Image: Muscat Gulf Cup, Pranav21391, Public Domain
Oman’s sports economy came under the spotlight at the recent Tejarah Talks “Game On: The Potential of Oman’s Sports Economy.”
Visitors to the event heard that an ecosystem should be built to create seamless sport pathways from grassroots to elite, supported by public and private sectors.
A clear vision should be set with a global sporting calendar and targeted infrastructure investments, including a big bang event in which Oman should showcase itself to the world through a major sporting event like hosting the Formula One.
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Creative Thought Leader & Storyteller, Jamal Al-Asmi, said in a LinkedIn post, “So it turns out that the global sports industry is no game. It’s a whopping $2.65 trillion powerhouse, ranking as the 9th largest industry worldwide and growing at a staggering 6.3% annually. But in a typical fashion, Oman isn’t just chasing numbers.
“We’re talking about an ecosystem that spans media rights, sponsorships, digital engagement, and community health and it all has to be in line with the country’s ethos.
“The 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar generated over $7.5 billion in revenue – imagine what Oman can achieve by playing to its strengths which are not to be played around with.”
HE pankaj khimji recounted how Oman, with its newly upgraded Al Amerat Cricket Stadium, co-hosted the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2021 – an event that not only put Oman on the global cricket map but also showcased the country’s ability to deliver world-class experiences.
On the back of this, local businesses thrived, SMEs got a boost, and youth participation in cricket soared, with over 700 Omani students now playing cricket in schools and growing.
Joe Rafferty, Event Business Development Director at Oman Sail, highlighted Oman’s competitive edge: its people.
International organisers praised the professionalism, hospitality, and operational excellence of Omani teams.
Rafferty emphasized that while infrastructure matters, it’s the spirit and skill of the Omani people that win trust and repeat business.
He also noted that sports tourists spend 1.6 times more than average visitors – a massive opportunity for the tourism sector.
Ali Alajmi, CEO of Sabco Sports, the mastermind behind over 150 sports events in Oman, brought the numbers.
He said Sabco Sports has engaged over 100,000 participants and 28-30 sponsors for events like the Muscat Marathon, which now attracts 13,000 runners.
He stressed the importance of mass participation events-not just for elite athletes, but for building a healthy, active, and connected society.
Sponsorship now makes up 70-75% of event revenue, proving the private sector’s growing confidence in Oman’s sports ecosystem. The real golden ticket to be had though is in media rights.
To build a winning sports economy the audience heard that:
- Public-Private collaboration Is essential. Oman’s success stories-like the Muscat Marathon and ICC World Cup are built on partnerships.
- Mass participation drives the base events that get thousands moving, from school competitions to city marathons, and are the foundation for elite talent and a healthier society. This base also attracts sponsors and builds a culture of lifelong sports engagement.
- Infrastructure, yes-but people first – While stadiums and facilities matter, it’s the operational excellence, hospitality, and passion of Oman’s people that set the country apart. Training, upskilling, and empowering local talent is crucial for long-term success.
- Sports Tourism and Economic Diversification – Sports tourists are high-value visitors. By leveraging Oman’s natural assets-coastlines, mountains, and heritage sports can carve a unique niche in the region and beyond.
- Entrepreneurship and Innovation – From e-sports to sports tech start-ups, Oman’s young, tech-savvy population is ready to lead. The panel encouraged entrepreneurs to seize opportunities, supported by evolving regulations and funding models.
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