Muscat – Hosted by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, the launch of the Arab Tourism Photo Program of the Year aims to showcase the historical and archaeological richness of Oman while promoting global understanding of heritage diversity and cultural interaction.
Under the theme “Discover and Experience Diversity,” the celebrations highlight the significance of historical and archaeological sites, as well as community culture in Sur, as integral components of cultural tourism.
H.E. Eng. Ibrahim bin Saeed Al Kharousi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Heritage, emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting Oman’s ancient cultural heritage, stating, “Through this celebration, the Sultanate of Oman enhances the global understanding of the diversity of heritage and encourages cultural interaction among different people.”
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The festivities, held at the City Walk Center in South Al Sharqiyah Governorate, featured an exhibition, educational workshops for children on archaeological excavation techniques, decoupage workshops, and displays of traditional Omani souvenirs. These activities aimed to raise awareness about the importance of heritage preservation and foster a sense of belonging to Oman’s rich cultural legacy.
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has been dedicated to safeguarding Oman’s heritage through documentation, restoration efforts, and archaeological excavations. With approximately 36,000 registered archaeological sites, 3,525 historical monuments, and 366 restored monuments across all governorates, Oman aims to protect its cultural heritage for future generations while leveraging these sites for economic growth in alignment with Oman Vision 2040.
World Heritage Day, proposed by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) in 1982 and later approved by UNESCO in 1983, serves as a global reminder of the importance of preserving humanity’s cultural heritage. It underscores the shared responsibility among nations to safeguard and promote the diversity of heritage worldwide.
As Oman continues to celebrate its cultural richness and heritage, initiatives like the Arab Tourism Capital Photo Program and events like World Heritage Day play a crucial role in fostering appreciation and understanding of the Sultanate’s historical legacy on both regional and global stages.
