Dear Reader,

Welcome to the much awaited year end  issue of Oman Vistas!

 This issue focuses on the tourism sector - one of the main drivers of the Oman economy in future as outlined in “Vision Oman 2020” that covers various proposals for the Sultanate’s development through a span of twenty-five years till 2020. It will look into the far-reaching changes in the world economy and revolutions in the telecommunications and information technology which have transformed the global system of production and exchange. “Vision Oman 2020” represents a dynamic dividing line between two stages of the Sultanate’s economic and social development, necessitating a new journey into the third millennium. The tourism sector in the future is going to be one of the main revenue sources of a richly diversified economy and this is where the Integrated Tourism Projects (ITPs) come into the picture.

Did you know there are currently about 30 Integrated Tourism Projects (ITPs) underway in Oman? Some of the prestigious projects that commenced earlier on have begun bestowing  the first  phase of the property to the waiting buyers. Others are fast nearing completion and in addition, new ITPs being launched too.

We had the opportunity to meet up with the CEOs of some of these Integrated Tourism Projects. Here is a status report for you.  The news is heart-warming. Inspite of the talk of global meltdown of money markets, there was optimism and the mood was jubilant everywhere. Oman especially appears to radiate positive vibes from everyone. It’s truly the  jewel of the middle east that shines bright.

The past year saw a steep incline in the rentals of residential and commercial properties. This has been an area of concern for many. These concerns were put across by us to a leading real estate company, and the answers are here for your perusal.

With the Sultanate of Oman now emerging as a prime tourism destination in the Middle East,  the hospitality industry is doing exceedingly well and the existing hotels have revamped their marketing strategies clocking occupancy figures are high throughout the year.

 We also met up with the hospitality industry captains to find out how they are faring with the boom times in tourism. 

This issue also covers  areas like human resources, energy, event management which  we hope you will find an enjoyable and engrossing read.

As you leaf through the pages, you will note that all stories are first hand accounts and mostly interviews with decision makers who make things happen.  The feedback received from the readers for the earlier issues, seems to indicate that an interview is the most engaging and most objective way of presentation. Since Oman Vistas comes out only once in every few months, we also want it to be more like a handy guide that you can read and refer to time and again. As a reader we also want you to give you a first hand account of things which will give you a clear strategy towards the way ahead. What you won’t get is a coloured view of things, which is so true of other forms of presentation.

In the issues that will ensue, we promise to keep improving and covering newer topics. In the meanwhile don’t forget to give us your valuable feedback that gives us the much needed impetus to keep moving ahead. Write to us at editor@omanvistas.com