman also aims to draw more than six million annual visitors by 2030 and increase that figure to 11 million by 2040.

Siddiqui noted that the majority of ongoing projects fall within the 3-star to 5-star range, which continues to outperform other segments in occupancy levels. Development plans also include mid-range hotels and serviced apartments, which are popular among corporate guests and families seeking extended stays with self-catering facilities.

He added that maintaining consistent quality across hotel apartments will be vital. Poor housekeeping, outdated furnishings, weak operational systems, or untrained staff could reduce repeat business and negatively impact guest satisfaction.

Demand for serviced apartments remains stable, supported by business travelers and long-stay guests who prefer flexible lodging options.