| Visit Oman is thrilled to announce that the groundbreaking #HalfTimeForOman campaign has been awarded the esteemed ‘Bronze Travel & Lifestyle Campaign’ accolade at this year’s Influencer Marketing Awards (IMAs). The ceremony, which took place on 20 July 2023 at The Londoner Hotel in London, celebrated the innovative and impactful influencer marketing campaigns that authentically connect brands with consumers and deliver superior results.
The #HalfTimeForOman campaign, a pivotal component of the ‘Oman World Cup Programme,’ captured the hearts and imagination of football enthusiasts worldwide. During the halftime of every match of the World Cup 2022, the campaign provided individuals with the opportunity to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Oman. A total of 128 holidays were awarded throughout the tournament, each encompassing a seven-night stay for two at a top hotel in Oman, a pair of flight tickets, and a captivating sunset cruise along Muscat’s picturesque coastline.
Commenting on the #HalfTimeForOman campaign, a Spokesperson from Visit Oman said, “This award is a testament to the creative vision, dedication, and collaborative effort of everyone involved in bringing the #HalfTimeForOman campaign to life. We are thrilled to have provided people around the globe with the chance to experience Oman’s rich heritage, culture, and natural beauty. This recognition fuels our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences and fostering authentic connections through innovative initiatives.”
Complementing the success of the #HalfTimeForOman campaign was the immensely popular Football Fan Festival, which transformed the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC) gardens into a sprawling 9,000-square-meter fan village. Running for the duration of the World Cup, it captivated fans with an array of interactive games, live performances, diverse culinary delights, and a ‘Football Theatre’ with giant screens where all 64 matches of the World Cup are being broadcasted live. The Festival welcomed over 92,000 football enthusiasts, with the finals match between France and Argentina on 18 December 2022 drawing a record-breaking crowd of over 5,800 fans.
Building on this triumph, the Festival’s ‘Football Theatre’ was revived as the ‘Football Fan Arena’ for the 25th Arabian Gulf Cup. Once again located at the OCEC Gardens, the Arena broadcasted all matches of the 25th Arabian Gulf Cup live from 06 to 19 January 2023, providing a spirited and engaging space for fans and families to enjoy the tournament. With grandstand seating for up to 1,300 fans and three giant screens broadcasting matches, the Arena offered a captivating experience that captured the essence of the Arabian Gulf Cup.
Collectively, these initiatives have left an indelible mark on the nation’s football community, seamlessly blending sport, culture, and innovation. The recognition garnered by the #HalfTimeForOman campaign and the resounding success of the Football Fan Festival and Football Fan Arena underscore the nation’s commitment to enriching the lives of sports fans and creating lasting memories for all who visit.
