Latest news with #OMANI
Observer
26-07-2025
- Sport
- Observer
Oman fall to Qatar in West Asia semifinals
MUSCAT: Oman's national volleyball team saw their dream of reaching the final of the West Asian Men's Championship come to an end after suffering a straight-sets defeat to Qatar in the semifinals. The match was held at the Isa Bin Rashid Hall in Isa Town, Kingdom of Bahrain. The encounter was marked by clear dominance from the Qatari side, who capitalised on Oman's errors especially in serving and blocking to claim victory with set scores of 25-18, 25-19, and 25-20. STRONG START BY QATAR, SCATTERED OMANI RESISTANCE Qatar began the match with high intensity, setting the tempo both offensively and defensively. With a well-organised block and effective backline coverage, they quickly exposed Oman's weaknesses, particularly in serve reception and missed serves. Despite individual efforts from Ismail al Haidy, Mahmood al Saadi, and Younis al Amri, the first set went to Qatar 25-18. In the second set, Oman showed clearer intent to recover and improve. The introduction of Adam al Juradi injected some energy into the team, helping Oman level the score at 11-11. However, Qatar regained control through cohesive play and effective counterattacks, eventually taking the set 25-19. The third set began on a relatively even footing, with the score tied at 2-2 before Mohammed al Muqbali put Oman ahead briefly. Yet, a service error from Yousuf al Shukeili allowed Qatar to equalise, and from there they gradually took over, exploiting Oman's poor receptions. Qatar sealed the set 25-20 and the match 3-0. STATS HIGHLIGHT THE GAP Match statistics underscored the disparity between the two sides. Qatar scored a total of 75 points to Oman's 57, committing only 15 errors compared to Oman's 25. Qatar registered two direct service aces, while Oman failed to record any, and committed 10 service errors compared to Qatar's six. In blocking, Qatar recorded 11 points to Oman's six. Individually, Qatar's Youssef Jalaf stood out with 14 points (12 from spikes and two from blocks), while Oman's top scorer, Ismail al Haidy, managed only 11 points and committed five errors. BAHRAIN BOOK FINAL SPOT In the other semifinal, Bahrain secured their place in the final with a 3-1 victory over Saudi Arabia. Despite losing the first set 28-26, Bahrain rallied to win the next three sets 25-16, 25-22, and 25-22. They will now face Qatar in the final. Iranian coach Reza Hossein Vakeeli expressed disappointment with the outcome, stating that the team failed to deliver the expected performance and that both individual and tactical errors cost them a place in the final. Qatar played very well and deserved to win, said Vakeeli. But we made many mistakes, especially in serving and reception.
Zawya
26-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman Tourism sector recovery: New business opportunities
As the economy increasingly diversifies under Oman Vision 2040, the tourism sector is a key pillar of growth. The post-pandemic recovery has created significant opportunities for Omani businesses to benefit from the resurgence of global travel. But in that competitive market, personalised marketing is the way to go — we have described a strategy that increases customer engagement by customising services and experiences to personal preferences. HOW OMAN'S TOURISM INDUSTRY IS BOUNCING BACK Thanks to its unique mix of cultural heritage, raw landscapes and style of luxury hospitality, Oman is often a bucket list destination in the Middle East. Now, with the government's push to develop its infrastructure, promote sustainable tourism, and attract foreign capital, the sector is primed for a strong rebound. International visitor numbers are increasing, along with domestic tourism, and open new avenues for local businesses to innovate and grow. There are several opportunities in different areas of the tourism ecosystem: EXPERIENTIAL TRAVEL SERVICES Contemporary travellers want more than sightseeing; they want to experience. Clearly, Omani companies would be able to devise packages of cultural adventure and eco-tourism that showcase the country's vast heritage and natural beauty. For example, personalised itineraries, private guided tours, and unique local experiences can help businesses stand out. SMART HOSPITALITY SOLUTIONS Integrate AI & data analytics for hotels, resorts, and homestays to do personalised, data-driven solutions for guest experience. Visitors can be provided with personalised room preferences, targeted offers, on-demand