Oman on Monday marked the start to its cruise season with the arrival of Resorts World One in Khasab, and is poised for a surge in international visitors with at least 50 cruise calls scheduled between now and April next year.

Musandam is a major draw on Gulf cruise itineraries thanks to its stunning landscapes and cultural richness, and the continued growth of Dubai as a major homeport for the winter cruise season will drive further investment in Oman’s local cruise tourism infrastructure.

Dubai has not only grown as a hub for regional cruises in the Arabian Gulf, welcoming up to one million cruise tourists annually, but is also homeporting increasingly large vessels. An official from Ministry of Heritage and Tourism explained to Muscat Daily that the arrival of these large cruise ships enhance Oman’s tourism appeal.

“These ‘floating cities’ carry thousands of passengers who are keen on both entertainment and exploration,” the official said. “With growing interest in Oman’s cultural and natural attractions, arrival of these ships revitalise the tourism sector and boost commercial activity. This influx of visitors will likely drive demand for tourism services and encourage further investment in infrastructure and amenities.”

Khasab growing popularity on regional itineraries reflects Oman’s efforts to diversify its tourism market.

According to Musandam Municipality, in anticipation of the 2024/25 winter cruise season, the governorate has several key development projects underway, including development of Kumzar village, and construction of a floating pier in Khor Najd, the Khorsham mountain pass project, and a waterfront in Dibba.

In Kumzar village, new amenities such as a waterfront, children’s park and a sea wall are being added to enhance the area’s appeal.

The Khorsham mountain pass is being built to international standards and will be equipped with solar-powered streetlights.

The Dibba waterfront project will cover 1,285sqm, featuring a wave barrier, a walkway, sports facilities, children’s play areas, display space for local entrepreneurs, a beachside car park, green spaces, sitting areas, and an open-air theatre.

Musandam also inaugurated the Oman Adventure Centre last year with a new zip line that stretches 1,800m from Jebel Fitt to a platform at Atana Khasab Hotel, with riders reaching speeds of up to 80kmph.

Offering panoramic views of Khor Qadi and the Mokhi area, the zip line has been certified by Guinness World Records as the longest zip wire over water, adding another unique attraction to Musandam’s growing list of tourist offerings for cruise passengers.