MUSCAT: Omanis have long demonstrated their ability to adapt to challenging terrains, carving pathways through high mountains, constructing homes from their rocks, and establishing roads and trails that endure to this day. Preserving these ancient paths, Oman has transformed them into a paradise for adventure and exploration enthusiasts.
The Darbak platform is a cornerstone of adventure tourism in Oman, emerging as a leading Omani company focused on promoting this sector.
Widely popular among both Omanis and foreign tourists, Darbak capitalises on the diverse and picturesque landscapes of the Omani environment.
Jassim bin Mohammed al Alawi, CEO of Darbak, told ONA, “The company was conceived to create a platform that facilitates access to service providers, whether individuals or companies, offering a multitude of activities and experiences. These include natural adventure tourism such as mountain climbing, diving, and sea trips, as well as sports and diverse artistic and cultural activities.”
Founded at the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, Darbak turned the global crisis into an opportunity for growth and evaluation amidst minimal local competition.
Despite the challenging times, the platform thrived, collaborating with about 72 tourism companies and offering approximately 131 unique experiences and activities across various governorates in Oman.
About the selection process for adventure sites, Al Alawi mentions that the Darbak team rigorously tests new locations to assess their suitability in terms of difficulty and safety before featuring them on the platform.
Darbak has achieved significant success locally, winning the ‘Scale’ award at the 33rd Comex International Technology Exhibition, which honours the best emerging technology companies.
The platform is supported by the Oman Technology Fund, which invests in promising tech projects, and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority, which provides essential workshops and participation in local conferences and forums.
Al Alawi also revealed the company’s aspiration to expand beyond Oman, a goal already in motion through partnerships with Saudi and Kuwaiti companies.
Darbak exemplifies a promising company contributing to financial sustainability and enriching the tourism sector, thereby fostering economic prosperity. – ONA
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