Tuesday 17 / March / 2026
Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman has emerged as a top destination for UAE residents during the upcoming Eid Al Fitr holidays, with travel agents reporting a sharp rise in interest for short, affordable getaways.
Industry experts say the surge is being driven by security concerns and airspace disruptions in the region following recent attacks on Dubai and Abu Dhabi, prompting many residents to opt for road travel.
As a result, heavy traffic is expected at key crossings such as the Hatta border crossing.
Destinations including Musandam and Muscat are seeing strong demand, offering a mix of scenic landscapes, cultural experiences and affordability without the need for air travel. Travel agents noted that visa-on-arrival facilities for expatriate further simplify entry, making Oman an attractive option for spontaneous trips.
With a four-day holiday break, many travellers are choosing self-drive trips, allowing flexibility to explore hiking trails, coastal escapes and mountain retreats at their own pace.
Data from the National Centre for Statistics and Information indicates that GCC visitors staying in three- to five-star hotels in Oman increased by over 7 per cent in 2025, highlighting rising regional demand.
Overall, Oman welcomed nearly 3.9 million visitors last year, reflecting continued recovery and growing appeal as a tourism hub.
“The country’s diverse landscapes — from the cool heights of Jebel Akhdar to the beaches of Muscat — continue to attract families and weekend travellers,” a travel agent said.
“As we approach the Eid break, we are seeing growing interest in staycations, particularly in destinations that offer space, nature, and a sense of ease for families travelling within the region.
Drivable destinations such as Jabal Akhdar are becoming especially relevant, offering a seamless and reassuring journey for guests choosing to stay closer to home.
At dusitD2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar, our focus is on creating a well-balanced Eid experience centred on calm, connection, and shared moments.
The setting in the mountains brings cooler temperatures and a slower pace, with fresh air and open views that allow guests to fully switch off and spend quality time together.
Jagdeip Thakral, General Manager, dusitD2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar, said, “For Eid, we have curated a range of experiences designed for all ages. Guests can enjoy unlimited access to the Naseem Adventure Park, alongside more active moments on the padel court. Families are also invited to take part in Kids’ Club activities and unwind with mini cinema evenings, while dining experiences such as our authentic Bedouin dinner at Sky View bring a deeper sense of place to the celebration. This season, we offer a setting where guests can step away, reconnect with loved ones, and celebrate Eid in a way that feels meaningful and unhurried.”
Oman’s hospitality sector has also recorded robust growth, with hotel guest numbers rising by more than 10 per cent in 2025 and revenues increasing by over 22 per cent, supported by higher occupancy rates and stronger travel activity.
