MoHT inaugurates meteorite corner in Muscat
This initiative aligns with the ministry's efforts to utilise geological heritage and enhance the tourism and cultural experience in the Sultanate of Oman.
The corner features a collection of rare meteorite samples, offering guests a unique opportunity to view them up close and learn about their history and scientific value. It also highlights Oman's commitment to preserving these meteorites as an important cultural legacy.
Among the exhibits is a distinctive sample from Jiddat Al Harasis 091, which represents the largest meteorite fall discovered in Oman to date. Its strewn field extends approximately 52 kilometres, with over 700 collected pieces totalling around 4,600 kilogrammes.
Documented scientific studies indicate that this fall at its original site occurred over 12,600 years ago.
The corner also includes a meteorite sample from Jiddat Al Harasis 073, classified as an L6 chondrite stony meteorite. This is considered the second-largest meteorite fall discovered in Oman so far. Scientific studies suggest that this meteorite travelled through the asteroid belt in space, weighing over 20 tonnes, and is estimated to have fallen at its original site 15,600 years ago, during the Palaeolithic era.
A total of 3,638 pieces from this fall have been documented, with an aggregate weight of 620.9 kilogrammes and a strewn field extending 25.8 kilometres.
The display of these meteorites aims to educate hotel guests, both local and international, about the significance of meteorites, their scientific and historical value, and the legal frameworks and legislations governing them under the Cultural Heritage Law.
This initiative emphasises meteorites as crucial evidence of the solar system's formation, while also showcasing Oman's efforts in collecting, preserving and studying meteorite samples.
This pioneering initiative represents a step towards fostering more partnerships between the government and private sectors to showcase Oman's unique natural treasures on diverse and modern platforms. It aligns with the country's vision to integrate culture and science into a comprehensive and holistic tourism experience. - ONA
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Times of Oman
12 hours ago
- Times of Oman
Oman registers four historical landmarks in Arab Register of Architectural, Urban Heritage
Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, has registered four historic landmarks in the Arab Register of Architectural and Urban Heritage. These include Al Hamoudah Mosque in the Wilayat of Jaalan Bani Bu Ali, the historic forts of Sohar and Nizwa, and Al Shawadhna Mosque in the ancient village of Al Aqr in the Wilayat of Nizwa. The registration took place during Oman's participation in the 10th meeting of the Observatory of Architectural and Urban Heritage in Arab States, held in the Lebanese Republic with the participation of several Arab countries. The Observatory of Architectural and Urban Heritage is one of the programs affiliated with the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (ALECSO). It focuses on documenting architectural and urban heritage in Arab states, promoting cooperation in preservation and conservation efforts, and facilitating the exchange of expertise. Additionally, it aims to establish joint policies to protect this heritage as a vital part of the Arab cultural identity. The inclusion of these four Omani landmarks reflects regional recognition of the Sultanate of Oman's standing in heritage protection and conservation. It also highlights the country's ongoing efforts to showcase its architectural and historical features at both the Arab and international levels. Al Hamoudah Mosque, locally known as the "Domes Mosque" in the Wilayat of Jaalan Bani Bu Ali in the South A'Sharqiyah Governorate, is one of the oldest mosques in the governorate. It is distinguished by its traditional architectural style, which embodies the essence of Omani Islamic architecture. The registration of Sohar and Nizwa Forts marks a significant addition. Sohar Fort, located in the North Al Batinah Governorate, is one of the oldest coastal fortresses in Oman and had played a pivotal role as an administrative and political center throughout different historical periods. Meanwhile, Nizwa Fort in the A'Dakhiliyah Governorate stands as a prominent symbol of Omani defensive architecture. It served as a hub for knowledge and governance in various historical eras and remains one of the most notable cultural and tourist landmarks in the Wilayat of Nizwa today. Al Shawadhna Mosque in the ancient village of Al Aqr in the Wilayat of Nizwa (A'Dakhiliyah Governorate) is renowned for the beauty of its gypsum mihrab and the intricate details of its architecture, exemplifying the characteristics of traditional religious architecture in Oman. Preserving historical heritage is a fundamental pillar of sustainable development and the reinforcement of national identity. This authentic cultural legacy opens doors for cultural tourism and strengthens Oman's image as a destination that blends authenticity with modernity, enhancing its standing locally, regionally, and globally.
Times of Oman
13 hours ago
- Times of Oman
Ministry restores historical landmarks in South Al Batinah
A'Rustaq: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism emphasized that the restoration of forts and castles plays a vital role in preserving Oman's cultural, historical, and architectural heritage, boosting tourism, revitalising local economies, and restoring these landmarks to their original splendor—making them attractive tourist destinations and creating investment opportunities for both public and private sectors. The Department of Heritage and Tourism in South Al Batinah Governorate is currently undertaking restoration projects at A'Rustaq Fort, Al Khasfah Tower, and Al Uwayd Tower, adhering to the highest technical standards while optimizing costs. Key measures include locally producing 'Sarooj" (traditional mortar) at a specialized ministry-supervised facility and sourcing high-quality imported 'Kandal" wood to ensure compliance with specifications, enhancing efficiency and reducing overall restoration costs. Dr. Al-Mu'tasim Nasser Al Hilali, Director of the Heritage and Tourism Department in South Al Batinah, stated that the ministry's primary objective in restoring historical sites is to safeguard this cultural legacy for future generations, as these landmarks serve as architectural testaments to Oman's rich history, particularly in their respective regions. He noted that each historical site reflects the architectural style of its era and carries documented and oral narratives, adding that heritage landmarks present investment opportunities to enhance visitor experiences and diversify cultural tourism in line with sector demands. Al Hilali highlighted that heritage and museum projects align with the ministry's vision to position Oman as a leader in national heritage management and a top sustainable tourism destination offering unique experiences.
Observer
a day ago
- Observer
Khareef tourism pushes hotel occupancy to new highs
SALALAH: Hotels and hospitality providers across Dhofar Governorate are reporting record-high occupancy rates during the ongoing Khareef Dhofar Season 2025, driven by favourable weather, enhanced infrastructure and rising regional interest. Industry sources confirmed that hotel bookings in Salalah and surrounding wilayats have surpassed 90 per cent since mid-July. Family resorts, boutique guesthouses and furnished apartments are operating at full capacity on weekends and public holidays. A surge in domestic travel, improved air connectivity and targeted marketing campaigns across the Gulf have all contributed to the uptick in tourism. The khareef season, which typically spans from late June to early September, continues to draw a steady stream of visitors from across Oman and neighbouring GCC countries. 'Compared to last year, we are seeing a marked increase in both length of stay and per-guest spending,' said an executive from a leading four-star hotel in Salalah. 'Families are arriving earlier and staying longer, with high demand for suites and sea-view rooms.' Demand has also spilled over into alternative accommodations such as serviced apartments, home rentals and eco-lodges, especially near Ittin, Al Mughsail and the Dhofar highlands. Mobile platforms offering short-term stays have reported record bookings and listings. Said al Maashani, who runs a family-operated mountain lodge, said, 'Visitors are looking for comfort and proximity to nature. We're fully booked until the end of August.' The hospitality boom has had a ripple effect on related sectors including car rentals, dining, tour guiding and outdoor leisure businesses. The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism attributes the strong season to early planning, robust promotion and infrastructure enhancements. Salalah Airport has added domestic and regional flights, while road improvements have eased access to tourist hotspots. Officials also highlighted the alignment of khareef 2025 with Oman Vision 2040.