virtual concierge services, and more, increasing overall customer satisfaction and brand loyalty. LOCAL HANDICRAFTS AND RETAIL The growing demand for eco-friendly and ethically produced tourism drives with the desire for authentic, locally produced goods. At the same time, handicraft businesses can use e-commerce and social media tools to reach a global audience that craves personalised souvenirs and bespoke products. FOOD AND BEVERAGE INDUSTRY More footfall in restaurants and food outlets through personalised dining experiences, chef-curated menus and AI-driven recommendation systems. Local farms can partner with tourism businesses to help shaft farm-to-table concepts, which are attractive to environmentally conscious travellers. WELLNESS AND LUXURY TOURISM Personalised marketing is the way to go. Image for illustration only. Wellness tourism: spa retreats and wellness resorts are in demand. Finally, the wellness + relaxation segment — this is where Omani businesses can cater to this segment of wellness travellers, by providing wellness packages tailored to their needs, traditional Omani-exclusive treatments, and even alternative healing experiences. HOW PERSONALISED MARKETING COULD CHANGE THE GAME FOR OMANI COMPANIES With the rise of digital transformation, personalised marketing is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. With customer data, businesses can customise promotions, services and communication to align with what consumers desire. HOW DOES PERSONALISED MARKETING WORK? Data-driven insights: AI and machine learning tools can identify an individual customer's behaviour, preferences, and past interactions to craft targeted marketing campaigns. This data can be used by hotels, airlines, and travel agencies to provide bespoke packages and unique offers. Customised communication: Instead of generic advertisements, businesses have instant access to travellers, allowing them to contact travellers with unique emails, push notifications, and chatbot interactions that appeal to their particular interests. Social media engagement: Social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok are important in influencing people's travel decision making. Influencer marketing, interactive content and geo-targeted advertisement are some of the strategies that enterprises in Oman can use to attract customers and retain them. Loyalty and reward programmes: Vendor-specific discounts, offers, and membership rewards foster repeat visits and long-term customers. Inclusion, it seems, goes both ways — and travellers are more inclined to return to businesses that acknowledge their tastes and deliver personalised experiences. Challenges and way forward: While opportunities are many, Omani businesses struggle to adopt and implement personalised marketing strategies. Concerns about data privacy, the adaptation of technology and investment in digital tools continue to hinder the transition, however. But enterprises can adopt digital marketing and innovations with the help of strategic partnerships, government assistance and upskilling the local talent. CONCLUSION Oman's burgeoning tourism market opens up huge opportunities for local businesses, but they must embrace modern marketing strategies to reap the rewards. Personalised marketing is the next step in marketing evolution—it's how businessmen will understand and foster the needs of their audience, setting up not only the future of tourism, but the future of Oman as a whole. The moment of action has arrived—optimal digital transformation, improved customer experiences, and stronger, more personalised tourism that Omani companies should act on. 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Observer
25-03-2025
- Business
- Observer
Tourism sector recovery: New business opportunities
As the economy increasingly diversifies under Oman Vision 2040, the tourism sector is a key pillar of growth. The post-pandemic recovery has created significant opportunities for Omani businesses to benefit from the resurgence of global travel. But in that competitive market, personalised marketing is the way to go — we have described a strategy that increases customer engagement by customising services and experiences to personal preferences. HOW OMAN'S TOURISM INDUSTRY IS BOUNCING BACK Thanks to its unique mix of cultural heritage, raw landscapes and style of luxury hospitality, Oman is often a bucket list destination in the Middle East. Now, with the government's push to develop its infrastructure, promote sustainable tourism, and attract