Oman
The Big Interview :
Trevor McCartney
CMW spoke with OECC ’ s general manager to learn more about the impact the OECC has made on Muscat
T o understand how Oman stands as a MICE player in the region , CMW spoke to Trevor McCartney , general manager at Oman Exhibition & Convention Centre .
How does Oman fit as a MICE destination ? Despite the uncertainty in the world , people still need to meet and do business and continued growth in the Gulf has been encouraging . There is much more competition and new venues are opening up all the time but clients are also concerned about stability . Oman has a clear advantage here as it frequently ranks as one of the world ' s top 10 safest destinations .
What developments are in store ? Oman is an ideal destination for conventions , incentives , exhibitions , live events and meetings and the OECC is the jewel in the crown of an exciting project that is the product of an ambition to establish a new urban centre within Muscat . Situated in close proximity to the new airport and enjoying excellent transport connections to the city , Madinat Al Irfan will become a gateway .
What does the OECC offer ? The city will establish an integrated , sustainable and inclusive community , catering for different ages , income groups , and ethnicities . The centre offers a magnifi cent tiered theatre seating 3,200 people , an additional 450 person auditorium plus 20 meeting rooms , two ballrooms ,
hospitality suites and large exhibition space , matched with spacious foyer and registration areas , the latest in technology and a range of international and local food .
How has demand changed ? Oman is lucky ; the Omani people are highly educated and we have many experts in a wide range of fi elds who are already involved in associations . Before the OECC existed there was demand to come to Oman but these events could not be held due to the limited capacity in our existing venues . Now we have the venue and Oman can compete on a global stage , as a new and exciting venue to host large scale events in the GCC region .
10 CONFERENCE & MEETINGS WORLD