logo
Dhofar: A Marvel of Natural History exhibition opens in Salalah

Dhofar: A Marvel of Natural History exhibition opens in Salalah

Muscat Dailya day ago
By OUR CORRESPONDENT
Salalah – An exhibition called 'Dhofar: A Marvel of Natural History' opened at Land of Frankincense Museum in Salalah on Sunday, organised by Ministry of Heritage and Tourism in cooperation with the Natural History Museum in Muscat.
Inaugurated by Abdullah bin Ali al Amri, Chairman of Environment Authority, it will run till August 31.
The exhibition highlights Dhofar's mountainous and marine environments and its unique wildlife found in wilayats across the governorate. It also features a scientific collection showcasing the natural history of the region.
Osama bin Mohammed al Rawas, Director of the Land of Frankincense Museum, said, 'The exhibition aims to raise awareness on environmental protection and the importance of preserving natural resources, while providing an educational and entertainment platform for visitors of all ages.'
The exhibition is taking place during khareef giving visitors an opportunity to explore Dhofar in its element. 'It also consolidates the governorate's position as a global tourist destination, while supporting Omani identity, documenting local natural heritage, and allowing opportunities for scientific research and cooperation with academic and community institutions,' Rawas added.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Oman grants visa-free entry to Armenian citizens
Oman grants visa-free entry to Armenian citizens

Muscat Daily

time2 hours ago

  • Muscat Daily

Oman grants visa-free entry to Armenian citizens

Muscat – Oman has included citizens of the Republic of Armenia in its list of countries exempt from entry visa, a move announced during the fifth round of political consultations held in Yerevan on Tuesday. The talks were led by H E Sheikh Khalifa bin Ali al Harthy, Undersecretary for Political Affairs in Foreign Ministry, and Vahan Kostanyan, Armenia's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs. H E Sheikh Khalifa welcomed Armenia's decision to open a resident embassy in Muscat and expressed appreciation for Armenia's recent move to exempt Omani citizens from tourist visa requirements. He informed the Armenian delegation about Oman's reciprocal decision to grant visa-free entry to Armenian nationals. The discussions also covered ways to expand bilateral cooperation across various spheres, including trade, cargo shipment, air communication, IT, education, science, culture and tourism. Both sides exchanged views on regional and international issues of common interest. H E Sheikh Khalifa bin Ali al Harthy, Undersecretary for Political Affairs in Foreign Ministry In July, Oman's Foreign Ministry announced that Omanis would be exempt from visas when travelling to Armenia, effective July 1, 2025. Under the new policy, Omanis can stay in Armenia for up to 180 days within a one-year period without needing a prior visa. The exemption aims to boost tourism, business exchanges and cultural ties between the two nations. Earlier in April, the Armenian Cabinet approved the opening of a resident embassy in Oman, highlighting the dynamic growth of Armenia's relations with Gulf countries and deepening of friendly ties with Oman. The Armenian foreign ministry acknowledged Oman's balanced foreign policy and neutral stance in regional matters, which it credits for fostering dialogue and cooperation among regional powers. The visa exemption and diplomatic developments mark a significant step in enhancing the strategic partnership between Oman and Armenia, opening new avenues for economic and cultural collaboration.

Traffic tests khareef visitors, but Dhofar keeps moving
Traffic tests khareef visitors, but Dhofar keeps moving

Muscat Daily

time3 hours ago

  • Muscat Daily

Traffic tests khareef visitors, but Dhofar keeps moving

Salalah – Khareef has once again transformed Dhofar, luring visitors from across Oman, the GCC and parts of Europe. Cool monsoon winds, mist-covered hills and lush landscapes are drawing thousands each week to popular sites such as Wadi Darbat, Mughsail and Prophet Ayub's Tomb. With the seasonal surge in tourists, traffic congestion has become a familiar challenge. The number of vehicles on key routes has steadily increased in recent years, but swift intervention by Royal Oman Police (ROP) has kept delays to a minimum. Police personnel are stationed at major junctions, clearing blockages quickly ensuring traffic flows smoothly. 'Sometimes the cars are bumper-to-bumper, especially near Wadi Darbat,' said Ahmed Khalfan, an Omani bus driver. 'But the police are everywhere and they clear the way fast. This keeps tourists happy and our schedules on track. It's true there has been more traffic in the last few years.' Cars can often be seen winding slowly down roads bordered by greenery. Ambulances are stationed at strategic points to deal with emergencies. At Wadi Darbat and Mughsail, where parking is limited, buses drop passengers about a kilometre from the main sites. Authorities have arranged buggy rides for those who need assistance, a service welcomed by families with children and elderly members. 'I didn't expect to see so many people here,' said Sara Khan, a tourist from Dubai. 'But even with the crowds, it's very organised. The buggies are a great help; my parents didn't have to walk the whole way.' With more promotions, visitor numbers have grown each khareef. 'I came last year and this year again,' said David Johnson, from Abu Dhabi. 'There's definitely more traffic now, but the police seem ready for it. I never felt stuck for long. Last year, the crowd built up in the evenings, but this time people are here for most of the day.' For many, the slow-moving stretches are part of the journey. 'We took a bus from Muscat,' said Arunima Menon. 'Yes, there were slow patches, but nothing unbearable. Once you see the green hills, you forget the delays. People were patient and there was no misbehaviour, impatience, road rage or even honking. Everyone understood and cooperated.'

Khareef Dhofar unveils  heritage experiences
Khareef Dhofar unveils  heritage experiences

Observer

time4 hours ago

  • Observer

Khareef Dhofar unveils heritage experiences

SALALAH: The Dhofar Municipality is organising a variety of events for the Khareef Dhofar Season 2025, offering a comprehensive experience that blends culture, entertainment and innovation. The season features international shows, some of which are being presented for the first time in Oman and globally. The various event locations are attracting a large number of visitors due to their diverse and engaging content. Ammar bin Obaid Gawas, Director of Events and Awareness at Dhofar Municipality, stated that the Attin Square is a centrepiece of this season's events. It hosts one of the world's largest inflatable play cities, a stage with the latest sound and lighting technology, eco-friendly fireworks, drone shows and folklore performances from 18 countries. It also features diverse markets for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and local products from Omani entrepreneurs. He added that the Modern Waterfront provides a complete family entertainment destination, including a walkway, a children's area, a princesses' palace, and a variety of restaurants and food trucks. It also hosts the 'Awdah' event, which simulates traditional Omani life with shows of traditional arts, heritage markets and handicrafts that preserve the national heritage. Gawas explained that Awqad Park, branded as 'Children's Time', is dedicated to providing innovative educational and recreational activities for children in a safe environment. Meanwhile, Salalah Park, or the 'Healthy Park', hosts sports paths and challenges suitable for all ages, encouraging an active and balanced lifestyle. Ammar bin Obaid Gawas, Director of Events and Awareness, Dhofar Municipality Gawas also noted that the season includes multiple accompanying events such as 'Awsara', 'Avicenna' and 'Al Gharf', as well as the Frankincense Market and Al Haffa Beach Market. Activities are also being held in the wilayats of Taqah, Mirbat and Sadah. The season is also hosting major international sporting events, including the Salalah International Cycling Tour, the Dhofar International Sand Drag Race Championship, and a traditional weapons shooting competition. He affirmed that Dhofar Municipality has been keen on highlighting Omani identity at all event locations, with more than a thousand national projects for productive families and entrepreneurs. He stressed that the operation and organisation of the events have been fully assigned to Omani companies, a step that reflects support for national projects and youth ideas and makes the season a true platform for sustainable development. - ONA

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store