Oman is the new favourite travel destination for Indians: Reasons, popular spots

The land of frankincense, Oman, is becoming increasingly popular among Indian tourists, and, interestingly, annual numbers rose by 11%, according to Oman's Ministry of Heritage and Tourism. Oman welcomed 6.94 lakh Indian visitors in 2025, an 11 per cent rise over the 2024 figures, says Yousuf Khalaf Al Mujaizi, Assistant Director of Business Development, Tourism Promotion Directorate. This year, between January and June 2026, Oman registered 3.81 lakh Indian arrivals.

Why are the numbers rising?
Accessibility and growing air connectivity are key drivers behind the surge, said Mujaizi. Direct services from more than 10 Indian cities to Muscat, and expanding links to Salalah, have apparently made the Sultanate of Oman more convenient for a wide range of Indian travellers. Oman's position as a destination that blends nature, culture, adventure, luxury and authentic hospitality is increasingly appealing to evolving Indian traveller preferences, he said.

Indian visitors are also moving beyond conventional holiday experiences. "There is a growing interest across family holidays, premium travel, adventure, nature, destination weddings and MICE (Meetings-Incentives-Conferences-Exhibitions)," the official said. The focus now is on encouraging longer stays and dispersing visitors to emerging regions beyond Muscat and Salalah, he said.

A few popular spots
a) The capital city of Muscat with the magnificent Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and the traditional Muttrah Souq.  
b) Beyond the city, the historic Nizwa Fort.
c) Hiking through the crystal-clear turquoise pools of Wadi Shab
d) Camel treks and 4x4 rides across the deserts, rugged mountains and deep river canyons. 
e) Canyon views from Jebel Shams
d) The lush seasonal greenery of Salalah during the monsoon, 
e) Limestone waters of the Bimmah Sinkhole
(With PTI inputs)