foreign capital, the sector is primed for a strong rebound. International visitor numbers are increasing, along with domestic tourism, and open new avenues for local businesses to innovate and grow. There are several opportunities in different areas of the tourism ecosystem: EXPERIENTIAL TRAVEL SERVICES Contemporary travellers want more than sightseeing; they want to experience. Clearly, Omani companies would be able to devise packages of cultural adventure and eco-tourism that showcase the country's vast heritage and natural beauty. For example, personalised itineraries, private guided tours, and unique local experiences can help businesses stand out. SMART HOSPITALITY SOLUTIONS Integrate AI & data analytics for hotels, resorts, and homestays to do personalised, data-driven solutions for guest experience. Visitors can be provided with personalised room preferences, targeted offers, on-demand virtual concierge services, and more, increasing overall customer satisfaction and brand loyalty. LOCAL HANDICRAFTS AND RETAIL The growing demand for eco-friendly and ethically produced tourism drives with the desire for authentic, locally produced goods. At the same time, handicraft businesses can use e-commerce and social media tools to reach a global audience that craves personalised souvenirs and bespoke products. FOOD AND BEVERAGE INDUSTRY More footfall in restaurants and food outlets through personalised dining experiences, chef-curated menus and AI-driven recommendation systems. Local farms can partner with tourism businesses to help shaft farm-to-table concepts, which are attractive to environmentally conscious travellers. WELLNESS AND LUXURY TOURISM Personalised marketing is the way to go. Image for illustration only. Wellness tourism: spa retreats and wellness resorts are in demand. Finally, the wellness + relaxation segment — this is where Omani businesses can cater to this segment of wellness travellers, by providing wellness packages tailored to their needs, traditional Omani-exclusive treatments, and even alternative healing experiences. HOW PERSONALISED MARKETING COULD CHANGE THE GAME FOR OMANI COMPANIES With the rise of digital transformation, personalised marketing is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. With customer data, businesses can customise promotions, services and communication to align with what consumers desire. HOW DOES PERSONALISED MARKETING WORK? Data-driven insights: AI and machine learning tools can identify an individual customer's behaviour, preferences, and past interactions to craft targeted marketing campaigns. This data can be used by hotels, airlines, and travel agencies to provide bespoke packages and unique offers. Customised communication: Instead of generic advertisements, businesses have instant access to travellers, allowing them to contact travellers with unique emails, push notifications, and chatbot interactions that appeal to their particular interests. Social media engagement: Social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok are important in influencing people's travel decision making. Influencer marketing, interactive content and geo-targeted advertisement are some of the strategies that enterprises in Oman can use to attract customers and retain them. Loyalty and reward programmes: Vendor-specific discounts, offers, and membership rewards foster repeat visits and long-term customers. Inclusion, it seems, goes both ways — and travellers are more inclined to return to businesses that acknowledge their tastes and deliver personalised experiences. Challenges and way forward: While opportunities are many, Omani businesses struggle to adopt and implement personalised marketing strategies. Concerns about data privacy, the adaptation of technology and investment in digital tools continue to hinder the transition, however. But enterprises can adopt digital marketing and innovations with the help of strategic partnerships, government assistance and upskilling the local talent. CONCLUSION Oman's burgeoning tourism market opens up huge opportunities for local businesses, but they must embrace modern marketing strategies to reap the rewards. Personalised marketing is the next step in marketing evolution—it's how businessmen will understand and foster the needs of their audience, setting up not only the future of tourism, but the future of Oman as a whole. The moment of action has arrived—optimal digital transformation, improved customer experiences, and stronger, more personalised tourism that Omani companies should act on.
