AGP Executive Report

Tourism Investment: Oman’s Urban, Home & Building Expo reported agreements worth more than RO550 million, including a deal exceeding RO400 million for the Modana integrated tourism complex in Dhofar. Heritage: Oman and Italy signed an agreement to share expertise in conservation and museums, with talks covering development of the Oman Maritime Museum and better visitor experiences at heritage sites. Sailing: More than 100 sailors are expected in Mussanah for Race Week from October 15–21, alongside the Arab Women’s Sailing Championship. Air Connectivity: Air India Express plans up to 135 daily flights to West Asia this winter, including services to Muscat, as it expands links between India and the region.

Heritage Links: Oman and Italy signed an agreement to cooperate on heritage and museums, including conservation, archaeological research and training. Talks also explored Italian expertise for the Oman Maritime Museum and improving visitor experiences at heritage sites. Tourism Infrastructure: Oman’s urban development exhibition, running through Oct. 8, is showcasing regional projects and investment. In Al Dakhiliyah, developments include Nizwa’s 140,000-square-metre Interior Square and the Jebel Shams waterfront, intended to strengthen the area’s tourism appeal. Sailing Events: Oman Sail is preparing to welcome more than 100 competitors to Mussanah Race Week on Oct. 15–21, alongside the third Arab Women’s Sailing Championship, with about 30 sailors expected. Air Connectivity: Air India Express’ winter schedule will offer up to 135 daily departures linking 23 Indian cities with 12 West Asian gateways, including Muscat, expanding travel options between India and Oman.

Aviation & Safety: Oman-linked headlines dominated as Flydubai Flight FZ1073 was hit by an alleged cockpit attack, with reports saying the co-pilot planned to crash into Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport or a tower; passengers and off-duty pilots helped stop the attacker, and the aircraft made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia while Captain Smit Machchhar is reported to be making steady progress after serious injuries. Oman Tourism & Development: Oman signed major Urban October 2026 deals worth over RO 1bn, including housing and integrated tourism projects, plus an agreement to transform Port Sultan Qaboos waterfront in Muttrah into a multi-phase integrated destination. Heritage & Partnerships: Oman and Italy explored heritage and tourism investment ties in Florence, while Oman and Kazakhstan pushed deeper cooperation during Sultan Haitham’s visit, including aviation, trade, digital links and tourism MoUs. Regional Travel Context: With Strait of Hormuz risks continuing, Gulf oil exports are recovering but shipping costs and security frictions remain—an indirect reminder for travellers and tourism operators watching regional stability.

Oman–Kazakhstan State Visit: Sultan Haitham bin Tariq met Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in Astana, with talks spanning energy, mining, transport, logistics, food security, tourism, tech/AI, and investment; five agreements and 10 MoUs were signed, including air transport and an Oman–Kazakhstan Business Council. Aviation Security Shock for the Region: The Flydubai Flight FZ1073 cockpit attack continues to ripple across travel—reports say Israel scrambled jets and was ready to shoot down the aircraft in a possible 9/11-style scenario, while UAE/US officials debate links and motives; Emirates has suspended codeshares to Tel Aviv and Gulf air routes face fresh delays. World Bank on Regional Travel Impact: The World Bank cut its 2026 Middle East growth forecast, citing Iran-war pressure on energy flows and knock-on effects for tourism, aviation, and logistics. Oman Tourism & Events: Snow Oman announced winners of the Ice Warrior Challenge, highlighting Oman’s winter sports tourism. Travel Industry Updates: Air India Express expands Winter 2026 West Asia routes, and SAS EuroBonus expands status matches for frequent flyers.

