Oman – An Enchanting MICE Destination
Dramatic landscapes, ancient souks and fascinating stories. Oman is a growing destination for meetings, events and incentives, from the vibrant capital of Muscat to the Bedouin villages and famous incense route.
Home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Oman is steeped in history and has inspired some of literature’s most famous tales. Among the mountains, desert and crystal clear waters are date farms, the wadis and stunning natural pools; perfect for a night under the stars to relax.
Did you know?
Citizens from 103 countries, including India, do not need a visa for stays in Oman up to 14 days, so long as they have a confirmed hotel booking, health insurance and return ticket.
7 reasons to choose Oman for your next MICE destination
1. Variety of venues and entertainment
The Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre boasts many venue options, with its 220,000 square feet of column-free exhibition space, ten meeting rooms, and 3,200-seat and 450-seat auditoriums and two banquet halls. There’s also the Royal Opera House with its elegant and sophisticated setting, or The Cave Restaurants on Mount Darsait with a range of international cuisine to suit all tastes. Hire an Omani band, harpist or violinist for that musical flair, or LED drummers and fire dancers!
2. Accommodation to suit all
Major hotel chains have properties across Oman with various room numbers and ballroom sizes, from Shangri-La, Jumeriah, Grand Hyatt and Kempinski to Marriott, Ritz-Carlton and W. For a more authentic experience, there are luxury tents from Dunes by Nahda.
3. Cuisine for all tastes
Culinary delights will suit all appetites! There’s the 80-pax Al Angham restaurant with its unique Omani patterns and designs, or the new Maya Firangi Indian Lounge serving Indian fusion food for up to 150 people. Your group could also enjoy a traditional Omani meal at Bait Al Lubna with exotic spices and ingredients, an Omani fusion meal at Ubhar Restaurant, or head to Caramel, the perfect spot for unwinding and having a fun evening with colleagues. There’s also the fort-looking Rozna Restaurant, the views from Mumtaz Mahal, the high-rise Liquid Sky or the tropical rainforest theme at The Jungle.
4. A capital like no other
Muscat is a rich blend of ancient and modern architecture, with a host of landmarks and markets to visit. Highlights include the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Bait Al Zubair Museum, Al Alam Palace and the Muttrah Souq. Your group can take a half-day tour with an audio guide, or use the Big Bus to soak up the best sights of the city. Or enjoy a sunset cruise on a traditional dhow, taking in the coastline of medieval forts and fishing villages.
5. Explore the landscapes
Beyond Muscat, there are mountains to explore. Literally. Jebel Akhdar, aka the Green Mountain, and the Hajar Mountains can be explored from the capital for those days when you need fresh air and stunning vistas. Or why not send your group on a day trip to the coast, the enchanting city of Nizwa, or the deep blue waters of Wahiba Sands & Wadi Bani Khalid.
6. Next-level team building
Activities are always a fun part of MICE trips! Oman has CSR and adventure activities available for groups, as well as water sports and even treasure hunting in Muttrah Suq.
7. Take in nature’s wonders
If your group are the more adventurous types, there’s plenty to explore in Oman’s natural wonders. Why not charter a boat, swim with dolphins off the Muscat coast, visit the Daymaniyet Islands, or go snorkelling around the Bandar Khiran Bay? If staying on land is more your thing, there’s the option of a private desert safari and overnight stay in a tent or room, or taking a night tour of the Al Bustan Palace.