Spain: Oman and Spain discuss strengthening tourism relations
The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, held several meetings in Madrid with various government and private entities in the Kingdom of Spain. These meetings aimed to enhance cooperation in the tourism sector as part of Oman’s participation in the International Tourism Fair “FITUR 2025.”
During the meetings, Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, discussed with the Spanish company Paradores opportunities for cooperation in using historical sites, such as Omani forts and castles, as luxury accommodation while preserving their historical value.
He also met with María Valcarce, Director of the “FITUR” exhibition. They discussed the possibility of expanding the Ministry's pavilion in future participations to align with its promotional plans for the Spanish market.
The Minister also met with Pablo Caralps, CEO of the consultancy firm BCN Brand, the Spanish firm behind Oman’s Tourism Strategy 2040. The meeting evaluated progress made on the strategy in recent years and explored the possibility of updating some of its targets to reflect national, regional, and global changes.
At Oman’s pavilion in the “FITUR” exhibition, the Minister discussed with several Spanish officials the future plans for Spain, and Europe in general, in the tourism sector, as well as global challenges facing the tourism industry.
In a press statement following the meetings, The Minister revealed plans to organise approximately 500 unscheduled charter flights to Oman between October 2025 and April 2026. Most of these flights will originate from European countries such as Poland, Italy, Slovenia, and others with which contracts have been signed.
He also expressed hope that direct air routes between Oman and Spain would be established in the near future, alongside the launch of charter flights from Spain to Oman, noting that nearly 10 million Spanish tourists travel within the region annually.
Spanish officials praised Oman’s unique tourism advantages, highlighting its diverse environment and varied terrain, which make it an attractive destination for visitors and tourists, particularly from the Spanish market.