Showcasing the tremendous possibilities of Oman as a destination and the Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC) as the world’s convention venue of choice, the OCEC, in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, participated at premier events industry exhibition; IMEX Frankfurt 2016. At the influential event, the Ministry of Tourism and the OCEC held a media conference to officially announce the highly anticipated opening of OCEC Phase One on 15th August, 2016 and the launch of the Oman Convention Bureau, created to provide regulatory assistance for business tourism in Oman and spearhead growth of the emerging industry.
Commenting on both announcements, Her Excellency Maitha Al Mahrouqi, Under Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism said: “A unique and irresistible country with delegate appeal in abundance, Oman is quickly gaining a reputation as one of the world’s most exciting meeting, convention, and exhibition destinations with the catalyst being the nation’s pillar project, the OCEC. IMEX Frankfurt 2016 is a valuable opportunity to present the formidable array of assets that make Oman such a dynamic meetings environment and to introduce the Oman Convention Bureau and its diverse services to the global events industry.”
Outlining the strengths that make Oman an oasis of opportunity, Her Excellency highlighted the Sultanate’s robust economy, flourishing enterprise culture, immense intellectual capital, reputation as one of the world’s safest and most tranquil destinations, and its youthful and ambitious multi-cultural population. She also pointed out the Sultanate’s wealth of natural assets including an enviable location at the nexus of East-West trade routes, stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture and heritage. The Under Secretary went on to emphasise the investment that has been made in infrastructure to support Oman’s business tourism, including the redevelopment and expansion of Muscat and Salalah International Airports; the construction of new regional airports in Duqm and Sohar; the expansion of Oman’s Air’s network route; the establishment of new budget carrier Salam Air; and the construction of many new hotels.
Trevor McCartney OCEC General Manager added: “The OCEC is ready for business and we can’t wait to meet the world! With our Phase I facilities coming online on 15th of August 2016, we are set to impress with 22,000 superb square metres of flexible column free exhibition space and ten state-of-the-art hospitality suites supported by a full service kitchen, staffed by expert chefs. On top of that, the purpose built OCEC Precinct is just four kilometres and ten minutes’ drive from Muscat International Airport, conveniently located close to the myriad of cultural attractions in Muscat, and within easy reach of an array of luxury hotels and resorts, stunning beaches, mountains, desert and wadis – ideal for sightseeing and a host of outdoor activities.”
McCartney added, “IMEX Frankfurt 2016 was a great platform that helped us nurture global networking opportunities with potential clients interested in bringing their business to Oman and the OCEC as one of the world’s most compelling events destinations.”
While participating at IMEX Frankfurt 2016, the OCEC engaged in a series of pre-scheduled appointments with high profile organisations and professional associations from sectors pivotal to Oman’s economic diversification strategy. To find out more about the OCEC, please go to: www.omanconvention.com.