MUSCAT, NOV 3
Adding to the heritage experience of Oman is Wajmah, the latest heritage destination in Oman, opening just in time for the winter season. The revival of a forgotten mountain village, offering a unique blend of authentic Omani heritage, nature, and hospitality, also celebrates the friendship between Oman and Lithuania.
The destination is located in Wadi Al Sahtan, in the Wilayat of Al Rustaq. This previously abandoned mountain village was restored while staying true to traditional materials and architecture.
The inauguration was held under the auspices of Sayyid Ibrahim bin Said al Busaidi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, on Sunday.
Nestled high in the Al Hajar Mountains overlooking Wadi Al Sahtan, Wajmah is a distinctive new entry on Oman's tourism map. The village has been brought back to life through an ambitious restoration project that preserves its authentic Omani character. Unlike newly built, heritage-style destinations, Wajmah is a historic village that was carefully restored stone by stone, with respect for its original architecture, traditions, and natural surroundings.
The project was initiated by Nicolas Ortiz, a Lithuanian investor whose admiration for Oman's landscape and cultural heritage inspired him to revive the forgotten settlement.
"Our vision was never simply to create another hotel, but to give a forgotten place a new beginning. We wanted to preserve what makes Wajmah special — its history, authenticity, architecture, and extraordinary natural surroundings — and share this unique part of Oman with the world," explained Nicolas Ortiz.
Wajmah's story began with a chance discovery when Jitka Mulacova, now the project manager of Wajmah Resort, stumbled upon the abandoned village while hiking high in the Al Hajar Mountains. At the heart of Wajmah stands Al Abri Home, a 130-year-old family house restored using natural materials while preserving its original character. Today, it offers an intimate mountain hospitality experience that combines traditional Omani architecture with understated contemporary comfort.
The project also serves as a bridge between Oman and Lithuania. Beyond its tourism potential, Wajmah represents a meaningful connection between the two countries and is an example of how international cooperation can support cultural preservation and responsible tourism while creating lasting connections between nations.
Boleta Senkiene, the founder's representative and Honorary Consul of Oman to Lithuania, was instrumental in bringing the project to life and strengthening ties between the two countries.
“We believe that initiatives like Wajmah can contribute to positioning Oman as an exceptional destination on the international tourism map, in line with Oman Vision 2040," noted Boleta Senkiene.
The official inauguration marks the beginning of a new chapter for Wajmah — transforming a once-forgotten village into a destination ready to welcome visitors from Oman and around the world.
The resort has its own herb garden, which supplies the kitchen with fresh ingredients. The kitchen also purchases za'atar and other produce from local farmers.
"With its combination of authentic heritage, dramatic natural scenery, privacy, and genuine Omani hospitality, Wajmah offers a refreshing alternative to conventional tourism destinations and invites visitors to discover a lesser-known side of Oman," said Jitka Mulacova.
Once at the resort, visitors can also meet two donkeys that helped during the restoration process, as transportation of materials was only possible using traditional methods. Today, they have their own space at the resort and enjoy a retired life.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
