Latest news with #MoHT
Observer
4 days ago
- Business
- Observer
More youth to be trained for hospitality sector
A number of Omani youth will be trained and prepared to work in the hospitality sector, thanks to the ongoing efforts to boost inbound tourism, according to Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MoHT) sources. An agreement to train Omani youth in various fields of hospitality starting with hotel reception was signed by the MoHT with Mitsui E&P Middle East to finance and implement training programmes for the youth. The training programme will be implemented in cooperation with the Muscat Hospitality Academy, which is part of the internationally accredited Swiss School of Business, Hospitality and Hotel Management programmes. The three-month programme aims to qualify Omani staff to work in the hotel reception and front office management sector, enhancing the quality of tourism services provided and keeping pace with developments in this vital field. This agreement comes within the framework of joint efforts to enhance national empowerment in the tourism sector by developing the skills of Omani youth and preparing them for work in the hospitality sector. This agreement represents a model step for Public and Private Partnerships (PPP), reflecting the ongoing efforts to support the sustainable development of the tourism sector in the Sultanate of Oman by providing advanced training opportunities that open new horizons for Omani youth to work and contribute to strengthening the national economy. The ministry affirmed that this initiative is part of its plan to enhance national skills, commending the cooperation with Mitsui E&P Middle East and Muscat Hospitality Academy to achieve these shared goals. This agreement is part of a series of projects the ministry is implementing to support and develop the tourism sector and achieve its vision of building a sustainable tourism sector that contributes to comprehensive development in the Sultanate of Oman.
Observer
02-04-2025
- Observer
Rose harvest season begins in Al Jabal Al Akhdhar
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MoHT) has invited tourists to experience the annual rose harvest season which has kicked off in the Wilayat of Al Jabal Al Akhdhar in the Governorate of Al Dakhiliyah. Every year, during the rose festival season which is usually from the end of March until mid-May, the rugged mountain landscape of Al Jabal Al Akhdhar transforms into a spectacular shade of pink. The vast, green terraces lying at an altitude of more than 3,000 metres become covered with more than 5,000 rose trees on an area of roughly 7 to 10 acres. It is typically associated with the distillation of rose water, which serves as a key component of ornamental products, aromatics and sweets and Omani coffee. The rose water is used as flavouring for food and beverages, and has recently been introduced into the cosmetics industry, including creams and aromatic soaps. Not only that, the roses, after pressing, are used in soap and fertiliser production, according to the residents of the wilayat. According to statistics, the rose production in Al Jabal Al Akhdhar has increased significantly to over 20 tonnes last year from 9 tonnes. The production in 2024 was valued at RO 200,000, highlighting the economic importance of rose farming in the wilayat. Additionally, the amount of rose water produced from those trees is estimated at 28,000 litres. "The rose harvest season in Al Jabal Al Akhdhar, which runs from the end of March and continues until mid-April every year, ushers in a state of tourism diversity and allows tourists to have a close look at traditional and modern methods of distilling rose water," a spokesperson from the ministry said. "The harvest season is closely connected with our tradition and culture and attracts visitors who participate in picking and processing roses and enjoy cultural performances, traditional food and local hospitality which happen in my wilayat," says Abdullah al Dharmaki, a public sector employee from Al Jabal Al Akhdhar. Realising the value addition of the rose harvest to the national GDP, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and A project was launched in March 2024 to boost rose cultivation. With RO 150,000 financing from the Agricultural and Fisheries Development Fund, the two-year project aims to benefit 15 farmers. Objectives include conducting a study on rose cultivation and related industries in collaboration with local SMEs, supporting the cultivation of an additional five acres of roses, introducing agricultural machinery and providing training to beneficiaries engaged in the rose water industry.
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
