Oman Sail recently celebrated its 16th anniversary with an event at the Crowne Plaza Hotel – Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre. The celebration was held under the patronage of Dr. Hashil bin Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO of Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group). Dr. Khamis bin Sulaiman Al Jabri, CEO of Oman Sail, along with strategic partners, sponsors, and Oman Sail staff, all participated in the festivities, sharing in the success of Oman Sail over the past 16 years.
Founded as a national initiative aimed at reviving Oman’s maritime heritage and promoting the Sultanate of Oman globally through the sport of sailing, Oman Sail has consistently championed the Sultanate in the global sailing arena, boosted investment opportunities and the Omani economy, and focused on empowering Omani youth. These efforts have resulted in a series of impressive achievements, including winning international trophies, individual medals at youth and senior level, and hosting and organising continental and international events all across Oman to promote the nation’s capabilities as a major global sporting venue.
Dr. Khamis bin Salim Al Jabri, CEO of Oman Sail, expressed his delight at the accomplishments over the years. He said: “Oman Sail has achieved numerous international successes and hosted major continental and international events, enhancing Oman’s position as a global sports venue and organiser. It has also promoted Oman’s readiness to attract business and investments, and our activities and programs continue to make significant contributions to achieving 11 out of 12 national priorities outlined in Oman Vision 2040.”
Since its inception, Oman Sail has focused on translating a clear vision for success through several core pillars: sailing sports, tourism, commercial activities, health, and the environment. Each one emphasises developing team competencies and empowering people of all ages and abilities by encouraging them to practice sailing and develop personal skills and boost their employability. As a result, Oman has become a preferred destination for many global sailing regattas and attracts some of the world’s most prominent sailors to compete and train each year.
Dr. Al Jabri pointed out that these achievements and successes are clear proof of the efforts and high competency of the team. Each event has a positive impact on the community and makes a significant contribution to the country’s sustainable development goals.
Dr. Khamis bin Salim Al Jabri also highlighted Oman Sail’s commitment to partnering with the private sector and sharing the benefits from these events. A successful partnership enables Omani companies to expand their services to a broader international audience and capitalise on the networking and investment opportunities these events provide. To date, these opportunities have included operating various infrastructure types, such as hotels, resorts, and ports, stimulating the aviation sector by increasing the number of arrivals to Oman, raising hotel occupancy rates, and boosting the transportation sector. Additionally, events provide numerous small and medium enterprises the chance to showcase their products.
Throughout its journey, Oman Sail has also achieved exceptional successes which have contributed to the advancement of economic and social development. By harnessing sports to nurture young talents, supporting social, economic, and sports development efforts in Oman, Oman Sail has promoted the marine leisure tourism industry, and established Oman’s reputation on the international stage as a destination for sports tourism and inbound investment.
Dr. Al Jabri explained that Oman Sail implements a range of programs aimed at developing youth through sailing, enabling them to become champions by proudly representing Oman with distinction in regional and international competition.
