The energy industry has found its perfect match in a world-class event destination.
In December 2024, Oman hosted the 18th Annual GPCA Forum, the flagship event of the Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA), held for the first time in the country’s history. Taking place at the Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC) in Muscat, the forum addressed a central industry theme: Driving Sustainable Advancement for Global Progress. As the MENA region’s leading petrochemical and chemical industry event, it brought together global experts and professionals to drive the sector forward.
This was one of the most successful international energy gatherings held at the OCEC, spanning the Madinat Al Irfan Theatre and the venue’s extensive exhibition space. Speaking with Fuad Al Balushi, director of sales at the OCEC, it was clear the event succeeded thanks to strong collaboration between local partners and the venue.
“The event has been running for 18 years, but at the OCEC, it took on a whole new dimension. For the first time, we transformed the format by hosting it in our first-class Madinat Al Irfan Theatre instead of a traditional exhibition hall and conference rooms. This completely changed how delegates engaged with speakers and content,” said Al Balushi.
Fuad Al Balushi
This shift reflects OCEC’s focus on helping organisers deliver impactful experiences. Creativity and adaptability are central to the venue’s operations. “While using the theatre was a new proposition for the event, it came alive thanks to our AV department’s expertise, our events team’s ability to tailor the space, and the seamless delegate journey throughout the venue,” Al Balushi explained.
The event drew over 1,800 international delegates, out of 2,790 total attendees. It featured several firsts, including the inaugural GPCA Startup Nexus, where 10 innovative startups showcased advances in the circular economy and climate action. It also hosted the first in-person gathering of the Women in Chemicals Network in the Middle East. With Oman’s leading company, OQ, as a key partner, many local professionals took part and contributed expertise to the discussions.
“What makes Oman a strong destination for these events is its wealth of talent, expertise, and industry knowledge,” said Al Balushi. “Thanks to the pioneering work of companies like OQ and other stakeholders in Oman’s oil and gas sector, we can offer cutting-edge insights into energy transition technologies and policy development.”
Oman’s ongoing economic diversification strategy, including investment in renewable energy and Green Hydrogen, has earned international attention. In a rapidly changing environment, new opportunities and challenges arise daily, enriching conversations at conferences like GPCA.
Muscat Global Knowledge Dialogue
Is Oman positioning itself as a premier destination for international energy events? Al Balushi believes so. “Choosing your event destination is about more than just the venue. It’s about finding a destination that matches your level of expertise, content, and innovation. In Oman, we have the right local partners and experts to add real value to any international energy event.”
Organisers also value destinations that offer immersive experiences for delegates. GPCA attendees had the chance to explore Muscat through networking dinners and sideline events at venues such as the Al Bustan Ritz-Carlton Hotel, originally built for the Gulf Cooperation Council Summit in the 1980s and located between the city’s mountains and coast.
“Although our venue is a core strength when bidding for international events, thanks to its proximity to the airport, world-class hotels within walking distance, and our sustainability commitments, we recognise that Oman itself is the winning factor. It offers breathtaking landscapes and authentic experiences that truly connect delegates to the destination. Many attendees return as leisure travellers,” Al Balushi added.
Beyond its impact on the industry, the GPCA Forum also benefited Oman’s broader economy, from hotels to transport providers and local service companies. This reflects a wider goal for the OCEC: understanding the full value of the events it hosts, whether international or domestic.
While the event shows how a venue can adapt to host a major energy conference, it also signals that Oman is well placed to become a key destination for energy events in the years ahead.
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