Saint Petersburg: The deal was formalized during Oman’s participation at the 11th International Forum of United Cultures in Saint Petersburg.

The new Hermitage branch in Oman will serve as a hub for cultural and knowledge exchange in the fields of heritage and museums. It will promote cooperation in exhibitions, academic research, archaeological missions, and educational programs. The partnership will also provide technical expertise, annual exhibitions, capacity-building initiatives, and international networking opportunities.

His Excellency Salem bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Oman’s Minister of Heritage and Tourism, who headed the delegation, emphasized that the project will attract Russian archaeological missions and help transfer expertise in museum management. He noted that it aligns with Oman’s long-standing role as a bridge for dialogue, cultural exchange, and peacebuilding.

In his remarks at the forum, Al Mahrouqi underscored Oman’s belief in pluralism and cultural diversity, rejecting attempts to impose a “unified model” on societies. He highlighted Oman’s heritage of positive neutrality in international relations, pointing to culture and tourism as essential tools for fostering understanding between nations.

On the sidelines of the forum, the Omani delegation also met with leading Russian companies and heritage officials to discuss cooperation in tourism, supported by the recent mutual visa exemption agreement.

The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has already stepped up promotion in Russia, opening a representative office in 2024 and signing nine cooperation agreements with tourism partners this year. These efforts have paid off, with tourist arrivals from Russia surging by 87 percent in the first seven months of 2025, reaching 41,128 visitors compared to 21,991 during the same period last year.

The Hermitage Museum, based in St. Petersburg, is one of the world’s largest and oldest museums, housing over 3 million works of art and with branches in Amsterdam, London, Las Vegas, and Ferrara.