Observer
15-03-2025
- Business
- Observer
The role of ESG in support of the Omani economy
Environment, social, and Corporate Governance (ESG) has become an important variable for measuring sustainability and social impact of businesses and investments. With the growing economy and Oman Vision 2040 strategy, Oman has been adopting the ESG framework in line with international sustainability objectives. This article discusses how ESG aids the Omani economy while noting essential advantages, challenges, and undertakings by the government and private sector. COMPONENTS OF ESG The three key constituents of ESG are: - Environmental: Covers sustainability, resource utilization, and climate change issues. - Social: Relates to employment practices, philanthropy, and social duties. - Governance: Pertains to corporate conduct, accountability, and business disclosure practices. Oman stands to improve economic diversification, attract responsible investment, and enhance economic growth by incorporating ESG in national policies and business strategies. EFFECTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS ON THE OMANI ECONOMY a. Sustainability Efforts and Renewable Energy Sources: Oman is shifting its energy strategy to include renewable sources of energy such as solar and wind. Vision 2040 targets a lower fossil fuel dependency paired with greater renewable energy involvement. The Ibri II and Manah I & II solar plants are examples of these new initiatives. b. Efforts to Combat Climate Change: Oman has set up policies meant to lower carbon emissions and conserve biodiversity. Oman is a signatory to international environmental treaties, and has laws aimed at controlling industrial waste as well as water usage. c. Sustainable Tourism: The promotion of ecotourism spurs economic growth while ensuring the protection of nature. Promotion of sustainable tourism, stimulated by projects like Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve and Al Hoota Cave, results in increased funds and jobs available for Omanis. SOCIAL FACTORS OF ESG IN OMAN a. Employment and Human Capital: The ESG framework leads to positive impacts on the labor market in terms of employment and training opportunities. Oman's Omanization policy guarantees nationals employment in the public sector. There is a drive for companies to build supportive training programs that meet ESG criteria and guidelines. b. Social Responsibility Initiatives within Firms (CSR): Omani businesses, covering telecom, banking, and oil companies, do actively take part in CSR programmes across education, healthcare and community development as a part of their business operations. c. Regulations on Health and Safety: Workers in Oman are protected by strict laws on health and safety. Those in gas and oil, manufacturing, construction, and other industries must follow basic international safety requirements aimed at preventing accidents in the workplace. CORPORATE GOVERNANCE WITH THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF OMAN a. Openness and Responsibility: The public sector institutions in Oman such as the Financial Services Authority have integrated public policies the governance practices in the country in order to improve both transparency and investments by enforcing corporative governance measures. Publicly listed businesses are bound by some legally defined limits in their operations to ensure morality in business activities. b. Foreign Direct Investments (FDI): International investment is drawn to Oman because of its solid governance. Countries willing to invest Oman are able to do so due to the lack of strict policies in Oman where foreign investors are invited to partake in key industries that include tourism, manufacturing, and logistics c. Digital Transformation with Government: Business processes in Oman are very much manual and Oman is moving towards the adoption of digital government. Use of digital financial payments through blockchain technology and AI compliance monitoring reduces corruption and increases efficiency. OBSTACLES RELATED TO ESG PURSUITS IN OMAN a. Issues Concerning Regulations and Compliance: Difficulties in funding remains an obstacle to ESG implementation. Some companies find it difficult to manage compliance costs, and lack of relevant skill further aggravates the problem. b. Social Awareness and Changing Perceptions: There needs to be a significant change in societal perception towards ESG. There is the need for educational campaigns aimed at all relevant stakeholders in both the private and public sectors. c. Economic Development versus Environmental Sustainability: Increased reliance on oil by Oman makes it difficult to achieve a balance between economic performance and sustainability objectives. Risk management that goes beyond oil diversification is necessary. RECOMMENDATIONS AND FORECASTS FOR THE FUTURE A stronger ESG approach in Oman would be possible through overall adoption of the following recommendations. • Policy Enhancements: The government should introduce more robust ESG policies and incentives for businesses adopting sustainable practices. • Capacity Building: Training programmes and knowledge-sharing platforms can help businesses understand and implement ESG effectively. • Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborations between government agencies and private enterprises can drive ESG initiatives and investments. • Sustainable Finance: Encouraging green financing and ESG-linked bonds can support eco-friendly projects and economic diversification CONCLUSION Oman is undergoing an economic transformation, and the country is highly focused on economic diversification, and ESG principles will be incredibly useful in achieving this goal. Oman can significantly improve economic diversification, attract foreign investment, and guarantee prolonged welfare by implementing environmental, social, and governance policies, as well, by promoting sustainability. Creating policies that center around ESG will not only deliver positive change in Oman, but also on an international level.
