Latest news with #MinistryofHeritageandTourism
Muscat Daily
a day ago
- Muscat Daily
Al Manakher: A hidden gem in the heart of Jabal Akhdar
Jabal Akhdar : Tucked away in the eastern heights of Jabal Akhdar in Oman's Dakhliyah Governorate lies the picturesque village of Al Manakher, a destination celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant agricultural life. Often the first village to greet the morning sun, Al Manakher is also the first stop for travelers ascending Jabal Akhdar from the Birkat al Mouz route. Surrounded by wild flora and perennial trees like atam , but , al-'alan , and shahs , the village offers a scenic haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The locals sustain themselves through the cultivation of pomegranates, peaches, apricots, olives, and walnuts, along with livestock farming—activities that provide both sustenance and income. The lush agricultural trails that wind through the village add an element of exploration, offering visitors an immersive experience in a traditional Omani mountain lifestyle. Historical and cultural treasures abound, with seven mosques including the beautifully designed Al Bilad Mosque , and heritage landmarks like the restored Ghaba Tower and Matrah Bokbir , the largest seasonal waterfall in the area. These elements speak to the village's deeply rooted cultural and religious identity. According to Ahmed bin Hamad al Nabhani, Municipal Council member for Jabal Akhdar, Al Manakher is also well connected to nearby wilayats via several mountain roads, making it a strategic hub for hiking and eco-tourism. The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has placed signposts along these routes to encourage responsible exploration and highlight the region's historical significance. Mahmoud bin Salem al Tubi, a local resident, emphasized the village's appeal as a sustainable tourism destination, especially during fruit harvest seasons and rose blooming periods. The presence of numerous springs and aflaj—such as Falaj al Manakher , Biban Spring , and Rummanah Dam —not only supports agriculture but adds to the village's natural charm. Al Manakher stands as a symbol of rural resilience and cultural richness, offering a unique experience that blends heritage, adventure, and natural splendor in one unforgettable setting.
Observer
a day ago
- Business
- Observer
Tourism firms, hotels must display their licence prominently: MHT
Muscat: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) has notified that essential for tourism and hotel companies to list their license in a prominent place within the establishment, as well as on their websites and social media accounts. The decision is based on the Tourism Law issued by Royal Decree 69/2023 and the Executive Regulations issued by Ministerial Resolution No. (39/2016), and concerning the Ministry's Circular No. 2023/32/6421 100 dated January 8, 2025. The firms should display the tourism license in a prominent place within the establishment, publishing the license data on the establishment's official websites and listing the license on the establishment's social media accounts. MHT called on all concerned establishments to comply quickly, noting that the Ministry will begin, one week from the date of this circular, issuing violations and taking legal action against non-compliant establishments, under the provisions of the laws and regulations.
Observer
16-07-2025
- Observer
Dhofar blooms as khareef season brings new charm
Muscat: While much of the Gulf is engulfed in the peak of summer heat, southern Oman quietly welcomes its most beautiful guest: Khareef. But Dhofar's monsoon is unlike any other. It doesn't bring parched leaves or arid winds — instead, it arrives as a gentle whisper of mist and drizzle, waking the land into vibrant life, according to visitors. 'This is something out of a fairytale,' says Elise Kramer, a tourist from Germany visiting Dhofar for the first time. 'I read about khareef, but nothing prepared me for the serenity and surreal beauty I'm witnessing here.' According to the National Centre for Statistics and Information, over 820,000 tourists visited Dhofar during the 2024 khareef season — a 15% increase from the previous year. Of those, GCC nationals made up more than 65%, while international interest from Europe and Asia continues to rise. The temperate climate, lush hills and soft monsoon rains attract families, nature lovers and photographers alike, all eager to escape the searing summer elsewhere in the region. Fog-draped hills and softly gushing waterfalls are among Dhofar's most iconic scenes. Locations such as Wadi Darbat and Ayn Athum offer breathtaking experiences. Hala Morsi, a visitor from Cairo, said: 'The moment I stepped out of the airport and felt the cool breeze, I knew this place was special. I've never seen such rich greenery in the Gulf. It's peaceful, pure and soul-refreshing.' Data from the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism confirms that Salalah's sites are among the most visited during khareef, consistently drawing record numbers each year. No trip to Dhofar is complete without experiencing its ancient gift to the world: frankincense. This aromatic resin, harvested from native Boswellia trees, has been traded for millennia across the Middle East, Africa and Europe. At Salalah's traditional souqs, tourists can witness frankincense being burned, smell its earthy arom, and purchase raw resin or fragrant oils. Maria Lopez, a tourist from Spain, describes it as magical: 'It's like stepping back in time. The scent is powerful, sacred even. I bought several packs and oils to take back to Madrid. This isn't just a souvenir — it's history in a jar.' Tourism-linked sales of frankincense products saw a 30% increase in the last khareef season, reflecting its cultural significance and growing international demand. Khareef isn't only about misty mountains — it's also a celebration of Dhofari heritage. At Al Haffa Market, visitors are drawn to local handicrafts, spices and traditional clothing, all offered with a generous dose of Omani hospitality. Amani al Zubaidi from Saudi Arabia said: 'I loved the souqs — the colours, the people, the scents. You don't feel like a tourist here, you feel like a welcomed guest.' Cafés, boutique stays and seasonal festivals help bring Dhofar's cultural spirit to life during khareef, turning tourism into a truly immersive experience.
