Latest news with #HeritageandTourismDepartment
Muscat Daily
9 hours ago
- Muscat Daily
Eco, 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.
Muscat Daily
20 hours ago
- Muscat Daily
South Sharqiyah registers growth in tourism, unveils new projects
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.
Times of Oman
09-04-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
Jabal Spring event to be organised as part of the rose picking harvest season
Nizwa: The Heritage and Tourism Department and the SMEs Development Authority in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate, in cooperation with Al Saqri Integrated Projects Co. will organise on Thursday Rabie Al Jabal (Jabal Spring ) event as part of the rose picking harvest season in Jabal Akhdar. The event aims to push forward the tourism activity and support the local community. It also aims to offer a unique experience to the visitors and showcase the value of the Omani rose and associated traditional industries. The programme of the event includes field visits to the company and to the rose farms at Saiq, Al Ain, Al Shareejah and Al Aqar areas to acquaint with the stages of growing rose , rose picking and the traditional methods of rose distillation and showcasing the cultural heritage in the Wilayat of Jabal Akhdar. The event also includes the tent of 'entrepreneurs and artists' , heritage souqs, pavilion for honey and Omani coffee and handworks coupled with children entertainment activities. The rose harvest (picking ) season in the Wilayat of Jabal Akhdar kicked off at the beginning of this month. The rose harvest season is one of the key annual events that attract visitors and tourists from within and outside the Sultanate of Oman. Sheikh Sulaiman Abdullah Al Kalbani, Deputy Wali of Jabal Akhdar stressed the significance of the event which comes within the continued efforts of Al Dakhiliyah Governorate and aims to boost the tourism and agriculture sectors and entrepreneurship. He said that the event also represents a platform and an opportunity for the display of the products of local craftsmen and farmers.
Observer
25-03-2025
- Observer
MoHT implements restoration, maintenance projects in Suwaiq
Al SUWAIQ: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MoHT) is actively carrying out multiple restoration and maintenance projects aimed at preserving and rehabilitating historical and archaeological landmarks in the Wilayat of Al Suwaiq, Al Batinah North Governorate. This initiative aligns with the ministry's ongoing commitment to safeguarding Oman's rich cultural heritage across various wilayats and governorates. Hassan bin Sulaiman al Jabri, Director of the Heritage and Tourism Department in Al Batinah North, highlighted that the directorate is undertaking a series of restoration efforts, focusing on key historical sites that reflect Oman's architectural and cultural legacy. Among the key projects is the recently completed Al Maghabsha Wall, which underwent extensive restoration, including repairs to its walls, towers and internal components. Additionally, significant work is being carried out to restore the Al Hilal Wall, with completion anticipated within the current year. The project encompasses the renovation of walls and the maintenance of towers, ensuring structural stability and long-term preservation. The Al Maghabsha Wall, which dates back to the reign of Sayyid Said bin Sultan al Busaidy (1807–1856 AD), is characterised by its rectangular fortress-like design. Measuring 45 metres in length and 44 metres in width, it features four cylindrical towers, each spanning three floors, emphasising its strategic and defensive significance. Meanwhile, the Al Hilal Wall, constructed in the 13th century AH (19th century AD), showcases a square-shaped structure with an elevated entrance comprising two floors, which historically served as a vantage point for guarding and surveillance. The structure also houses two large cannons, underscoring its defensive role in the region's history. Al Jabri underscored the importance of these restoration efforts, noting that preserving such heritage sites is crucial for documenting Oman's history and enabling future generations to appreciate their historical significance. Additionally, restored forts and castles serve as major attractions for domestic and international tourists, contributing to the growth of cultural tourism in Oman. By preventing these landmarks from deterioration and extinction, the ministry aims to fortify national identity and promote Oman's historical narrative on a global platform. - ONA
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. (
