Plan devised for diverse projects in recreational tourism sectors
Muscat: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism is implementing an ambitious plan in 2025 to diversify tourism sectors and enhance recreational offerings through a series of high-quality projects.
These initiatives, coordinated with the governors' offices across Oman's various governorates, fall under the broader framework of the comprehensive tourism development plan. They aim to strengthen tourism infrastructure and expand the range of experiences available to visitors.
The ministry highlighted some of the most prominent projects, including the Recreational Slides Project, Al Ashkhara Gateway Project, Recreational Fishing Project, Mountain Slopes Project, Aromatic Tourism Experiences Project, Falaj Experience Activation Project, Adventure Tourism Initiatives and the Great Oman Journey Experience Project.
Fakhriya Khamis Al Ghassani, Director of the Product and Tourism Experiences Development Department at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, stated that these projects align with the objectives outlined in the comprehensive tourism development plan. They seek to enhance the quality of tourism offerings, boost competitiveness, and provide unique opportunities and experiences across various destinations, she explained.
She added that these efforts support increasing the contribution of non-oil sectors to the GDP, attract local and foreign investments to Oman, and offer exceptional experiences for domestic, regional, and international tourists while appealing to diverse demographic groups.
She affirmed that the ministry continues to promote cultural tourism as a cornerstone for diversifying the tourism product and reinforcing national identity. The ministry launched the 'Omani Cuisine and Culinary Arts Tourism" program, which includes multiple initiatives such as documenting Omani cuisine and developing dedicated culinary tourism routes. These routes feature visits to traditional kitchens and restaurants serving authentic recipes, elevating Omani gastronomy as a key element of the tourism experience.
Al Ghassani lauded the pivotal role of Omani museums in showcasing history, culture, and living heritage. The ministry, she said, is enhancing museum content through interactive digital displays, allowing visitors to engage deeply with Oman's rich civilization. Museums serve as both educational and tourism institutions, blending physical exhibits with modern technology to present historical narratives in an engaging manner.
She noted that statistics indicate significant growth in heritage site visitors. For instance, A'Dakhiliyah Governorate—home to landmarks such as Nizwa Fort and Jabrin Castle—welcomed over 415,000 visitors in 2024, marking a 32% increase compared to the previous year. This surge, she explained, is attributed to the development of heritage neighborhoods, improved services, and diversified tourism experiences.
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