AL HAMRA: Al Jabal Al Sharqi (The Eastern Mountain) is witnessing a qualitative transformation that positions it as a key contributor to domestic tourism and local community empowerment, thanks to ongoing efforts to develop tourism infrastructure and enhance the readiness of natural sites.
Shaikh Hilal bin Said al Hajri, Governor of Al Dakhiliyah, affirmed that the governorate has prioritised the development of the Al Jabal Al Sharqi, working to create an integrated tourism environment that meets visitors’ expectations while adhering to sustainable environmental standards. He noted that the governorate, in cooperation with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, is improving service efficiency, regulating visitor traffic, and ensuring smooth entry and exit to guarantee a balanced and safe tourism experience.
He said the “Al Jabal Al Sharqi Oasis” project as one of the most prominent development initiatives in the governorate. The project’s tender was floated last April, and bids are currently under review. Spanning 10,000 square metres, the project includes a comprehensive range of tourism and service facilities, such as prayer halls for men and women, a 300-square-metre investment restaurant, an outdoor theatre, 13 seating canopies, pedestrian walkways, open spaces and service amenities designed to enhance the site’s year-round appeal.
He emphasised that this project embodies the practical implementation of Oman Vision 2040 through high-quality initiatives that leverage the geographical and environmental uniqueness of each wilayat. The focus on sustainable tourism sites goes hand in hand with direct support for entrepreneurs and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs), which play a pivotal role in service delivery and generating economic opportunities for citizens.
The Governor of Al Dakhiliyah stated that Al Jabal Al Sharqi is a year-round destination, particularly for camping and adventure enthusiasts, necessitating infrastructure capable of accommodating this demand. He affirmed that the governorate’s development vision relies on engaging local communities in project implementation and fostering an enabling environment for youth initiatives, thereby promoting an entrepreneurial culture in the tourism sector.
Shaikh Sulaiman bin Said al Azri, Wali of Al Hamra, said that the “Al Hamra Tourism 2025” event will kick off on August 1 in Al Jabal Al Sharqi, running until August 30. The event, he pointed out, features a packed programme of diverse activities catering to all age groups, blending entertainment, adventure and culture. — ONA
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
