Oman is all set for the ITB Berlin opening ceremony with the slogan Beauty Has An Address. H.E. Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism of the Sultanate of Oman, will represent the host country. The event will take place at CityCube Berlin on the evening of 4 March 2024, starting at 6 pm. Around 3,000 invited guests, including prominent political and tourism industry figures, will have the opportunity to experience a vibrant and impressive showcase of Oman’s beauty and diverse offerings.

Kai Wegner, Berlin’s Governing Mayor, and Dieter Janecek, the Federal Government’s Coordinator for Maritime Economy and Tourism, will extend a welcome to the host country and attendees. The representation from the travel industry will include Julia Simpson, the president and CEO of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), and Zurab Pololikashvili, the Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism). ITB Berlin will be represented by Dr. Mario Tobias, the CEO of Messe Berlin.

The audience can expect an awe-inspiring journey through the diverse aspects of this country, which is split into three sections. The initial part will showcase the splendor of Oman, encompassing its breathtaking natural wonders, rich traditions, and elements that reflect the cultural heritage of the Sultanate of Oman. The second section will center around the advancement of Oman, emphasizing both its modernization efforts and the preservation of its cultural identity. It will touch upon topics such as religion, education, human rights, and art. Finally, in the third section titled ‘Vision 2040’, the Sultanate of Oman will unveil new perspectives, sustainable tourism development, and its global role.

Furthermore, a vibrant program will be presented by Omani vocalists and folk ensembles, in collaboration with the Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra. This captivating performance will showcase a blend of traditional Omani customs, melodies, and international music compositions. Notably, this marks the long-awaited return of the Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra to Germany after a 17-year hiatus. As one of the few symphony orchestras in the Arab World with a Western influence, it holds a unique position. Equally remarkable is the fact that all musicians in the orchestra have exclusively hailed from Oman since its inception.

Following the commencement ceremony, a reception will be hosted by the host nation at the CityCube Berlin, featuring delectable cuisines from the Sultanate of Oman.