Oman joins the world in celebrating International Tourist Guide Day
The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT), joins the world in celebrating International Tourist Guide Day. This occasion acknowledges the vital role that tourist guides play in providing historical, cultural, and tourism-related information about landmarks, sites, and attractions visited by tourists. Their efforts enhance visitors' experiences, allowing them to enjoy memorable and engaging tourism adventures.
The Ministry celebrates this occasion on 21 February each year, recognising the crucial role of Omani tourist guides and the significant impact they have in making visits to the Sultanate of Oman exceptional. Their expertise enriches visitors' experiences with valuable insights and ensures the best possible tourism experiences.
Anwar bin Mohammed Al Mahrooqi, Head of the Tour Guides Section at the MHT, emphasised the importance of highlighting the vital role that tourist guides play in the tourism sector. He noted that site guides serve as ambassadors of the Sultanate of Oman, offering visitors a gateway to understanding the country's diverse cultures, rich history, natural landscapes, and unique heritage.
Al Mahrooqi stated that by the end of 2024, the ministry had issued approximately 1,175 tourist guide licences, with English being the most commonly licensed language. Additionally, licences have been granted for other foreign languages, including French, German, Spanish, Italian, Russian and several others.
He further highlighted the ministry's efforts to increase the number of licensed guides in non-English foreign languages, responding to market demand and the growing diversity of tourism markets. Raising awareness of the importance and role of tourist guides remains a key priority.
The Head of the Tour Guides Section also pointed out that the Ministry has recently worked on regulating adventure tourism activities and training professionals in this exciting and dynamic field. Effective partnerships have been established with relevant entities to empower specialist adventure tourism guides. He noted that 52 Omani tourist guides are currently licensed for adventure tourism, including six female guides specialising in the field.
Furthermore, the total number of licensed female guides across all categories has reached 101, reflecting the increasing interest of Omani women in the profession. Women are undoubtedly key partners in the development of the tourism sector, and the Ministry is committed to ensuring both men and women actively contribute to the implementation of strategies aimed at enhancing the industry.