MUSCAT – The Department of Heritage and Tourism is implementing a comprehensive plan to enhance the visitor experience and reinforce the region’s status as a premier tourism destination in Oman.

Nawfal bin Mohammed Al Kamzari, Assistant Director of the Heritage and Tourism Department in Musandam, stated that the department is focusing on several key measures, including intensified field inspections targeting tourism companies, establishments, and hotels to ensure compliance with approved standards and the delivery of high-quality services to tourists.

As part of its seasonal strategy, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism is also working closely with stakeholders to promote the ‘Winter Musandam’ event, organised by the Musandam Governor’s Office. The event aims to showcase the governorate’s diverse tourism offerings, from its rugged mountains and fjords to rich heritage and cultural landmarks.

Speaking to the Oman News Agency, Al Kamzari noted that a temporary tourist information centre has been activated at Khasab Port to coincide with the cruise season. The centre provides maps, guidance, and essential services to cruise passengers arriving in Musandam. Coordination is ongoing with relevant authorities to streamline procedures and ensure a seamless experience for all visitors.

Al Kamzari confirmed that the Ministry continues its efforts to develop Musandam’s tourism infrastructure, with a number of strategic projects currently underway or in the pipeline. The Visitor Center in Dibba is a key project, which will offer integrated services for tourists and serve as an introduction to the natural, cultural, and historical attractions in the area.

Another is the Pearl of Khasab, a major integrated tourism complex being developed through a partnership between the Ministry and Khasab Development and Investment Company (Sandan). The project is expected to be a transformative addition to the governorate’s tourism landscape.

The Ras Amud Tourist Resort, a unique eco-tourism destination that is set amidst a picturesque natural environment, offering accommodation and recreational experiences, is also expected to enhance the Governorate’s profile, as is the new tourist hotel in Bukha.

In addition, the Ministry is preparing to offer new tourist plots to investors and will soon initiate restoration and maintenance works at Khasab and Bukha forts—a step aimed at preserving the region’s rich historical heritage while enhancing the appeal of heritage tourism.

Musandam continues to attract growing numbers of tourists, particularly through cruise tourism. In 2024 alone, 45 cruise ships docked in the governorate, bringing in 58,267 tourists. Meanwhile, heritage sites such as castles and forts welcomed approximately 17,413 visitors.