07-07-2025
RO3mn pact to build visitor centre in Qalhat
Muscat – Ministry of Heritage and Tourism signed an agreement on Monday worth RO3mn with Oman LNG Development Foundation to finance the establishment of a visitor centre at the ancient city of Qalhat.
The initiative forms part of the ministry's strategy to develop and promote Unesco World Heritage sites across the sultanate.
To be constructed on a 5,000sqm site, the centre will feature two museum halls to showcase archaeological finds, along with administrative offices, a gift shop, café, outdoor event space, internal walkways linking the centre to the heritage site, shaded seating areas and parking facilities.
The agreement was signed by H E Salim bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, and Dr Amer bin Nasser al Matani, CEO of Oman LNG Development Foundation.
Located in South Sharqiyah, Qalhat is one of Oman's oldest known cities and maritime hubs. Strategically located overlooking the Sea of Oman, its port once served as an important hub in ancient trade routes connecting India, Yemen and other parts of the world. The city was also a key centre for exporting Arabian horses.
Commenting on the agreement, Khalifa al Farsi, Director of the Ancient City of Qalhat Department, described the visitor centre as a major addition to both Qalhat and Sur.
Qalhat was officially inscribed on the Unesco World Heritage List in 2018, underscoring its historical and cultural significance.
