1. SMEs and the Tourism Sector

2. Introduction… -A. Degree in Travel & Tourism Management -Worked for Gulf Air in Bahrain & Oman (Reservation Agent – Holidays – Destination Leisure Marketing & Events) for 4+ years -Started Oman World Tourism in 2006 -4 years fully committed to develop the business -Other opportunities

3. OMAN WORLD TOURISM -Founded in 2006 -Limited Liability Company -DMC & Tourism Investment

4. The starting journey… -Started with a working capital of OMR20,000 in 2006 -Personal loan and 50% partnership -2 employees myself and Sales Manger - Focused on online marketing -Main focus on adventure holidays -In 2007 opened up the first internationally recognized Kite-Surfing Center in the GCC (Partnership with a German SME Hawaii- Dragon)

5. Main challenges… -Limited funding options in-country -National human recourses (Culture) -Tourism Infrastructure

6. -6 employees -Debt free company -Financially stable -Most forward-thinking DMC -100% safety record -Respected in the industry -The 2nd largest operator in the Australian Market Today…

7. Kite-Boarding Centers… 1.Muscat 2.Sawadi 3.Masirah Island Certification… 1.VDWS Basic 2.VDWS Pro 3.VDWS Free-Style 3 languages…

8. Where did Tourism take me in 11 years… -Established 2 known brands in Oman -Master Franchise of Gloria Jean’s Coffees in Oman -Secretary, Oman Sailing Committee & Member of the Events Committee on The Asian Sailing Federation