RNO Vessel (Shabab Oman II) docks at Jeddah Islamic Port
Jeddah: The Royal Navy of Oman's (RNO) vessel Shabab Oman II docked today at Jeddah Islamic Port in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as part of its seventh international voyage (Glories of the Seas) on route to Europe.
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Times of Oman
15 hours ago
- Times of Oman
Tourist sites in South Al Batinah witness surge in visitors
Muscat: A number of tourist sites in the wilayats of South Al Batinah Governorate have witnessed increased activity over the past two days. Ain Al Kasfa in the Wilayat of Rustaq has seen a large influx of visitors drawn by its natural hot springs. The spring remains a popular tourist destination, especially following recent developments. Restaurants and cafes near the spring have also experienced a rise in footfall. Tourism has also been active in Nakhal, covering various tourist, archaeological, and historical sites such as Nakhal Fort and Ain Al Thawara. The Jabal Al Luban Trail has recorded a significant increase in visitors due to its unique terrain and rich ecological diversity. Located along the road to Ain Al Thawara, one of the area's key tourist attractions, the trail introduces visitors to the local flora and provides an opportunity for hiking. In the Wilayat of Wadi Al Ma'awil, the Hajarat Al Sheikh Walkway in the town of Afi has attracted a vibrant flow of tourists from within and outside the region. The project promotes tourism by connecting three significant heritage sites: Hajarat Al Sheikh Neighborhood, Al Safalah Castle, and Bait Al Ghasham Museum. The walkway allows visitors to explore these cultural landmarks, rich in Omani history, and passes by Falaj Al Washah amid green oases and palm groves, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and traditional heritage.
Times of Oman
3 days ago
- Times of Oman
Saudi Arabia: Indian pilgrims perform Wuquf-e-Arafat
Riyadh: Indian pilgrims joined millions of others in Saudi Arabia on Thursday to perform Wuquf-e-Arafat, the core ritual of Hajj pilgrimage, the Embassy of India in Riyadh shared on Thursday. The Indian Embassy wrote on X, "Indian pilgrims join millions of other pilgrims today at Arafat to perform Wuquf-e-Arafat, the core ritual of Haj." In a video message, Consul General Fahad Suri said, "On this blessed day of Arafat, I extend my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to all the pilgrims gathered in Arafat, the pinnacle of the Hajj journey. These five sacred days spent in Meena, Arafat and Muzalifa are a time of deep reflection and devotion and form the core elements of Hajj. I am pleased to share that all pilgrims from India have safely arrived in Arafat and are currently engaged in prayers and supplications. Comprehensive arrangements have been made by Indian Hajj Mission in coordination with concerned Saudi authorities and agencies for the safe and smooth movement of pilgrims right from their transfer to Arafat, their stay here and further movements for Musalifa and Mina. We extend our sincere gratitude to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, its authorities, particularly the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, all concerned agencies and all service providers for their tireless efforts in facilitating a safe and spiritually fulfilling Hajj. Wishing all of you a successful Hajj and a blessed Eid-ul-Adha. Hajj ma brur, hajj ma bruk, Eid Mubarak." India and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia enjoy close friendly relations reflecting the centuries old economic and socio-cultural ties. The annual Hajj pilgrimage is an important component of India-Saudi Arabia bilateral relations. During PM Modi's visit to Saudi Arabia earlier this year, the MEA noted in a previous statement that the Indian side had expressed its appreciation to the Saudi side for the continuing welfare of around 2.7 million Indian nationals residing in the Kingdom, reflecting the strong people- to-people bonds and immense goodwill that exists between the two nations. The Indian side also congratulated Saudi Arabia for successfully holding the Hajj pilgrimage in 2024 and expressed its appreciation for the excellent coordination between the two countries in facilitating Indian Haj and Umrah pilgrims.
