Doesn’t the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre stand as a testament to Oman’s vision? It aims to be a hub for global events. This impressive structure is more than just a building. It’s a symbol of Oman’s progress and its commitment to becoming a major player in the world of business and tourism.
The Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre or OCEC, is owned and was developed by the Oman Tourism Development Company. Its location is in the Seeb area of Muscat. It is a major business and tourism facility.
Imagine this area five years prior. Rodney Cox of the International Gas Union recalls his first visit to Oman. He saw only a construction site. Now it has transformed from “a hole in the ground to a truly magnificent venue”.
OCEC’s design is intended to inspire. Its architecture complements the natural environment. The Centre offers panoramic views. It is supported by leisure and hospitality facilities. This enhances Oman’s appeal. It is a hub for businesses and events. The OCEC is easily accessible from major roads and key destinations. This makes it ideal for hosting diverse events. These events include conferences, forums, concerts, and exhibitions.
The first phase of the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre project opened in June 2016. This included the exhibition halls. There are five halls providing 22,000 square meters of exhibition space. The second phase opened in June 2018. It included the convention center with a 3,200-seat auditorium and a 450-seat theater.
Consider the scale of events that the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre can accommodate. Halls 1 and 2 can seat over 10,000 people. The Grand Ballroom can host 1,100 guests for banquets. The Junior Ballroom accommodates 540. In total there are over 55 meeting space options. A multi-story car park offers a capacity for 4,000 vehicles.
The Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre also includes hotels. The Crowne Plaza hotel opened in December 2017.
OCEC has advanced audio-visual equipment. The audio-visual team are masters. They fully engage audiences. They evoke emotional responses.
The Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre is located four kilometers from Muscat International Airport. The design ensures a flow of meeting spaces. It also incorporates expansive concourse areas. These enable ease of large delegations. The floor-to-ceiling windows overlook landscaped gardens and water features.
As you stand here you can appreciate the vision of OCEC. It is an essential multi-event destination.