Nizwa inaugurates fourth phase of historic Al Aqur Wall restoration

NIZWA: Nizwa on Sunday inaugurated the fourth phase of the restoration and revival of the historic Al Aqur Wall, as part of ongoing efforts to preserve cultural heritage and enhance tourism and cultural development.
The ceremony was held under the auspices of Ahmed bin Saleh al Rashdi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs.
Al Aqur Wall is one of Nizwa’s most prominent historical landmarks, stretching along the old quarter where mud houses and stone structures stand side by side, reflecting centuries of architectural heritage and daily life. Following the restoration, the wall now offers visitors a vivid glimpse into the past while preserving its authentic Omani architectural identity.
Sulaiman bin Mohammed al Sulaimani, Representative of the Al Aqur Endowment, said the achievements were the result of strong community cooperation and genuine partnerships among residents.
“The support provided by the community ensured the continuity and progress of the work, affirming that this project represents loyalty to the efforts of our ancestors and serves as a foundation for further developmental initiatives that have positively impacted several villages, wilayats and governorates across Oman,” he said.
Ishaq bin Hilal al Sharyani, Adviser to the Al Aqur Endowment, described the project as a national model of community-driven development.
“Investment in people and place is a key pillar of sustainable development,” he said.

He added that rehabilitation works launched in 2023 included the restoration of more than 89 houses and the establishment of over 81 youth-led commercial projects, creating more than 400 direct job opportunities. These efforts were supported by community investments of approximately RO 9 million and attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors.
Al Sharyani highlighted effective partnerships with the private sector, praising OQ as a leading example of corporate social responsibility, alongside other entities that contributed to the project’s success.
The fourth phase involved restoring approximately 84 per cent of the original length of the historic wall using traditional materials consistent with its heritage character. Works also included upgrading surrounding pathways to improve visitor access, installing night lighting to highlight architectural details, and introducing artistic murals inspired by the site’s cultural memory, in cooperation with small and medium enterprises and through voluntary participation.
Visitors expressed appreciation for the project’s role in reviving the area’s historical identity. Sultan al Junaibi, an elderly resident, said: “Al Aqur Wall is part of our lives and memories. I am glad that the needs of the elderly and people with disabilities were considered through the construction of an elevator. What we see today brings back the image of Nizwa as we once knew it.”
The project aims to strengthen Nizwa’s position as a leading cultural and tourism destination by transforming the historic site into a vibrant space that blends heritage preservation with economic opportunity, while empowering youth and entrepreneurs.