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Zawya
10-06-2025
- Zawya
Oman: Eco and heritage tourism drive South Sharqiyah's rise as travel hotspot
Sur – South Sharqiyah continues to be one of Oman's most visited regions, drawing thousands of visitors with its diverse natural landscapes and deep cultural heritage. The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) reported 38,793 tourist arrivals in the governorate in 2024, with the upward trend persisting into 2025. In the first quarter of this year, the region received 5,655 tourists. Known for its coastlines, wadis, mountain ranges and historical sites, South Sharqiyah has become massively popular among both domestic and international travellers. Its key attractions include the Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve, Fatah al Khair Centre and Al Saleel Natural Park in the wilayat of Al Kamil Wal Wafi. The governorate is also home to a number of forts and castles that reflect Oman's rich architectural and maritime legacy. These sites, alongside traditional shipbuilding workshops and local heritage experiences, form the backbone of its tourism offering. Abdullah bin Rashid al Hajri, Director of the Heritage and Tourism Department in South Sharqiyah, attributed the governorate's rising profile to its year-round appeal and geographical diversity. 'Several wilayats enjoy mild summer weather, which enhances the visitor experience,' he said. 'The combination of sea, mountains and desert offers endless possibilities for adventure seekers.' Hajri added that the region supports a range of activities, including camping, fishing, kitesurfing, and turtle watching – especially between June and August, when green turtles arrive to nest along the shores. He also urged travellers to explore key heritage sites such as Bilad Sur Fort, Al Snaisilah Fort, Ras al Hadd Fort, Jaalan Bani Bu Hassan Fort and Al Ayjah Fort, as well as natural landmarks such as Wadi Shab, Wadi Tiwi, Masirah Island, Mibam Village, and the Unesco-listed Falaj al Jeela and Kubaykib Tombs. South Sharqiyah's growing reputation is part of Oman's broader strategy to diversify its economy by boosting tourism. The focus is on leveraging local resources to attract sustainable visitor flows while generating employment and supporting the national GDP. New projects to support tourism In a move to improve tourism infrastructure and promote domestic travel, South Sharqiyah governorate has announced several new development projects across the region. The Governor's Office has floated tenders for the construction of a waterfront promenade in the Al Barr area of Sur and a public park in Jaalan Bani Bu Ali. These initiatives aim to create integrated recreational spaces for families and tourists, while supporting environmental and tourism-related activities. Additionally, consultancy services are being sought for the design and technical supervision of the Ras al Hadd waterfront development project. Ras al Hadd is internationally recognised as an eco-tourism destination and nesting site for sea turtles. Interested companies have been asked to submit proposals by June 11, in accordance with the terms specified in the tender documents. The initiatives form part of the governorate's coordinated strategy, in collaboration with various government bodies, to enhance public services, promote sustainable tourism, and stimulate local economic growth through job creation. © Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Times of Oman
04-06-2025
- General
- Times of Oman
South Al Sharqiyah: A summer haven for adventure and nature lovers
Muscat: South Al Sharqiyah Governorate is a prime summer tourist destination thanks to its rich natural diversity and geographical location, which includes beaches, mountain valleys, golden sands, and nature reserves. The governorate boasts several tourist destinations, including the Fath Al Khair Center, Ras Al Jinz Nature Reserve, and the Al Sulayyil Nature Reserve in the Wilayat of Al Kamil and Al Wafi. South Al Sharqiyah Governorate is famous for its historical and archaeological assets, including several historic castles and forts. The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism reported that the number of visitors to tourist sites in the governorate during the past year (2024) reached 38,793, while the number of visitors to the governorate in the first quarter of 2025 reached approximately 5,655. Abdullah bin Rashid Al Hajri, Director of the Heritage and Tourism Department in South Al Sharqiyah Governorate, said that the governorate is one of the Sultanate of Oman's governorates, some of whose wilayats enjoy moderate summer weather and a tourist attraction that combines a coastal environment with towering mountains and sweeping valleys. This creates an exceptional destination for adventure and exploration enthusiasts, making it an ideal destination for water sports enthusiasts and an ideal place for camping, fishing, watching turtles, kitesurfing, and visiting traditional shipbuilding workshops. Al Hajri added that South Al Sharqiyah Governorate is unique in the presence of green turtles during the nesting period from June to August, making it a tourist attraction in the governorate. The Director of the Department of Heritage and Tourism in South Al Sharqiyah Governorate pointed out that visitors to the governorate during the summer can visit many historical sites such as (Bilad Sur Fort, Al Sunaysla Fort, Ras Al Hadd Fort, Jalan Bani Bu Hassan Fort, and Al Ayjah Fort), in addition to visiting tourist sites in South Al Sharqiyah Governorate during the summer, including the turtle reserve in Ras Al Jinz, Wadi Al Shab, Wadi Tiwi, Mebam Village, Masirah Island, Kabikab Tombs, and Falaj Al Jila, which has been classified on the World Heritage List.
