Oman Kite Festival starting in Barr al Hikman on July 15
Organised by Omran Group in collaboration with Oman Sail, the festival aims to promote the sultanate as a key international destination for adventure and marine sports tourism.
Now in its expanded format, the event builds on the success of last year's festival – called Oman Downwinder – and will feature a series of kitesurfing competitions alongside cultural and recreational activities. A larger number of international athletes are expected this year, with the festival extended in both duration and geographical reach.
The main attraction is the multi-stage Downwinder race, which will see participants kitesurf through four coastal legs: Barr al Hikman to Masirah Island on July 16, Masirah Island to Ras al Ruwais on July 20, Pink Lagoons to Al Ashkharah on July 21, and Ras al Jinz to Ras al Hadd on July 23. Abdulhafidh al Harthi, Assets Manager – Experiences at Omran Group
Additional competitions include Kite Course Race (Barr al Hikman, July 15), Big Air Show (Masirah Island, July 17), Freestyle Show (Masirah Island, July 18), Coastal Race (Masirah Island, July 19) and Slalom Race (Ras al Hadd Lake, July 24).
Off the water, the festival will include a family-friendly zone and an SME exhibition at Ashkharah Municipal Park, highlighting local businesses and traditional crafts.
The festival supports the tourism diversification goals under National Tourism Strategy 2040 by spotlighting Oman's natural assets and positioning it as a hub for sports tourism.
Abdulhafidh al Harthi, Assets Manager – Experiences at Omran Group, said the festival is part of the company's ongoing efforts to showcase Oman's coastal appeal and develop tourism-linked experiences aligned with the sultanate's long-term strategy.
The festival is supported by Visit Oman and Oman Adventures Centre. Further information on event schedules and public access is available at omankitefestival.om
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