Aviation & Safety: Oman-linked Flydubai cockpit attack remains the week’s biggest travel shock. Reports say the Omani co-pilot Hamam al-Hammami planned a crash on Israel’s Ben Gurion airport for months, using a crash axe after asking the captain to pray; UAE and Israeli officials describe it as a terrorist act, with investigations widening to vetting and security lapses across Oman, the UAE and Israel. Travel Policy: Oman published rules for a one-year tourist visit visa for eligible nationalities, including passport validity, document requirements, and the need to apply while outside Oman. Tourism & Heritage: Grand Mosque in Bahrain is seeing visitor numbers recover after a slump tied to regional tensions, while Oman’s Bahla Heritage Market reopens after a RO 477,000 restoration to revive traditional shops and tourism. Real Estate & Events: Urban October 2026 kicked off in Muscat with deals worth over RO 1 billion, including housing and tourism projects, and Oman’s Duqm Waterfront investment meeting reviewed hospitality and coastal development plans. Sports: Oman’s men’s volleyball team begins the Arab Championship in Jordan against Algeria, while Dhofar hosted the Dhofar International Arabian Horse Championship to boost equestrian tourism. Regional Travel Risk: Houthis warned airlines to avoid Saudi airspace as Yemen conflict escalates, adding fresh uncertainty for Middle East flight planning.

Aviation Security & Travel Safety: Oman-linked flydubai Flight FZ1073 incident keeps escalating as reports say the Omani co-pilot Hamam al-Hammami planned the attack before being hired, aiming to crash into Ben Gurion Airport or a Tel Aviv target after incapacitating the captain; UAE prosecutors called it a “terrorist attack,” while passengers and crew helped avert disaster and the aircraft landed in Saudi Arabia. Aviation Scrutiny: New questions are being raised over screening and how crew details were shared with Israel ahead of the flight, prompting Israel to order a security review of international flights. Oman Tourism & Property Development: Oman’s Home & Building Expo and World Habitat Day 2026 kicked off in Muscat under “Urban October,” with deals worth over RO 1 billion, including agreements tied to residential areas and an integrated tourism complex. Oman Investment & Business: Oman’s Golden Residency programme is open for foreign investors and business owners meeting six eligibility conditions, including investing, property in tourism zones, and employing Omani nationals. Oman Aviation Investment: Oman’s Civil Aviation Investment Forum highlighted opportunities around Muscat, Salalah and Sohar airports, airport cities, logistics and free zones aligned with National Aviation Strategy 2040. Oil & Travel Costs: Middle East crude exports (excluding Iran) reportedly returned near pre-war levels, but with more shipments bypassing the Strait of Hormuz—good news for supply, yet jet fuel and prices remain a concern for travelers.

Aviation Security Shock: Israel’s PM Benjamin Netanyahu ordered a sweeping security review of foreign flights after an alleged cockpit attack on Flydubai Flight FZ1073, with an Omani co-pilot accused of trying to crash the plane into Ben Gurion or other targets. Cross-Country Scrutiny: Australia opened a counterterrorism probe into the co-pilot’s links to Melbourne and RMIT, while UAE and Israeli officials continue examining how he cleared checks despite prior concerns. Oman in the Spotlight: Reports say Oman had removed him from flying duties over extremism worries, raising fresh questions for travelers about aviation screening. Tourism & Culture: Oman’s OCEC launched an Art and Culture Season in Muscat with concerts, theatre and exhibitions, aiming to boost business and leisure tourism. Travel Safety Alert: Tourists were fined in Oman after footage showed disturbing nesting sea turtles at Ras Al Hadd. Regional Travel Mood: Gulf Cup final set as UAE beat Oman 1-0, with fans snapping up Jeddah travel seats fast.

Aviation Security Shock: Flydubai Flight FZ1073 (Dubai–Tel Aviv) was diverted to Saudi Arabia after an alleged cockpit attack by Omani co-pilot Hamam al-Hammami, who used a crash axe to stab Indian captain Smit Machchhar and attempted to seize control; passengers and crew restrained the suspect and helped stabilize the plane. Oman Link Under Scrutiny: Reports say al-Hammami was previously barred from flying in Oman over extremist concerns, raising fresh questions about how he got cleared to operate an international route. International Probe Widens: Australia’s counter-terror teams are investigating his links after he studied there on a student visa; UAE-led inquiries continue, while Israel’s transport authorities say they don’t run intelligence background checks on foreign crews. New Details From Onboard: Videos show the restrained co-pilot with passengers insisting he be handed only to police; a mother onboard described the terrifying chaos and not knowing which child to hug first. Regional Travel Disruption: UAE authorities and airlines moved to suspend or cancel Israel-bound services after the incident, with delays and cancellations reported from Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Terror Threats: Al-Qaeda-linked messaging called for copycat attacks on planes carrying Americans and Israelis.

