Latest news with #culturalfestivals
Zawya
6 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Oman: Nakhal Fort becomes a hotspot for tourists
Nakhal: Nakhal Fort is one of the key tourism landmarks in South Al Batinah. The fort received, during the past few years, the attention and care of citizens and tourists, something that contributed to the cultural movement and tourism and empowered the youth and the participation of women and supported the crafts of the local community and tourism in the Wilayat of Nakhal. The operation of the fort in 2023, when the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism signed a 25- year agreement on the management of the fort with Nakhal Ahlia Investment Company, which gave the company the right to transform the fort into a tourism and entertainment destination that cope with the topography of the area and the Omani identity. The operators have, since 2023, launched different programmes and activities to change the fort into a must-visit destination throughout the year. Saud bin Khalfan Al Kindi, Chief Executive Officer of Nakhal Ahlia Investment Company, said that the number of visitors from within and outside the Sultanate of Oman to the fort amounted to 11,274 during the first quarter of 2025 including 1,731 Omanis and 9,543 visitors from other countries, in addition to 5,986 children aged below 7 years and school students who visited the fort free of charge. He said that the number of activities / events organised amounted to 10 covering all community programmes up to the end of March 2025. Following the agreement signing, the Nakhal Fort has changed into a ground for the cultural festivals and celebrations. After the completion of the renovation works, the fort hosted the First Nakhal Fort Forum, he said, adding that the activities at the fort also included interactive educational programmes for the youth and children. Nakhal Ahlia Investment Company boosted the efforts accorded on the fort through partnerships with institutions concerned with education and heritage and joint cooperation agreement signed in April 2025 with Oman Memory Centre for the launch of a permanent exhibition at the fort to shed light on biographies of Omani figures in the Wilayat of Nakhal. The exhibition would acquaint the visitors with over 100 prominent personalities including judges, scholars and book copy writers who were well known during the past centuries for serving the national heritage and their valuable manuscripts, documents and possessions. Organised by Oman Film Society, the fort also hosted the Al Batinah International Film Festival and also organised fine art exhibitions. The Omani women association participated, along with the members of the local community, in the different programmes and activities of the fort. Al Kindi said that Nakhal Ahlia Investment Company intends to introduce new cultural initiatives, workshops, seminars and forums. © Muscat Media Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Khaleej Times
6 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Moscow City Tourism Committee launches summer tourism campaign tailored to Middle Eastern visitors
The Moscow City Tourism Committee has officially announced its summer programme welcoming travelers from the Middle East, unveiling a curated series of cultural festivals, luxury experiences, and family-friendly events across the Russian capital. Designed to offer a refreshing escape from the Gulf heat, this season's calendar highlights Moscow's commitment to positioning itself as a premier destination for high-end tourism and cultural exploration. Moscow is alive with a rich calendar of cultural events that bring the city's spirit to life. The Moscow Estates Festival invites visitors to explore the city's heritage through immersive experiences across more than 40 historic estates. Meanwhile, Theatre Boulevard transforms 14 open-air venues into vibrant performance spaces for an unprecedented 92-day cultural celebration, featuring over 600 performances and more than 3,000 artists from Russia and beyond. The city also blooms with color during the Gardens and Flowers Festival, where rare plants and artistic floral displays beautify parks and public spaces, offering an ideal backdrop for summer strolls and photography. Art and movement also take center stage with the Street. Dance and Street. Art initiatives, where live dance, music sessions, art workshops, and free masterclasses animate central boulevards like Strastnoy. Throughout the season, Moscow's iconic parks come alive with diverse musical performances—from jazz to acoustic sets—complemented by newly designed picnic zones and family-friendly entertainment. International visitors can also explore 14 'Made in Moscow' art pavilions, offering locally crafted souvenirs and unique gifts. The Green Market showcases more than 700 top brands from the 'Made in Moscow' initiative. From cosmetics and home décor to sweets and pet goods, guests can shop in colorful art pavilions shaped like rockets, candy boxes, and balloons — open all summer and complemented by food courts, lectures, and creative workshops. Luxury and comfort await at Moscow's premium hotels, many of which offer spa and wellness services, private suites, and dedicated amenities for guests from the Gulf. Personalised experiences, including private guided tours of the Kremlin, Red Square, and the city's museums, create a tailored journey through Moscow's rich history and heritage. Families traveling with children will find a welcoming environment filled with attractions such as aquaparks, science centers, zoos, and sprawling parks like Gorky Park and VDNH. Culturally sensitive hospitality, including halal-certified dining, prayer rooms, and Arabic-speaking staff, ensures all guests feel at ease. Moscow also invites guests to explore its sophisticated shopping scene, from iconic department stores like GUM and TSUM to exclusive Russian designer boutiques and artisan markets. Whether one seeks high fashion or local craftsmanship, the city offers a shopping experience to match the world's style capitals. As Moscow's summer season comes alive with art, music, and celebration, the Moscow City Tourism Committee invites travelers from the Middle East to discover a city where timeless culture meets modern luxury — a place where unforgettable summer memories are made.
