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MUSCAT: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT), in collaboration with the National Employment Programme and the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP), launched today the “Freelancer Registry" initiative for those working in the tour guiding profession.

The initiative was inaugurated by H.E. Azzan bin Qassim Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of Tourism at the MHT, in the presence of officials from both the public and private sectors at the Ministry's headquarters.

The initiative aims to support and regulate the tour guiding sector in the Sultanate of Oman. Additionally, the Registry facilitates procedures for independent workers in this field and provides them with a supportive environment, enhancing the quality of tour guiding services in line with the tourism aspirations of the Sultanate of Oman.

The Freelancer Registry provides a legal and regulatory framework for tour guides, contributing to the improvement of service levels for visitors and supporting practitioners by offering training and development opportunities.

H.E. Al Busaidi, said “The crucial role played by tour guides in the tourism industry, by showcasing the bright image of tourist attractions, leaves a positive impression on tourists during their visits. The likelihood of a tourist returning for another visit largely depends on the guide's character, the authenticity of the information they share, and the engaging storytelling used during group tours."

H.E. Al Busaidi highlighted that obtaining a tour guide license after completing the required training period is one of the steps set by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism to reinforce the concept of quality in the practice of tour guiding. This is in addition to raising awareness among workers in this field, motivating them to enhance their competitiveness locally, and encouraging them to adhere to the quality standards established for continuous improvement and development, as well as ensuring ongoing training and development for human resources engaged in the profession.

H.E. further noted that the number of Omani tour guides holding valid licenses reached 906 as of the end of September this year.

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H.E. emphasised that the launch of the Freelancer Registry initiative for the tour guiding profession aims to highlight the importance of practicing the profession, recognize the valuable contributions of tour guides to the tourism industry in the Sultanate of Oman, and encourage those interested and studying in the tourism sector to pursue a career in tour guiding. This, in turn, will create job opportunities for citizens in this vital field. Additionally, the initiative outlines the benefits of registering in the Freelancer Registry, the facilities provided, and the advantages of contracting with freelancers.

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