Al Dakhiliyah sees 32.9 pc surge in heritage, tourism visitors
Al Dakhiliyah remains a prime tourism destination, renowned for its diverse geography and rich heritage sites
Published: 06:03 PM,Mar 22,2025 | EDITED : 10:03 PM,Mar 22,2025
Al Dakhiliyah is a top choice for both domestic and international travellers
NIZWA: The number of visitors to heritage and tourist attractions in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate surged to 415,081 in 2024, marking a 32.94 per cent increase from 312,243 visitors in 2023, according to the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism. Al Hoota Cave alone welcomed 39,981 visitors last year.
This growth is attributed to the enhanced promotion of historical districts like Harat Al Aqr in Nizwa and Harat Al Ain in Izki, along with increased tourist activity in Al Jabal Al Akhdhar, Al Jabal Al Sharqi and Misfat Al Abriyeen in Al Hamra.
Al Dakhiliyah remains a prime tourism destination in Oman, renowned for its diverse geography and rich heritage sites, including 63 castles and forts. Among them, Nizwa Fort, Jabreen Castle, Bahla Fort, and Bait Al Radidah Fort have been developed for tourism, while Samayil Fort has recently been offered for private sector investment.
According to Ahlam bint Hamad al Qasabiyah, Director of the Heritage and Tourism Department in Al Dakhiliyah, the governorate boasts 158 hospitality establishments offering 2,636 rooms, ranging from hotels and camps to heritage inns.
She emphasised the Ministry’s focus on preserving cultural heritage while promoting tourism investment, which creates jobs, empowers SMEs and supports artisans. Adventure tourism, agricultural experiences like pomegranate and rose seasons in Al Jabal Al Akhdhar and heritage crafts such as pottery and silverwork are key attractions.
Future initiatives include the Rose Trail project in Al Jabal Al Akhdhar and restoration of historic sites to enhance tourism appeal. The private sector’s growing role in hospitality and tourism, coupled with government support, is driving sustainable development in the region.
The department continues to facilitate tourism licencing and organise year-round events, including the Al Dakhiliyah Winter Festival, to showcase the governorate’s rich cultural and natural assets.
Additionally, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism's ongoing efforts to enhance infrastructure, streamline investment procedures and collaborate with the private sector have significantly contributed to the sector's expansion.
The development of historic neighbourhoods with immersive cultural experiences, coupled with eco-friendly initiatives and digital tourism promotions, has further positioned Al Dakhiliyah as a top choice for both domestic and international travellers. With its blend of adventure, heritage and sustainable tourism, the Al Dakhiliyah governorate continues to play a pivotal role in Oman’s vision for a thriving tourism industry. — ONA
This growth is attributed to the enhanced promotion of historical districts like Harat Al Aqr in Nizwa and Harat Al Ain in Izki, along with increased tourist activity in Al Jabal Al Akhdhar, Al Jabal Al Sharqi and Misfat Al Abriyeen in Al Hamra.
Al Dakhiliyah remains a prime tourism destination in Oman, renowned for its diverse geography and rich heritage sites, including 63 castles and forts. Among them, Nizwa Fort, Jabreen Castle, Bahla Fort, and Bait Al Radidah Fort have been developed for tourism, while Samayil Fort has recently been offered for private sector investment.
According to Ahlam bint Hamad al Qasabiyah, Director of the Heritage and Tourism Department in Al Dakhiliyah, the governorate boasts 158 hospitality establishments offering 2,636 rooms, ranging from hotels and camps to heritage inns.
She emphasised the Ministry’s focus on preserving cultural heritage while promoting tourism investment, which creates jobs, empowers SMEs and supports artisans. Adventure tourism, agricultural experiences like pomegranate and rose seasons in Al Jabal Al Akhdhar and heritage crafts such as pottery and silverwork are key attractions.
Future initiatives include the Rose Trail project in Al Jabal Al Akhdhar and restoration of historic sites to enhance tourism appeal. The private sector’s growing role in hospitality and tourism, coupled with government support, is driving sustainable development in the region.
The department continues to facilitate tourism licencing and organise year-round events, including the Al Dakhiliyah Winter Festival, to showcase the governorate’s rich cultural and natural assets.
Additionally, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism's ongoing efforts to enhance infrastructure, streamline investment procedures and collaborate with the private sector have significantly contributed to the sector's expansion.
The development of historic neighbourhoods with immersive cultural experiences, coupled with eco-friendly initiatives and digital tourism promotions, has further positioned Al Dakhiliyah as a top choice for both domestic and international travellers. With its blend of adventure, heritage and sustainable tourism, the Al Dakhiliyah governorate continues to play a pivotal role in Oman’s vision for a thriving tourism industry. — ONA