Times of Oman
03-06-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
Nakhal Fort becomes a hotspot for tourists
Nakhal: Nakhal Fort is one of the key tourism landmarks in South Al Batinah. The fort received, during the past few years, the attention and care of citizens and tourists, something that contributed to the cultural movement and tourism and empowered the youth and the participation of women and supported the crafts of the local community and tourism in the Wilayat of Nakhal. The operation of the fort in 2023, when the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism signed a 25- year agreement on the management of the fort with Nakhal Ahlia Investment Company, which gave the company the right to transform the fort into a tourism and entertainment destination that cope with the topography of the area and the Omani identity. The operators have, since 2023, launched different programmes and activities to change the fort into a must-visit destination throughout the year. Saud bin Khalfan Al Kindi, Chief Executive Officer of Nakhal Ahlia Investment Company, said that the number of visitors from within and outside the Sultanate of Oman to the fort amounted to 11,274 during the first quarter of 2025 including 1,731 Omanis and 9,543 visitors from other countries, in addition to 5,986 children aged below 7 years and school students who visited the fort free of charge. He said that the number of activities / events organised amounted to 10 covering all community programmes up to the end of March 2025. Following the agreement signing, the Nakhal Fort has changed into a ground for the cultural festivals and celebrations. After the completion of the renovation works, the fort hosted the First Nakhal Fort Forum, he said, adding that the activities at the fort also included interactive educational programmes for the youth and children. Nakhal Ahlia Investment Company boosted the efforts accorded on the fort through partnerships with institutions concerned with education and heritage and joint cooperation agreement signed in April 2025 with Oman Memory Centre for the launch of a permanent exhibition at the fort to shed light on biographies of Omani figures in the Wilayat of Nakhal. The exhibition would acquaint the visitors with over 100 prominent personalities including judges, scholars and book copy writers who were well known during the past centuries for serving the national heritage and their valuable manuscripts, documents and possessions. Organised by Oman Film Society, the fort also hosted the Al Batinah International Film Festival and also organised fine art exhibitions. The Omani women association participated, along with the members of the local community, in the different programmes and activities of the fort. Al Kindi said that Nakhal Ahlia Investment Company intends to introduce new cultural initiatives, workshops, seminars and forums.
Al Bawaba
06-05-2025
- Business
- Al Bawaba
Moscow Kicks Off the Summer Tourism Season for Visitors from Qatar
The Moscow City Tourism Committee's presentation emphasized Moscow's growing appeal as both a leisure and business tourism destination. Key initiatives for 2025, such as expanding halal tourism infrastructure, enhancing connectivity with the Middle East, and promoting the city's cultural offerings, were discussed in detail. As part of the event, a dedicated business mission was held, bringing together more than 100 representatives of the local Qatari tour operators and their Moscow counterparts. This session provided an excellent opportunity for networking, discussions on expanding tourism exchanges, and fostering partnerships that will benefit both regions. The business session focused on deepening collaboration, promoting new travel initiatives, and exploring opportunities for growth in the tourism sector. This event was a continuation of the series of the Moscow City Tourism Committee's business meeting on the Middle East, which took place in February 2025. 'We understand the importance of providing a comfortable and culturally sensitive environment, and we are constantly working to enhance our infrastructure to cater to the needs of our Arab visitors. During recent discussions, we reinforced our commitment to offering Halal-friendly dining options and Arabic-speaking support services, and we're particularly looking forward to the exciting summer months with its fantastic festivals, events and cultural offerings.' — said Magomed Mezhiev, Head of the International Cooperation Directorate. Moscow ensures a comfortable and welcoming experience for all its visitors, including those from the Arab world. During the business session, the city's tourism potential was discussed, with a particular emphasis on the vibrant summer season. Representatives of the Moscow City Tourism Committee highlighted the numerous festivals, events, and cultural celebrations planned, promising an unforgettable experience for visitors. A growing number of restaurants and cafes in Moscow are certified Halal, offering a variety of delicious and authentic cuisine. Dedicated tourist information centers staffed with Arabic-speaking professionals are available to assist with any needs, making navigation and planning effortless. For further details and upcoming events, visit