Times of Oman
4 days ago
- Times of Oman
Nizwa: sustainable development bridging heritage and investment horizons
Nizwa — The Wilayat of Nizwa in the Governorate of A'Dakhiliyah stands as one of Oman's most prominent cultural and touristic destinations, renowned for its rich historical legacy and archaeological landmarks that chronicle significant chapters of the nation's past. Its distinctive architectural and heritage sites beautifully encapsulate Oman's authentic cultural identity. The iconic Nizwa Fort dominates the historical landscape as a masterpiece of traditional Omani architecture and engineering. Adjacent to the fort, the vibrant Nizwa Souq (market) showcases exceptional local craftsmanship, from intricately forged daggers and handcrafted silverware to traditional markets selling livestock, fresh produce, and artisanal goods. Falaj Daris, recognized on UNESCO's World Heritage list as one of Oman's largest aflaj irrigation systems, represents another jewel in Nizwa's heritage crown. This ancient water network sustains extensive agricultural lands while demonstrating centuries-old Omani ingenuity in sustainable water management. The recent development of a public garden within the falaj has further enhanced its ecological and touristic value. Nizwa's strategic geographical location, combined with its diverse topography of wadis (valleys), mountains, and verdant oases, has established it as a prime destination for cultural and eco-tourism. These natural assets, along with progressive development initiatives, have positioned the Wilayat of Nizwa as an attractive investment hub for tourism and infrastructure projects. Nizwa has achieved remarkable progress in sustainable development through Strategic initiatives have been launched in Nizwa in a bid to achieve remarkable progress in sustainable development. These initiatives have further enhanced urban infrastructure and quality of life. Significant development projects currently underway include A'Dakhiliyah Square launched earlier this year, an RO 7 million Integrated Public Transport Station, and restoration works in Haray Al Aqr where wall rehabilitation stands 65% complete with pathway paving 20% finished. The Public Garden Project has reached 40% completion, collectively aiming to elevate Nizwa's status as Oman's premier cultural-tourism destination while creating new economic opportunities. Harat Al Aqr (an old neighborhood renovated by the locals) has transformed into a flagship example of youth empowerment, hosting 78 entrepreneurial ventures that have generated over 300 jobs for young Omanis. This revitalization has turned the historical quarter into a dynamic center for innovation and traditional crafts, featuring heritage cafes, artisanal shops, private museums, restored guesthouses, and classic car exhibitions. The area's cultural renaissance has dramatically increased property values from RO 10 to RO 1,500 per square meter and now attracts over 20 official delegations annually. Sheikh Saleh Thiyab Al Rubaie, Wali of Nizwa, emphasized to Oman News Agency (ONA) that developmental projects are strategically designed to strengthen local economies while preserving cultural heritage. He noted Nizwa's unique historical assets perfectly position it to benefit from sustainable tourism and knowledge-based economic models. The Wali highlighted how historical neighborhood restoration forms a cornerstone of Nizwa's economic strategy, serving the dual purpose of safeguarding cultural identity through architectural conservation while creating employment via tourism and SME development. Nizwa Industrial City, under the Public Establishment for Industrial Estates (Madayn), represents another facet of Nizwa's growth with 186 operational projects across 7.2 million square meters of developed area, attracting RO 504 million in cumulative investments and generating 6,100 jobs with a 45% Omanization rate. Eng. Ishaq Ibrahim Al Kharousi, Acting Director General, revealed Madayn's upcoming RO 1.2 million Entrepreneurial Complex and ongoing studies for an integrated residential zone within the industrial city. On her turn, Ahlam Hamad Al Qasabi, Director of Heritage and Tourism, outlined the ministry's comprehensive SME support programs including streamlined licensing procedures, specialized training initiatives, and incentive packages for heritage hospitality ventures. She noted how the conversion of historical homes into heritage inns perfectly illustrates the purple economy approach, citing 600,000 visitors to Harat Al Aqr in the first quarter of 2023 as evidence of this model's success in merging cultural preservation with economic viability. The ministry continues to prioritize fortress restorations and historical documentation to enhance Oman's sustainable tourism offerings while safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. This comprehensive development approach positions Nizwa as a model for balanced sustainable growth, where cultural heritage preservation and modern economic development progress hand in hand, creating new opportunities while maintaining the unique identity. —— Ends/AH
