MUSCAT – Thanks to ongoing efforts to develop tourism infrastructure and enhance the readiness of natural sites, Al Jabal Al Sharqi is emerging as a top tourism destination.

Of particular significance is the upcoming “Al Hamra Tourism 2025” event, which will be held from August 1 until August 30. The month-long event will feature diverse activities catering to all age groups, blending entertainment, adventure, and culture.

It should be noted that Al Jabal Al Sharqi is one of Oman’s most prominent tourist destinations, rising 2,000 meters above sea level with a moderate climate that attracts visitors year-round. Its combination of adventure and leisure opportunities makes it an ideal location for ecotourism and outdoor sports.

According to His Excellency Sheikh Hilal Said Al Hajri, Governor of A’Dakhiliyah, the governorate has prioritised the development of the Al Jabal Al Sharqi; it has been 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 highlighted 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 meters, the project includes a comprehensive range of tourism and service facilities, such as prayer halls for men and women, a 300-square-meter 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, he affirmed.

The Governor 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.

Highlighting the events scheduled for the “Al Hamra Tourism 2025” Sheikh Sulaiman Said Al Azri, Wali of Al Hamra, listed sunrise-viewing trips from mountain peaks, dedicated camping zone with fully equipped tents, and service facilities such as restrooms and power stations. In addition, visitors can look forward to exciting adventures such as mountain horse rides, designated hiking trails, and 4×4 vehicle tours to high-altitude peaks, alongside sports activities like trail running and cycling on carefully curated trails for nature and fitness enthusiasts.