MUSCAT, 15 June 2004 — The tourism sector in Oman recently witnessed well-studied growth in accordance with precise plans and prudent measures.

The aim has been the building of a strong and sound infrastructure for the sector to provide it with a platform for takeoff, especially since the Sultanate has outstanding tourism potentials.

Oman could attract large numbers of tourists from around the world interested in spending unforgettable moments amid unspoiled natural scenes and top-class services.

Great care and attention have been shown, from all levels, with the aim of paving the way for the tourist train to proceed smoothly.

Strong shoulders and wise brains have been building, brick by brick, the infrastructure for tourism, such as restaurants, hotels, rest houses, tourist companies, with most modern, safe and internationally accepted standards for tourist transportation.

Naturally, tourists who visit Oman are all praise for the complete care and excellent services they receive.

Also, tourism promotion has received a tremendous boost, over years, from the Sultanate’s participation in international tourism fairs and carnivals.

Such efforts highlighted the tourism potentials of the Sultanate with the distribution of pamphlets throughout the world in different languages in a bid to inform the seven continents about the cultural, social and natural feast that Oman holds out for them.

And these rich resources of the Sultanate could win it a pride of place on the list of world’s important tourist destinations.

Last Wednesday witnessed an important event in Oman’s tourism development process when Sultan Qaboos issued a royal decree establishing a ministry for tourism and appointing a minister for it.

This is a qualitative leap forward for tourism in Oman and a turning point, giving a strong boost for this sector.

The decree emphasizes the special attention the sector has been given from all levels under the directives of Sultan Qaboos.

Establishing a ministry for tourism in itself means a lot. The step would take the sector to the forefront as the key option for finding new sources for national income, attracting more tourists toward the scenic spots of the Sultanate.

This is proof of the attention given to tourism and the great expectations attached to the sector.

Tremendous hopes and great expectations are pinned on the new ministry.

Tourism Minister Rajiha bint Abdul Amir would, no doubt, undertake all possible efforts, motivated by the trust reposed in her by Sultan Qaboos.

Thus, giving would have no limits and teamwork is expected from all members of this vital sector so that it would garner enviable achievements.

The establishment of a new ministry for tourism has been met with enthusiastic response, from within Oman and outside.

All quarters have welcomed the new initiative and tourism offices in the Sultanate were quick to inform their agents abroad about this significant development.

With Khareef Festival in Salalah round the corner, no doubt there will be a flow of tourists to Oman.