Muscat: Sohar International has successfully concluded its participation as the Main Sponsor of the Salut Heritage Race, held in the village of Bisya in Wilayat Bahla, amid historic and archaeological landmarks that reflect the depth of Oman’s rich heritage. The race offered a distinctive sporting experience that brought together competitive spirit, cultural authenticity, and natural beauty. Sohar International’s sponsorship of the event reflects its ongoing commitment to supporting community and sports initiatives, promoting healthy lifestyles, and showcasing the heritage and tourism assets across the Sultanate’s governorates—reinforcing the Bank’s vision of advancing sustainable development and active community engagement.

The Salut Heritage Race marked the conclusion of Bahla Winter Festival 2026, attracting broad participation with 1,150 male and female runners across various age groups, alongside strong public attendance estimated at approximately 4,000 spectators. The event stood out as a sports and tourism showcase that harmoniously blended athletic competition with the historical significance of the location.

Commenting on the sponsorship, Abdulwahid Mohamed Al Murshidi, Chief Executive Officer of Sohar International, said: “Sohar International’s sponsorship of the Salut Heritage Race forms part of a broader strategic vision grounded in the belief that sustainable development is closely linked to empowering local communities, activating place-based economies, and fostering experiences that connect people with identity and heritage. Through supporting such initiatives, we aim to contribute to an integrated ecosystem that stimulates local economic activity, promotes cultural tourism, and creates long-term value for Oman’s governorates—reflecting the role of the financial sector as an active partner in both social and economic growth.”

The race featured multiple distances designed to accommodate different age groups and abilities, including 1 km for children aged 6–8, 3 km for ages 9–12, as well as 5 km and 10 km races for older participants. This inclusive format enabled wide community participation and reflected a strong family-oriented and community-driven spirit.

Organised under the supervision of Himam Adventure, the race routes for the 1 km and 3 km distances were set within the Salut Centre, while the 5 km and 10 km races commenced from the centre, passing through the village of Bisya and ascending the adjacent mountain, before concluding at the Salut Centre—offering participants a course that highlighted the area’s natural landscapes and archaeological character.

The event was supported by four government entities and five sponsoring companies, in addition to the participation of 23 productive families through the accompanying exhibition. This contributed to supporting community initiatives, promoting handicrafts and home-based businesses, and adding a comprehensive economic and social dimension to the event.

Through its diverse sponsorships, Sohar International continues to play an active role in supporting cultural, sports, and community events across the Sultanate. Recent engagements include support for Muscat Nights, regional festivals, community sports events, and seasonal tourism initiatives such as Khareef Dhofar, reflecting the Bank’s sustained commitment to strengthening community engagement, stimulating local economies, and enhancing quality of life.

Through these initiatives, Sohar International reaffirms its role as a national financial partner supporting sports, empowering community-driven initiatives, and strengthening the connection between people and place—reinforcing values of health, participation, and belonging across the Sultanate of Oman.