Aviation Security Shock: UAE prosecutors say flydubai Flight FZ1073 was targeted in a “terrorist act” after Omani co-pilot Hamam al-Hammami allegedly attacked the captain with a crash axe and tried to seize controls, sending the jet into a steep dive before passengers and crew helped stop him and land safely in Saudi Arabia. Oman Link Under Scrutiny: Reports say al-Hammami had been barred from flying in Oman over extremist concerns, raising fresh questions about screening and how he was cleared to operate. Australia Follow-Up: Australian Federal Police confirmed a Victorian counter-terrorism team is investigating possible Australian links, including claims he studied in Australia. New Captain Details: Injured captain Smit Machchhar says the attacker stood up to “pray” before striking, and he opened the cockpit door twice to let others in. Tourism Rule Reminder (Oman): Oman’s Environment Authority took legal action after a viral sea-turtle encounter in Ras Al Hadd, warning visitors not to disturb wildlife. Local Events: Dhofar’s Mirbat launched the Dhofar International Arabian Horse Beauty Championship, drawing international-standard competition.

Aviation Security Shock: The UAE prosecutor general confirmed the Flydubai cockpit attack on flight FZ1073 was an attempted “terrorist attack,” with the co-pilot identified as Omani national Hamam al-Hammami allegedly using a cockpit crash axe to attack Captain Smit Machchhar and try to seize control, after which passengers and crew subdued him and the plane made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. Oman Link Under Scrutiny: Multiple reports say al-Hammami had been barred from flying in Oman over extremist-view concerns and was later hired by Flydubai, raising fresh questions about screening and how he reached the cockpit. Hero Pilot Update: Machchhar is recovering in hospital in Abu Dhabi, with UAE leaders praising his courage after he managed to open the cockpit door despite injuries. Digital Extremism Claims: Investigators are examining physical and digital material, including social media posts reportedly referencing al-Qaeda figures. Diplomacy & Travel Context: Oman’s Sultan Haitham is set to visit Kazakhstan to expand cooperation, while the wider region continues to feel travel disruption from the incident. Sports Tourism: Hong Kong Sixes returns in late October/early November 2026 with Oman among the 12 international teams.

Aviation Security & Oman: The Omani co-pilot accused in the Flydubai Dubai-to-Tel Aviv cockpit attack has been identified as Hamam Al-Hammami, with reports saying Oman previously barred him from flying over alleged extremist views after concerns linked to time spent in Syria; he was also reportedly removed from an Oman Air training role and later hired by Flydubai, raising fresh questions about checks. Investigation Updates: Israeli officials are expected to question him after he was transferred to the UAE following detention in Saudi Arabia; reports also claim “Free Palestine” material was found among his belongings and investigators are probing possible radicalisation and motive. Travel Disruption: UAE cancelled flights to Israel and Israel-UAE repatriation flights were arranged for stranded passengers as the probe continues. Oman Tourism & Wildlife Protection: A viral sea-turtle “riding” incident at Ras Al Hadd has triggered outrage and legal action, with authorities moving to hold tourists accountable for disturbing protected wildlife. Regional Risk Watch: Shipping monitors warned the Strait of Hormuz remains a high-risk area amid ongoing tensions, with navigation interference and possible mining activity.

Aviation & Safety: Israel says it will start repatriation flights for passengers stranded in the UAE after the Flydubai FZ1073 cockpit attack, though some services were delayed when the UAE withdrew landing clearance for El Al—leaving thousands facing longer waits. Oman in the Spotlight: Investigators are scrutinising how an Omani co-pilot was able to operate the Israel-bound route despite restrictions, with Israel probing a possible “loophole” and reporting the suspect held no second nationality. Security Fallout: The UAE has labelled the incident an “act of terrorism,” while new claims point to “Free Palestine” material found among the attacker’s belongings, as aviation screening and cockpit security protocols face renewed scrutiny. Tourism Impact: Gulf tourism leaders warn the incident could further dent visitor confidence amid ongoing regional travel volatility. Regional Travel: Nepal named its squad for an ICC CWC League-2 tri-series in Oman starting Oct 7, with matches against Canada and Oman.

