Muscat: Oman, with its rich sporting legacy and advantageous natural resources, is uniquely positioned to take advantage of the growing global sports market. On Tuesday, 29 April, at 11:00 am, leaders from the industry will come together at the Civil Aviation Authority Training Centre to discuss strategic prospects within this vibrant sector.
The upcoming 70-minute session of Tejarah Talks, titled ‘Game On: The Potential of Oman’s Sports Economy,’ will unite specialists knowledgeable about the nation’s competitive strengths and the latest trends in the world's ninth-largest industry, which has a staggering value of $2. 65 trillion.
The discussion will be led by Jamal Al Asmi, Executive Producer at Reality CG, featuring panelists such as Pankaj Khimji, Foreign Trade and International Cooperation Advisor from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP); Joe Rafferty, Events Director for Oman Sail; and Ali Al Ajmi, CEO of Sabco Sports.
Market opportunities will be a focal point of the conversation, particularly sports tourism, which generates an impressive $583 billion yearly for the global economy, alongside the burgeoning eSports market, currently valued at $6. 6 billion and boasting over 500 million viewers globally.
Promising potential is foreseen in the sustainable sports sector, estimated at $26. 2 billion, which is predicted to expand at a 7. 9% compound annual growth rate until 2032, particularly relevant as Oman works towards its Net Zero goal by 2050.
Discussion topics will cover Oman’s distinct, all-year-round sports amenities afforded by its varied landscapes and favorable climate for hosting sports tourism and events, as well as the enhancement of infrastructure via public-private partnerships and the development of career opportunities in sports management.
With a median demographic age of around 29 and internet access surpassing 95%, Oman’s population is well-suited for emergent sectors such as eSports.
The panel will also evaluate successful global examples, including the economic benefits accrued from Barcelona’s Olympic endeavors and Singapore’s innovative structure for its Sports Hub, developed through public-private partnerships.
These examples will provide invaluable insights for Oman’s strategic sports development. In addition to economic aspects, the discussion will also focus on the social significance of sports. Studies have shown that communities equipped with robust sports infrastructure tend to enjoy better social outcomes, while regular participation in physical activities significantly lowers national healthcare expenses.
Organized by the Oman Business Forum in collaboration with MoCIIP and supported by MHD, Nortal, Invest Oman Lounge, and Oman FM, the Tejarah Talks in April aims to deliver practical insights for investors, policymakers, and industry stakeholders who are keen to advance Oman’s sports sector in line with Vision 2040 goals.
