AL MUSANNAH: Since its opening in January, the Al Khamis Wall and Tower has drawn approximately 9,866 visitors from various nationalities by the end of April. This surge in tourism follows the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism's initiative to assign the landmark to the private sector, emphasising cultural heritage sustainability and local economic empowerment.
Badriya bint Mubarak Al Busaidiyah, Director of the Department of Castles, Forts, and Historical Monuments at the General Directorate of Antiquities, highlighted the Ministry’s strategy to enhance cultural sites. This includes creating job opportunities, fostering small and medium enterprises, and providing platforms for local craftsmen. The Ministry's collaboration with private sector companies aims to diversify tourism products and emphasize Omani cultural heritage.
Engineer Saif bin Saeed Al Khamisi, Chairman of Hisn Al Khairat Trading Company, described the landmark's features, which include an outdoor mosque, a modern museum representing Musannah’s marine, agricultural, and Bedouin environments, and a tower symbolising Omani identity with traditional elements like swords, daggers, and embroidered carpets. The site also offers a coffee corner, visitor seating, and a stage for cultural events, enhancing the visitor experience and celebrating Musannah's heritage.
The diverse activities hosted at the landmark's main square underscore the rich heritage and cultural traditions of Musannah, featuring traditional costumes, folk arts, poetry evenings, and various community events.
These efforts reinforce the connection between the local community and their environment, showcasing the authentic Omani cultural heritage to a broader audience. - ONA
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