Muscat – The number of visitors to the Land of Frankincense sites in Al Baleed and Samharam Archaeological Parks, Wadi Dawkah Nature Reserve, and Wabar Archaeological Site in Dhofar Governorate reached 155,795, while the number of visitors to Taqah and Mirbat Forts reached 9,313 visitors during 2024.

Statistics issued by the Directorate General of Heritage and Tourism in Dhofar Governorate showed that Al Baleed Archaeological Park and the Frankincense Land Museum received 64,819 visitors last year, while the number of visitors to Samharam Archaeological Park reached 27,582 visitors, and the Wabar Archaeological Site (Niyabat Al Shisr) in the Wilayat of Thumrait received 13,394 visitors.

This total represents a 16% growth compared to 2023, reflecting the success of ongoing initiatives to enhance the tourism sector in the region. The increase in visitors is attributed to strategic efforts by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism to activate tourism events and improve the quality of experiences offered in Dhofar.

It is important to note that the third edition of the Frankincense Festival in late 2024 attracted over 50,000 visitors, underscoring the region’s growing appeal as a cultural and historical destination.
As part of continued growth, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism is finalising new usufruct contracts for hotel and tourism projects in Dhofar for 2025, with eight new hotel projects slated for construction.

These projects aim to further enhance the infrastructure and tourism facilities in the region, providing more investment opportunities and catering to both local and international visitors.

Additionally, the Land of Frankincense sites, including Al Baleed, Samharam, Wabar, and Wadi Dawkah, are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, adding to their international significance and attraction for heritage tourism.