Oman signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).
The MoU was signed on
the sidelines of the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference currently being held
in Phuket, Thailand, reported ONA.
Oman’s participation
in the event constitutes a strategic approach to sustainability, being a key
pillar in developing the tourism sector.
The MoU was signed by
Sayyid Ibrahim Al Busaidi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism.
The MoU focuses on the
Ministry’s joining the GSTC in its capacity as a government body that
represents tourist destinations in Oman.
Membership to the GSTC
enables the Ministry to benefit from international references in developing
sustainable tourism policies and applying global standards in managing and
developing tourist destinations.
The MoU stipulates
joint action to develop comprehensive policies in the field of sustainable
tourism, including the establishment of integrated institutional frameworks for
managing sustainability in the tourism sector.
Its terms cover
measures for proper planning, financing, standardised performance and follow-up
of activities.
It provides that the
GTSC shall lend technical support in devising programmes to ensure the
integration of sustainability at different levels of tourism action at the
national level.
The MoU also includes
the Ministry’s pledge to endorse the GTSC’s standards recognition
programme—notably to adopt sustainability standards as an official national
reference and to encourage tourism establishments in Oman.
This will contribute
to upgrading the quality of services and enhancing efficiency in managing
natural and cultural resources.
The MoU also deals
with cooperation in the field of capacity building through the application of
the GTSC’s expertise in training national cadres and developing their skills in
managing tourism sustainability.
The MoU is scheduled
to bring about great improvement in the tourism sector in Oman, namely by realising
transition towards a sustainable tourism model that balances economic growth
with the protection of natural and cultural resources.
The Minister said in a
statement that “Sustainability in the tourism sector is no longer a
supplementary option, but rather the framework that shapes all development and
investment decisions.”
Sayyid Ibrahim said:
“Through this MoU, the Ministry seeks to convert sustainability into a
measurable and applicable institutional practice that covers the management of
tourist destinations, enhances optimum use of resources upgrading the role of
local communities as a key partner in development.”
He added that, during
the next phase, the Ministry will focus on implementing clear standards for
managing energy and water resources, minimising the environmental impact of
tourism activities and preserving the Omani cultural identity.
The Minister pointed out that the Ministry’s overall objective is to establish a national model for sustainable tourism that aligns with global best practices and enhances Oman’s long-term competitiveness.