Iran and Oman Forge Stronger Bonds: Expanding Marine and Cultural Tourism Opportunities
In a significant development for the tourism sector, Iran and Oman strengthen tourism ties during the 26th General Assembly of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) held in Riyadh. Seyed Reza Salehi Amiri, Iran’s Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, met with Salem bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Oman’s Minister of Heritage and Tourism, to explore collaborative opportunities aimed at enhancing bilateral tourism.
During this high-profile meeting, Salehi Amiri articulated Iran’s comprehensive strategy focused on a marine-based economy and the enhancement of coastal tourism. He remarked, “Our policy is grounded in expanding regional cooperation and activating the capacities of the Persian Gulf. The development of maritime tourism not only promotes cultural and economic exchanges but also strengthens the human and social bonds between Iran and Oman.” He further emphasized, “Cooperation with Oman can serve as a successful model for the entire region.”
To solidify this partnership, Salehi Amiri proposed several key areas for collaboration:
- Increasing the number of direct weekly flights between Iran and Oman from 12 to 60.
- Organizing joint tourism rallies and cultural events.
- Holding reciprocal tourism exhibitions in Tehran and Muscat to showcase the rich tourism potential of both nations.
Another focal point of the discussion was Iran’s burgeoning capacity in the field of health tourism. Salehi Amiri pointed out that Iran, boasting over 1,000 hospitals and a vast pool of medical professionals, can offer affordable and high-quality healthcare services for visitors from Oman. He described this as a crucial pillar for future cooperation between the two nations.
As the meeting concluded, Salehi Amiri extended an invitation to Al Mahrouqi to attend the upcoming Tehran International Tourism Exhibition scheduled for February 2026. This event will provide an opportunity for Oman to explore Iran’s latest tourism initiatives and investment opportunities firsthand.
Salem bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi expressed his satisfaction with the discussions, stating, “Iran is a strategic, historical partner and a source of stability in the region. The relationship between our two nations is built on respect and long-standing friendship, and we have always welcomed closer cooperation with the Islamic Republic of Iran.”
Al Mahrouqi praised the concept of maritime tourism as “highly practical and visionary,” highlighting Oman’s advantages with over 40 ports and access to three seas. He expressed his readiness to sign a joint memorandum of understanding aimed at developing cruise tourism and marine passenger exchanges with Iran.
Furthermore, the Omani minister acknowledged the increasing appeal of Iran as a travel destination for Omani citizens. “Iran is an attractive, safe, and culturally rich destination that offers not only medical tourism but also great potential for historical and nature-based travel,” he stated.
In addition to the proposed tourism exhibitions, Al Mahrouqi suggested a collaborative project with UNESCO focused on ancient qanat systems, which are traditional irrigation methods that demonstrate the historical ingenuity of the region. He also announced Oman’s willingness to host an Iranian health tourism exhibition in Muscat, aimed at introducing Omani citizens to Iran’s advanced medical and wellness services.
Both ministers concluded the talks by reaffirming their commitment to enhancing cooperation across various sectors, including maritime, health, cultural, and exhibition tourism. They agreed to establish a joint working group to monitor and follow up on the outcomes from their discussions.
This meeting marks a pivotal moment in fostering tourism partnerships between Iran and Oman, setting the stage for future growth and collaboration that could benefit both nations and enhance cultural exchanges in the broader region.
