Latest news with #DepartmentofHeritageandTourism
Observer
28-04-2025
- Observer
Wakan village sees surge in visitors, boosting tourism
NAKHAL: The number of visitors to Wakan village in Wadi Mistal, the Wilayat of Nakhal, Al Batinah South Governorate, has reached 19,270 since the beginning of January until April 2025, according to statistics released by the village's Tourism Guidance Office, affiliated to the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism. The village has seen a significant influx of visitors during this period, with statistics indicating that February is typically the peak month for tourism. This year, the village welcomed 7,888 visitors in February, compared to 6,499 in February 2024 and 4,974 in February 2023. The Department of Heritage and Tourism in Al Batinah South affirmed that Wakan village is one of the governorate's key tourist attractions due to its moderate summer climate, similar to other high-altitude areas in the Western Hajar Mountains. This favourable weather allows locals to engage in year-round agriculture, particularly cultivating crops that thrive in temperate summer climates, such as apricots, pomegranates, peaches, walnuts and grapes. Dr Al Mutasim bin Nasser al Hilali, Director of the Department of Heritage and Tourism in Al Batinah South, stated that Wakan village in Nakhal has gained tourist prominence by offering unique experiences, such as stays in its high-altitude mountain lodges, hiking along agricultural trails and exploring ancient mountain paths that have become a draw for adventurers worldwide. He explained that the diversity of attractions in Wakan has made it a sustainable tourism destination. During winter, it attracts international visitors, including those from GCC countries, while domestic tourism peaks in summer due to the mild temperatures and harvest seasons. Key harvest periods include apricots in April, peaches in June, and pomegranates and grapes from June to September. He added that the agricultural trail in Wakan is one of the most enriching experiences for visitors, offering adventure, discovery and immersion in the village's mountainous environment. The trail requires ascending over 600 steps to reach its highest point. The village also features historical landmarks, including an ancient mosque, old neighbourhood structures and centuries-old agricultural terraces. Farmers in Wakan have begun harvesting apricots during this period, with prices ranging between RO 2 to RO 3 per kilogramme, depending on quality. Apricot cultivation remains one of the primary income sources for local farmers. - ONA
Muscat Daily
27-04-2025
- Muscat Daily
Wakan Village welcomes over 19,000 tourists in four months
Nakhal – The picturesque village of Wakan in Wadi Mistal, nestled in the Wilayat of Nakhal in South Batinah Governorate, has attracted 19,270 visitors between January and April this year, according to the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism. February remains the village's peak tourist month, drawing 6,499 visitors this year, compared to 4,974 in 2023. The highest recorded February was in 2022, with 7,888 tourists. Known for its moderate summer climate and scenic mountain views, Wakan has become a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. Situated high in the Western Hajar Mountains, the village offers unique agricultural and adventure experiences. The climate supports the cultivation of a variety of fruits including apricots, pomegranates, peaches, walnuts, and grapes. Dr Al Moatasem bin Nasser al Hilali, Director of the Department of Heritage and Tourism in South Batinah, highlighted Wakan's rise as a sustainable tourism destination. 'Tourists can enjoy mountain lodging, hike ancient trails, and explore agricultural terraces that reflect the village's centuries-old heritage,' he said. Tourism in Wakan is seasonal, with international visitors particularly from GCC countries—flocking in during the winter, while local tourism peaks in the summer, coinciding with the harvest season. Notable harvests include the 'shams' fruit in April, peaches in June, and pomegranates and grapes from June to September. A key feature of the village is its agricultural trail, which requires climbing over 600 steps to reach its summit. Wakan also boasts historical landmarks, including an ancient mosque and the remains of its old neighborhood offering a glimpse into Oman's rural architectural legacy.
Times of Oman
27-04-2025
- Times of Oman
Wakan village attracts over 19,000 visitors
Nakhal: The number of visitors to Wakan Village in Wadi Mistal, the Wilayat of Nakhl, South Al Batinah Governorate, has reached 19,270 since the beginning of January until April 2025, according to statistics released by the village's Tourism Guidance Office, affiliated to the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism. The village has seen a significant influx of visitors during this period, with statistics indicating that February is typically the peak month for tourism. This year, the village welcomed 7,888 visitors in February, compared to 6,499 in February 2024 and 4,974 in February 2023. The Department of Heritage and Tourism in South Al Batinah affirmed that Wakan Village is one of the governorate's key tourist attractions due to its moderate summer climate, similar to other high-altitude areas in the Western Hajar Mountains. This favorable weather allows locals to engage in year-round agriculture, particularly cultivating crops that thrive in temperate summer climates, such as apricots, pomegranates, peaches, walnuts and grapes. Dr. Al-Mutasim Nasser Al Hilali, Director of the Department of Heritage and Tourism in South Al Batinah, stated that Wakan Village in Nakhal has gained tourist prominence by offering unique experiences, such as stays in its high-altitude mountain lodges, hiking along agricultural trails, and exploring ancient mountain paths that have become a draw for adventurers worldwide. He explained that the diversity of attractions in Wakan has made it a sustainable tourism destination. During winter, it attracts international visitors, including those from GCC countries, while domestic tourism peaks in summer due to the mild temperatures and harvest seasons. Key harvest periods include apricots in April, peaches in June, and pomegranates and grapes from June to September. He added that the agricultural trail in Wakan is one of the most enriching experiences for visitors, offering adventure, discovery, and immersion in the village's mountainous environment. The trail requires ascending over 600 steps to reach its highest point. The village also features historical landmarks, including an ancient mosque, old neighborhood structures, and centuries-old agricultural terraces. Farmers in Wakan have begun harvesting apricots during this period, with prices ranging between RO 2 to RO 3 per kilogram, depending on quality. Apricot cultivation remains one of the primary income sources for local farmers.
