In a strategic move to boost its global outreach, Goa Tourism has set its sights on the Middle East—specifically Oman—as a key source market for inbound travelers. In April 2025, a high-profile roadshow was held in Muscat at the prestigious Crowne Plaza Muscat, showcasing Goa’s cultural vibrancy, tourism offerings, and evolving landscape beyond its popular beaches. This initiative marks a significant step in Goa’s international tourism strategy and highlights the region’s commitment to diversifying its visitor base while promoting sustainable and experiential tourism.
A Cultural Showcase in Muscat
The event, dubbed the “Goa Evening,” was a dynamic mix of cultural immersion, strategic networking, and tourism promotion. Attendees, which included Oman’s top travel agents, tour operators, hospitality representatives, media professionals, and potential investors, were treated to a compelling showcase of Goan hospitality. From traditional folk performances and destination presentations to curated culinary experiences, the evening provided a multi-sensory introduction to Goa’s rich heritage.
The roadshow was organized under the leadership of Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director of the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), with strong representation from the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) led by its President, Shri Jack Sukhija. Their collaborative presence signaled Goa’s unified vision to strengthen international partnerships and elevate the region as a holistic travel destination.
Expanding Horizons: Beyond Beaches
While Goa has long been synonymous with sun, sand, and sea, the roadshow in Muscat showcased a more evolved and expansive vision of tourism. Hon’ble Tourism Minister of Goa, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized that Goa is undergoing a transformation—from being seen solely as a beach getaway to a multifaceted destination that includes spiritual circuits, wellness tourism, eco-travel, and cultural heritage.
“Our objective is to position Goa as a holistic destination,” said Shri Khaunte. “We are looking beyond the beaches and promoting experiences that connect with travelers on a deeper level—whether it’s through adventure, wellness, or culture.”
This message resonated strongly with the Omani audience, many of whom are looking for nearby travel destinations that offer immersive, family-friendly, and spiritually enriching experiences. Goa’s unique blend of Portuguese and Indian influences, serene hinterlands, spice plantations, churches, temples, and vibrant festivals make it an attractive alternative to more commercialized tourism destinations.
Focus on Sustainable and Regenerative Tourism
A central theme of the roadshow was Goa’s commitment to sustainable and regenerative tourism practices. Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, highlighted Goa’s plans to implement eco-tourism circuits, develop wellness hubs in the hinterlands, and support community-based tourism initiatives. These efforts aim to protect Goa’s natural beauty while offering travelers authentic and meaningful interactions with the local environment and culture.
“Our vision is to establish Goa as a global tourism hub that upholds sustainability at its core,” said Shri Naik. “We want to ensure that tourism growth contributes to local livelihoods and environmental preservation.”
The emphasis on regenerative tourism also aligns well with the values of Middle Eastern travelers, particularly those from Oman, who place high importance on wellness, spirituality, and environmental responsibility.
Diplomatic and Cultural Strengthening
The presence of Smt. Tavishi Bahl, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of India in Muscat, further elevated the importance of the event. In her address, she applauded the initiative and emphasized the growing cultural and tourism ties between India and Oman. The Indian diaspora in Oman, which numbers in the hundreds of thousands, provides a strong foundation for cross-cultural exchange and tourism promotion.
“Goa’s outreach to Oman is not just about tourism, it’s about building bridges of understanding, cooperation, and friendship,” she said. “We see immense potential for bilateral exchange in the realms of culture, education, and hospitality.”
Strategic Collaborations and Connectivity
One of the key goals of the roadshow was to enhance connectivity between Goa and the Gulf region. Currently, several direct flights operate between Goa and cities like Dubai and Doha, and Goa Tourism is actively engaging with airlines and travel partners to explore direct or enhanced connectivity with Muscat. Better air links would make travel more convenient for Omani tourists and open the doors for weekend getaways and short-haul holiday packages.
In addition, Goa Tourism and GTDC are working with Omani tour operators to develop customized travel packages that cater specifically to Middle Eastern travelers. These packages would focus on family-friendly resorts, halal food options, spiritual tours, and wellness retreats—making Goa more accessible and appealing to a broader demographic.
Shri Kuldeep Arolkar remarked, “The response from Oman’s travel trade has been overwhelmingly positive. We see tremendous potential for collaboration and are keen on establishing long-term relationships with partners in this region.”
Promoting MICE and Luxury Segments
Another area of interest for Goa Tourism is the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) segment. Goa already has world-class infrastructure for events, and the government is working on enhancing this further through investment in convention centers, resorts, and logistics services. The Middle East, particularly Oman, has a growing MICE market, and Goa sees an opportunity to attract corporate events, destination weddings, and luxury incentive travel.
The roadshow highlighted Goa’s unique offerings in this space, including luxury beachfront resorts, scenic heritage venues, and a growing network of professional event organizers. With the added charm of its tropical landscape and cultural richness, Goa is poised to become a top choice for MICE events from the Gulf.
Looking Ahead: A Stronger Global Presence
This roadshow in Oman is part of a broader international strategy to place Goa firmly on the global tourism map. Earlier efforts have included roadshows in Europe, Russia, and Southeast Asia, but the Middle East is now a primary focus due to its geographical proximity, affluent traveler base, and cultural affinity with India.
Goa’s efforts to engage meaningfully with the Omani market also reflect a broader shift in global tourism strategy—one that values targeted outreach, cultural sensitivity, and sustainable development. By understanding the preferences of specific markets and tailoring offerings accordingly, Goa is setting a new standard for how regional tourism boards can operate in an increasingly competitive global landscape.
As Shri Rohan Khaunte noted during the roadshow, “The future of tourism is not just about numbers. It’s about quality experiences, responsible growth, and meaningful connections. Goa is ready to lead the way.”
Conclusion: A Strategic Step Forward
The success of the Goa Tourism roadshow in Muscat signals a significant step in the region’s efforts to build stronger ties with the Middle East. With its focus on sustainability, cultural richness, and tailored experiences, Goa is positioning itself as more than just a beach destination. It is emerging as a thoughtfully curated, globally appealing, and culturally inclusive hub that welcomes travelers seeking more from their holidays.
By engaging with Omani travel professionals, strengthening diplomatic support, and introducing innovative tourism products, Goa is laying the groundwork for long-term success in one of the world’s most promising travel markets. The roadshow has opened doors—not just to new tourists, but to a new era of strategic tourism diplomacy.
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