English abstract
The Internet of Things (IoT) is revolutionizing various industries, including hospitality
by enabling smart, interconnected systems that enhance operational efficiency and
guest experiences. The use of IoT in the hospitality industry ranges from smart room
management to guest experience, providing ample room for creativity and enhanced
experiences. This exploratory study investigates the implementation of IoT in the
hospitality industry, focusing on the opportunities and challenges within the context of
Oman. As Oman seeks to diversify its economy through tourism, understanding the
role of IoT in enhancing the hospitality sector is crucial, not only for improving
guest experience but also for optimizing hotel operations and resource management.
The research aims to assess the level of understanding among hospitality service
providers, explore the potential opportunities IoT offers, and identify the challenges
associated with its implementation.
A qualitative approach was employed using semi-structured interviews with senior IT
staff members and managers from various hotels in Oman. The data were analyzed
using thematic analysis, structured around the TOE+H (Technology, Organization,
Environment, and Human) framework. Results indicate varying levels of IoT
adoption, with some hotels embracing advanced technologies while others remain
reliant on traditional methods. The study highlights significant opportunities for
enhancing guest experiences and operational efficiency through IoT, but also identifies
key challenges such as outdated infrastructure, security concerns, and dependence on
external vendors. The study provides practical implications to the stakeholders in the
hospitality industry, as a roadmap to understand the current status of IoT
adoption and its challenges, in order to raise awareness and enable laying the
foundation for more informed decisions on how to proceed with IoT implementation
in line with the broader objectives of Oman Vision 2040.
