Muscat: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MoHT), in collaboration with national entities, inaugurated the fourth edition of the Omani Geological Heritage Exhibition under the theme 'Sustainability and Job Opportunities' at Al Hazm Fort in the Wilayat of Al Rustaq, Al Batinah South Governorate. Running until June 2025, the exhibition showcases Oman’s geological diversity through an immersive cultural and educational experience.
The event, graced by Eng Masoud bin Said al Hashmi, Governor of Al Batinah South, aligns with Oman Vision 2040, emphasising the role of heritage sites in local tourism and sustainable development.
Said bin Hareb al Obaidani, Director-General of Museums at the Ministry, highlighted the exhibition’s timing with campaigns like 'Change the Atmosphere in Al Batinah South' and the 'Experience Al Batinah South' festival, designed to attract diverse visitors, including families, students and academics.
The exhibition highlights include six main corners detail Oman’s geological story, featuring:
The story of geological heritage: A narrative of Oman’s geological evolution.
Unique fossils: Including an 800-million-year-old specimen.
3D models: Primitive elephants and extinct dinosaurs, with discovery site details.
Al Batinah South geology: Showcasing local geological marvels.
Sustainability of geological heritage: Linking it to national identity.
Job opportunities: Exploring careers in geological tourism.
Interactive displays and rare artefacts, such as fossilised dinosaur remains and primitive elephant teeth, enhance the visitor experience.
Eng Hussain bin Ali al Ghafri emphasised the dual goals of education and economic growth through geological tourism. The exhibition fosters opportunities for small and medium enterprises, tour operators and local guides, promoting investment in geological sites while preserving them for future generations.
The exhibition reinforces Oman’s global reputation as a destination rich in heritage and tourism potential, inspiring a balance between preservation and economic growth.
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