Observer
16-07-2025
- Business
- Observer
73 new job titles approved in hospitality sector: MHT
Muscat: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT), in cooperation with the Ministry of Labour (MolL), has approved 73 new job titles specific to the hotel and tourism resort sector. The initiative is part of broader efforts to organise and develop the tourism industry and enhance the readiness of the labour market to accommodate qualified and skilled national talent. The new titles have been incorporated into the Unified Gulf Manual for Occupational Classification and Description. They have been categorised according to the officially recognised economic activities within the tourism sector, covering hotels, resorts, hotel facilities, rest houses, chalets, heritage inns, and guesthouses. The move offers employers and tourism establishments a broader and more precise set of options to define their workforce needs, contributing to improved institutional performance and the development of human resources in this vital sector. The approved list includes a variety of administrative and technical positions such as: General Manager of Hotel, General Manager of Resort, Resort Manager, Procurement Director, Safety and Security Director, IT Director, Security Director, Finance Director, Events Coordinator, Reservations Supervisor, Airport Services Representative, Guest Relations Clerk, and Audit Supervisor. The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism stressed that this step reflects the ongoing coordination with the Ministry of Labour to support development in the tourism sector and create an environment conducive to growth and investment. The initiative is expected to meet the goals of Oman Vision 2040, which identifies tourism as a key pillar of economic diversification.
Observer
15-07-2025
- Business
- Observer
Al Minzifah village regains its luster
Al Minzifah village, located in the Wilayat of Ibra (160 km from Muscat), is distinguished by its forts, towers and old houses built of plaster and mud. Its facades are decorated with engravings and ornaments, making it one of Oman's archaeological landmarks. Although most of the village's buildings have cracked walls and some of their columns have fallen, this has not diminished its identity as a symbol of Oman's architectural arts. Anyone visiting this village can immediately recognise its historical and architectural significance. Historical sources indicate that it was the commercial centre of Ibra, with its architectural designs featuring shops that underscore the village's vibrant marketing activity. In addition to its economic value, historical sources indicate that this village has succeeded in attracting many travellers and historians. Some have described it as one of the most beautiful Arab villages, with a unique Islamic and Arab character. In recognition of its historical and economic value, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has undertaken a comprehensive, detailed study of this unique village. This study covers the old buildings, the surrounding green oases and the revival of traditional crafts still practiced by residents. The ministry seeks to leverage all factors that may contribute to enhancing tourism in the coming period. The development plan also includes 'Bait Al Derwazah' one of the oldest houses in the village. It was built on several floors and is distinguished by its exquisite geometric carvings and decorations. The restoration of 'Bait Al Derwazah' dates back to 2012, in a deliberate move aimed at encouraging the villagers to restore their old homes. Parts of these houses, which have been partially destroyed, can be restored and rehabilitated, and then invested in as museums, inns, or cafes. In addition to this house, the village includes other houses called Al Minzifah Palaces, most of which consist of two or three floors, including 'Bait Al Shareeah', 'Bait Al Kabeer', 'Bait Al Oud' and 'Bait Al Boomah'. As for the date of construction of this village, some sources date it back to the beginning of the Ya'rubi state. The oldest inscriptions on the archaeological buildings in this village date back to 1716.
