Latest news with #SouthSharqiyah
Zawya
11 hours ago
- Zawya
Oman: Eco and 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. © Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Times of Oman
5 days ago
- Politics
- Times of Oman
Royal Oman Police thwarts smuggling operations
Muscat: The Royal Oman Police(ROP) has successfully thwarted two separate smuggling operations in different parts of the country. In the first incident, the South Sharqiyah Governorate Police arrested four Omani citizens for attempting to smuggle large quantities of tobacco. The suspects reportedly unloaded the contraband on a beach in the Ashkhara of Jaalan Bani Bu Ali and transported it in two fish transport trucks to conceal their illegal activity. Legal procedures against them are underway. Meanwhile, customs officials at the Hamasa border checkpoint intercepted an Omani citizen trying to smuggle a Vietnamese national into the country. The individual was found hidden inside a professionally designed travel storage box. Authorities have initiated legal measures against the suspect.
Zawya
29-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman: South Sharqiyah invites bids for sustainable tourism projects
Sur – South Sharqiyah has announced several tourism and development projects across its wilayats, inviting qualified companies and investors to take part in the bidding process. This is part of a broader strategy to enhance tourism infrastructure and stimulate local economic growth. Tenders issued by South Sharqiyah Governor's Office cover a range of infrastructure works aimed at improving public amenities and boosting visitor appeal. A key project includes construction of a waterfront in the Al Bar area of Sur, planned as a recreational hub to make use of the wilayat's coastal location along the Sea of Oman. Proposals are sought for a pedestrian walkway and public park in Jalan Bani Bu Hassan intended to create green spaces for residents and tourists. The project will support the goal of improving quality of life while promoting environmentally friendly leisure options. The Ras al Hadd waterfront, known for its ecological significance, is also part of the governorate's tender announcement. Home to endangered green turtles and pristine beaches, the area is being positioned as a potential site for sustainable tourism and conservation-linked investment. 'These projects reflect our commitment to harnessing the governorate's natural and cultural assets in a way that benefits both residents and visitors,' said an official at the Governor's Office. 'We are focused on sustainable, high-impact developments that support Oman Vision 2040 objectives, especially in terms of regional growth, private sector engagement and job creation.' According to the official, the developments are part of a long-term plan to promote South Sharqiyah's environmental and cultural features, encourage private sector participation and generate employment for local communities. © Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Muscat Daily
01-03-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
South Sharqiyah launches initiative to revive traditional shipbuilding
Sur – South Sharqiyah has launched an initiative called Al Wastada aimed at reviving the traditional shipbuilding industry and preserving Oman's maritime heritage. Backed by Oman India Fertiliser Company (OMIFCO) with support from multiple government bodies, including Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, the Ministry of Labour, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, and Industrial Innovation Academy, the programme will train young Omanis in the craft of traditional shipbuilding. The core objective of Al Wastada is to provide hands-on training in both theoretical and practical aspects of constructing authentic Omani boats. Participants will learn how to produce certified high-quality boats, which will serve not only as heritage artefacts but also as means of integrating economic innovation into the preservation of Omani culture. In addition to safeguarding Oman's traditional craftsmanship, the programme is designed to create new employment opportunities for young Omanis. By equipping participants with valuable skills, Al Wastada aims to enable them to turn their craftsmanship into sustainable livelihoods and career paths. The nine-month training programme will combine classroom learning with practical experience, providing trainees with the expertise to construct traditional Omani ships in accordance with established technical standards. The programme will document the generational knowledge of shipbuilding, ensuring that these skills are passed on to future generations. The first cohort of 20 trainees will begin their training in April.
