Museums, archaeological sites boost tourism in Khareef

Observer

6 days ago

Salalah - The museums and archaeological sites in Dhofar Governorate serve as a fundamental pillar of cultural tourism during the Khareef (monsoon) season. They attract visitors from within and outside Oman and reflect the richness of the governorate's cultural and archaeological assets.
Several officials from the heritage and tourism sectors, along with investors in archaeological sites, told Oman News Agency that the Khareef Dhofar season is a golden opportunity to promote cultural tourism in the governorate, given the large number of visitors interested in Omani history and cultural identity.
Ali Salim Al Kathiri, director of the Land of Frankincense Sites at the Directorate General of Heritage and Tourism in Dhofar Governorate, stated that the archaeological cities of Samharam and Al Baleed represent a unique model of ancient port cities that flourished on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. These cities undertook a vital role in the maritime trade network, especially the frankincense trade.
He added that historical sources and excavation results at these two sites have revealed a succession of multiple civilizations, reflecting the rich civilizational heritage of southern Oman. Both sites have been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2000.
Al Kathiri noted that the number of visitors to the Land of Frankincense sites and the Museum of the Frankincense Land during the last Khareef season reached 54,569. He anticipates an increase in this number during the current season due to promotional efforts by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism in collaboration with public and private sector partners.
He explained that the visitor experience is evaluated through regular field surveys, research studies conducted by specialized scientific institutions, and the national "Tajawob" platform, which receives public feedback and suggestions. This contributes to improving services and enhancing community interaction with these sites.
Harith Mohammed al Ghassani, a board member of the Dhofar Museum, stated that the museum serves as a window into the history of the Omani people since the first settlements. Located in the old quarter of Salalah, it is distinguished by its heritage design and its contents, which include over 1,000 artifacts collected by the museum's founder since the 1950s. It also offers translated information and integrated services.
He noted that the museum attracts researchers, enthusiasts, and tourists for the insightful experience it offers, which tells the story of the Omani people, their environment, and their civilizational connections.
For his part, Salim Ahmed al Amri, owner of the "Tawasul Al Ajyal Museum" (Generations Continuity Museum) in Taqah Wilayat, said that the museum is the first private museum licensed by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism in Dhofar Governorate. It aims to transfer authentic Omani heritage from previous generations to the next, affirming that preserving cultural memory is a shared responsibility between individuals and institutions.
He added that the museum's idea was born from the dream of his late mother, Tuffoul Ramadan Bamukhalef, in the 1950s and came to fruition after her death with the museum's opening in February 2023 inside the family home in the old quarter of Taqah. It serves as a living extension of the memory of the place and its people.