1st International Conference for Academics and Professionals on Tourism and Hospitality

Department of Business Studies

Report on Presentations at the 1st International Conference for Academics and Professionals on Tourism and Hospitality (ICAPTH), UTAS Salalah 

The 1st International Conference for Academics and Professionals on Tourism and Hospitality (ICAPTH) was held at UTAS Salalah on the 17th, 18th, and 19th of February 2025. The conference provided a platform for researchers, academics, and industry professionals to discuss key developments and emerging trends in the tourism and hospitality sector. Several research papers were presented, contributing valuable insights into sustainable tourism, digital marketing, and career development in Oman’s tourism industry. 

Dr. Preeti Bhaskar and Dr. Habiba Al Mughairi presented their study, Leveraging Social Media to Boost Oman's Tourism: A Comprehensive Analysis of Motivating and Inhibiting Factors. This research examined the impact of social media on tourism promotion in Oman, focusing on factors that encourage or discourage travelers from sharing their experiences online. By analyzing these dynamics, the study offered valuable insights for tourism marketers and policymakers to optimize Oman's digital tourism strategy and enhance online engagement. 

Dr. Abdullah Al Azri, Dr. Nithya Ramachandran, and Dr. Edukondala Rao presented their research titled Leveraging Public-Private Partnerships for Sustainable Tourism Development in Oman: A Stakeholder Perspective. The study explored the role of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in fostering sustainable tourism in Oman, analyzing stakeholder perspectives and identifying key success factors. The paper also provided policy recommendations to strengthen collaboration between the government and private sector, ultimately supporting long-term sustainability in the tourism industry. 

Another paper, Self-Development as a Catalyst for Career Growth: Insights from Oman's Tourism Industry, was presented by Marwan Al-Shidhani, Safa Al-Shidhani, Nasreen Al-Badowi, and Dr. Preeti Bhaskar. This research highlighted the significance of self-development in career progression within the tourism industry, emphasizing the role of skills enhancement, training programs, and continuous learning. The findings underscored the need for industry-specific training to improve employability and professional growth among tourism professionals. 

The conference facilitated meaningful discussions on sustainable tourism practices, digital engagement strategies, and career development in Oman’s tourism sector. The presented studies provided valuable recommendations that can inform both policy and industry practices, contributing to the growth and sustainability of the tourism and hospitality industry in Oman.