Aviation Security & Oman Links: Israel-bound Flydubai flight FZ1073 was diverted to Saudi Arabia after an alleged cockpit stabbing by an Omani co-pilot; passengers and crew wrestled control as the jet plunged, and Israeli PM Netanyahu said the attacker showed “Islamist radical indoctrination” while the UAE investigates possible terror links and the co-pilot was transferred to the UAE. US–Iran Tensions: US President Trump said investigators are looking into whether Iran was involved and warned Iran would be “hit very hard” if a link is confirmed. Maritime Risk in the Region: Iran’s Strait of Hormuz authority said three hit Emirati tankers were on its non-compliance list, as shipping disruptions and oil-flow recovery remain in focus. Oman Tourism & Travel Safety: Canada urged citizens to avoid all travel to Iraq and advised against non-essential travel to Oman and several other countries amid volatility. Counterterror Case Involving Oman Travel: A US DOE engineer from Richland, Washington, Ashton Ellaboudy, was arrested for allegedly trying to aid Iran-backed Houthis, including a trip via Oman to Yemen and purchases of drone and explosive-related materials. Oman–Tanzania Media Ties: Oman and Tanzania signed a media cooperation MoU to run for 12 months, including training and exchange visits.

Aviation Security Shock: A flydubai Boeing 737 (FZ1073) on the Dubai–Tel Aviv route was forced to divert to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, after a cockpit stabbing and a rapid plunge; Israeli officials say the Omani co-pilot attacked Captain Smit Machchhar, who was seriously injured but managed to unlock the cockpit door as passengers and crew restrained the attacker. Oman Link Under Scrutiny: Israel is seeking extradition of the Omani co-pilot, while the UAE has opened a judicial investigation into possible terrorist intent, prior planning, or outside direction; questions also remain about how the crew member was cleared for an Israel-bound flight. Global Spotlight on a Hero: Indian and Israeli leaders praised Machchhar’s actions; reports say he is in stable condition in Saudi Arabia. Oman Aviation Update: SalamAir named Eng. Yaqoob Al Kiyumi as its new CEO, tasking him with driving the airline’s next growth phase and expanding connectivity. Tourism Safety Reminder: Oman’s turtle protection rules are again in the spotlight after viral “sea turtle riding” incidents triggered legal action and public backlash.

Oman Air & Khareef Tourism: Oman Air boosted Salalah capacity by 16% for the 2026 Khareef season, carrying about 270,000 passengers between mid-June and mid-September, with peak August seeing up to 15 daily flights and extra 787-9 services; the airline also launched a Dubai–Salalah service in July and will keep it running beyond Khareef to support Dhofar as a year-round destination. Hospitality Expansion in Oman & Region: Millennium & Copthorne MENAT unveiled a 29-project pipeline totaling 11,736 hotel and residence units across six markets, including Oman, with openings slated for 2027–2029—part of a wider push to grow through an owner-operator model. Travel Safety & Aviation Security: A Dubai–Tel Aviv flydubai flight (FZ1073) diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, after a violent cockpit incident in which Israeli officials allege an Omani co-pilot stabbed the captain and attempted to crash the aircraft; passengers and crew reportedly intervened, and Israel later suspended flydubai flights for six days while investigations continue. Viral Wildlife Backlash in Oman: Ukrainian tourists faced legal action after a viral video showed them riding an egg-laying sea turtle at Ras Al Hadd, sparking public outrage and calls for stronger enforcement around protected marine life.

Wildlife & Tourism Safety: Oman’s Environment Authority says it has taken legal action after a Ukrainian influencer went viral for sitting on a protected sea turtle at Ras Al Hadd, urging visitors to avoid touching, approaching, or disturbing nesting turtles. Aviation Shock for the Region: A Flydubai Dubai–Tel Aviv flight (FZ1073) diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, after emergency signals during an alleged cockpit attack involving a stabbing; Israeli officials described it as a potential terror incident, while passengers say they saw blood and heard screams. Regional Transport Boost: Etihad Rail launched passenger services between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with fares starting from Dh39 and daily departures, adding a new rail option for Gulf travellers. Oman in the Spotlight: Oman was named in Lonely Planet’s 2027 “Best for Arabian Hospitality” list, highlighting its landscapes and visitor warmth. Travel Trade & Education: Indian Schools Oman announced AVENIR 2026, a two-day career and higher-education expo in Muscat with 25+ institutions from Oman, India and the UAE.