Zawya
20-03-2025
- Zawya
Oman's Dakhliyah sees 32.94% rise in tourists
Nizwa: The number of visitors to heritage and tourist sites in Dakhliyah governorate rose to 415,081 in 2024, a 32.94% increase from 312,243 in 2023, according to the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism. Among the key attractions, Al Hoota Cave recorded 39,981 visitors last year. The rise in the tourist numbers is attributed to the increasing role of heritage and tourism neighbourhoods such as Harat al Aqar in Nizwa and Harat al Ain in Izki, along with the popularity of destinations like Jabal Akhdar, Jabal Sharqi and Misfat al Abriyeen in Al Hamra. Ahlam Hamad al Qasabi, Director of the Heritage and Tourism Department in Dakhliyah, said the region is home to 63 castles and forts, with major landmarks including Nizwa Fort, Jabreen Castle, Bahla Fort and Bait al Rudaydah Castle being actively invested in. Samail Fort has also been offered for private sector investment. By the end of 2024, the governorate had 158 hotel establishments, including hotels, camps, hotel apartments, rest houses, guesthouses, and heritage and green inns, offering around 2,636 rooms. Qasabi noted that investment in historical landmarks aligns with the ministry's efforts to preserve cultural heritage and ensure its sustainability. 'This includes creating direct and indirect job opportunities, empowering the private sector- especially small and medium enterprises and local artisans- and providing marketing outlets for craftsmen to enrich local tourism and revitalise cultural heritage sites.' Adventure tourism and seasonal agricultural experiences, such as the pomegranate, rose, and peach harvests in Jabal Akhdar, are among the key attractions drawing visitors. Developed traditional neighbourhoods showcasing Omani culture, including pottery and silverware craftsmanship, also continue to attract tourists. The Department of Heritage and Tourism is facilitating tourism licensing processes and organising year-round events. 'Planned initiatives include the Rose Pathway in Jabal Akhdar and the restoration of several historic landmarks and mosques to preserve the region's cultural legacy and enhance its appeal as a tourist destination,' Qasabi said. © Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Muscat Daily
19-03-2025
- Muscat Daily
Oman's Dakhliyah sees 32.94% rise in tourists
Nizwa – The number of visitors to heritage and tourist sites in Dakhliyah governorate rose to 415,081 in 2024, a 32.94% increase from 312,243 in 2023, according to the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism. Among the key attractions, Al Hoota Cave recorded 39,981 visitors last year. The rise in the tourist numbers is attributed to the increasing role of heritage and tourism neighbourhoods such as Harat al Aqar in Nizwa and Harat al Ain in Izki, along with the popularity of destinations like Jabal Akhdar, Jabal Sharqi and Misfat al Abriyeen in Al Hamra. Ahlam Hamad al Qasabi, Director of the Heritage and Tourism Department in Dakhliyah, said the region is home to 63 castles and forts, with major landmarks including Nizwa Fort, Jabreen Castle, Bahla Fort and Bait al Rudaydah Castle being actively invested in. Samail Fort has also been offered for private sector investment. By the end of 2024, the governorate had 158 hotel establishments, including hotels, camps, hotel apartments, rest houses, guesthouses, and heritage and green inns, offering around 2,636 rooms. Qasabi noted that investment in historical landmarks aligns with the ministry's efforts to preserve cultural heritage and ensure its sustainability. 'This includes creating direct and indirect job opportunities, empowering the private sector- especially small and medium enterprises and local artisans- and providing marketing outlets for craftsmen to enrich local tourism and revitalise cultural heritage sites.' Adventure tourism and seasonal agricultural experiences, such as the pomegranate, rose, and peach harvests in Jabal Akhdar, are among the key attractions drawing visitors. Developed traditional neighbourhoods showcasing Omani culture, including pottery and silverware craftsmanship, also continue to attract tourists. The Department of Heritage and Tourism is facilitating tourism licensing processes and organising year-round events. 'Planned initiatives include the Rose Pathway in Jabal Akhdar and the restoration of several historic landmarks and mosques to preserve the region's cultural legacy and enhance its appeal as a tourist destination,' Qasabi said.
