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 Muscat has established itself as one of the fastest-growing MICE hotspots in the Middle East, attracting business conferences, exhibitions, corporate meetings and incentive tourism groups. The Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC) has strengthened Muscat’s position as a destination for international conferences and exhibitions. The Omani capital also benefits from international air links, a developing hospitality sector and dedicated support for MICE visitors. Beyond business, Muscat offers delegates cultural experiences, coastal scenery, mountains, heritage sites and outdoor activities that can complement a conference programme.

World-class venues and modern event infrastructure

“In Oman, the success of the business events industry relies on close collaboration between international and local associations… Offering them the chance to experience the destination firsthand and meet key stakeholders is essential.” (Said Al Shanfari, CEO, OCEC, Conference & Meetings World)

Source: https://www.c-mw.net/oman-to-host-exclusive-icca-association-day-in-december-2025 

OCEC is Muscat’s main business-events hub. OCEC provides purpose-built facilities for conferences, exhibitions, corporate meetings and large-scale events. It includes a 3,200-seat auditorium, multiple exhibition halls and more than 55 meeting-space options which cater for both small corporate meetings and large international conferences. Muscat also boasts major hotels with conference and meeting facilities. This combination of dedicated convention facilities and high-end hotels provides event planners with several formats to choose from.

Easy access, strong connectivity and convenience for business travel

“COMEX 2025 has been a powerful platform to showcase how technology can transform the tourism experience. These partnerships reflect our vision to build a connected, accessible, and digitally empowered travel ecosystem that brings Oman’s rich offerings closer to the world. We are deeply committed to empowering local tourism providers through scaled digital distribution, working closely with SMEs and travel tech companies across Oman.” (Shabib al Maamari, MD, Visit Oman, Muscat Daily)

Source: https://www.muscatdaily.com/2025/09/23/visit-oman-celebrates-strategic-local-partnerships-at-comex-global-technology-show-2025 

Muscat is strategically located between the major markets of the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. Muscat International Airport offers a natural point of entry for international delegates. Delegates also have the option to enjoy the city before or after the meeting due to its compact nature. Event organisers who are thinking about accommodation, meeting facilities and delegate convenience when planning business events often wonder which luxury hotels are closest to OCEC in Muscat to place themselves in for convenience. International hotel chains such as Tivoli LA VIE Muscat Hotel & Residences encompass fully serviced apartments that are perfect for extended stays and family travel in Muscat.

Developing MICE infrastructure with strong business support

“The meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) tourism sector in Oman achieved a tangible economic and tourism impact in 2025, recording direct economic returns of approximately RO 15 million. The sector attracted more than 1.9 million visitors, participants, and investors through the hosting of over 250 local, regional and international events — an indicator of the sector’s growing role as a key driver of economic diversification and tourism growth in Oman.” (Oman Observer)

Source: https://www.omanobserver.om/article/1182138/oman/oman-hosts-over-250-events-strengthening-its-meetings-and-exhibitions-sector 

Oman is set to boost business events as part of a wider strategy to promote its tourism and economic-diversification agenda. Oman Vision 2040 has identified tourism and economic diversification as a key priority for the Sultanate. The country hosted 24 major international conferences in 2025 and recorded an MICE-related economic return of approximately OMR 15 million in 2025. This sector also attracted delegates and participants from over 60 different countries.

Business meets Omani culture, nature and leisure

“Oman’s harmony of sea, sand and mountains creates settings that cannot be replicated…MICE tourism is not just about business meetings; it encourages people to explore, dine and experience Oman…Seasonality can be managed if the ecosystem supports it.” (Krupa Khimji, Founder and Creative Director of Mosaic Events, and Said bin Salem al Shanfari, CEO of Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC), Oman Daily) 

Source: https://www.muscatdaily.com/2025/10/21/industry-leaders-chart-path-for-sustainable-tourism-in-oman/ 

Muscat offers more than just conference halls and business hotels. The city offers the best of both worlds: modern infrastructure and traditional Omani architecture and cultural heritage. Delegates can enjoy visiting Mutrah Souq, the Corniche, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and ancient forts in their free time. The strategic location of Muscat offers the possibility of engaging in fun and relaxing activities on board while enjoying cruises along the coast and spotting dolphins, as well as sightseeing walks. Omani food and hospitality provide a local touch to business events. Cultural experiences can help international delegates to understand the country beyond the conference venue.

Conclusion

The growing MICE industry in Muscat can be seen as a part of the ongoing efforts to diversify the tourism sector and develop the business industry in Oman. Enhanced provision of conference facilities, hotels, and other event-related services contributes to the increased variety of options available to organisers in search of venues and services for hosting their events. Enhanced transport infrastructure and the provision of specific support services make Muscat more attractive for international business events and conferences. As Oman develops as a regional MICE destination, Muscat will be able to provide organisers with excellent opportunities to offer their delegates something out of the ordinary.

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