Oman to launch digital tourism platform for local guides

Oman is set to launch an integrated digital platform designed to connect licensed local guides with international travellers and broaden the reach of the country’s tourism offerings. 

 

Due to go live in the first quarter of 2026, the platform will enable Omani independent tourist guides to promote their services to global audiences, with tourism products set to be distributed “across more than 170 countries through global partnerships”.

 

The project, which is a collaboration between the Oman Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and the National Travel Operator, will be implemented in two stages.

 

The first phase will focus on developing and curating digital content, with licensed guides supported in producing professional descriptions and high-quality visual content tailored for search engines and booking platforms. 

 

The second phase will introduce the platform itself, incorporating a full reservation system, multilingual functionality in Arabic and English, electronic payment solutions and direct links to global distribution networks. 

 

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A dedicated back-end portal will give guides the ability to manage their own content and offerings.

 

Alongside the technical rollout, the project will be supported by a digital marketing strategy featuring international advertising campaigns and enhanced visibility on booking platforms. 

 

This approach aims to boost the online presence of Oman’s tourism products while driving higher exposure and bookings for local guides.

 

His Excellency Al Busaidi described the digital platform as “a qualitative step toward empowering national competencies in the tourism guidance sector and expanding the international reach of Omani tourism.” 

 

Shabib Al Maamari, GM of the National Travel Operator, said the system would “open new horizons for Omani guides and companies to showcase their experiences globally,” positioning the initiative as a transformative tool for the country’s tourism sector.

 

Oman Tourism is investing significantly in travel tech, with development arm Omran recently making a US$7 million investment in UnderTheDoormat Group on a digital platform to connect local property owners to global booking sites.

 

For more information, visit mht.gov.om