Saturday 29 / August / 2026
SALALAH: Oman will host a specialised three-day workshop on “Halal Tourism” next Tuesday in Salalah, bringing together government and private-sector organisations involved in tourism, hospitality, food services and conformity assessment.
The workshop is organised by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, in cooperation with the Standards and Metrology Institute for Islamic Countries, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and Omran Group.
The event forms part of Oman's efforts to strengthen its national halal system, develop technical expertise and tap into the expanding opportunities of the global Islamic economy, while diversifying tourism products and improving the competitiveness of Omani services.
Participants will examine international halal standards, Oman's national halal system and standardisation framework, halal certification and the wider quality infrastructure established within the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
A key focus will be the halal tourism market, including its development across OIC countries, opportunities for halal certification of restaurants, and requirements for halal food and tourism services.
The programme will also cover practical requirements for establishments that prepare, store and serve halal food and beverages, supported by case studies and practical applications designed to help businesses understand and implement relevant standards.
The workshop targets a broad range of stakeholders, including tourism and hospitality companies, restaurants, hotels, airlines, logistics providers, inspection bodies, laboratories and halal certification organisations.
Imad bin Khamis al Shukaili, Director General of Standards and Metrology at the ministry, said the workshop aims to build national capabilities and improve understanding of halal tourism standards while benefiting from international experience.
He noted that halal extends beyond food to sectors including tourism, hospitality, logistics, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and financial services, requiring an integrated national system based on standards, accreditation and conformity assessment.
The initiative supports the objectives of Oman Vision 2040, particularly economic diversification, attracting investment and opening new markets for Omani products and services.
Dr Saeed bin Sultan Al Busaidi, Director of the Omani Accreditation Center, said accreditation is a key pillar of a reliable halal system because it verifies the competence of conformity assessment bodies and strengthens confidence in halal certificates.
He added that an integrated national halal system would enhance confidence in Omani products and services and facilitate their entry into international markets.
Halal tourism is emerging as a significant segment of the global Islamic economy, driven by demand for travel experiences that cater to Muslim visitors, including halal accommodation, restaurants, food, transportation and tourism activities.
The ministry said its planned National Halal System Regulations will establish clear requirements and procedures for government and private entities operating in halal-related sectors, helping improve quality, protect consumers and strengthen the competitiveness of national products and services.
The ministry is also working with relevant authorities to facilitate the import and export of halal products and services and streamline the registration of conformity assessment bodies through the Oman Business platform.
