MUSCAT : These projects aim to boost national identity, create sustainable economic opportunities, and transform the region into an attractive destination for investors and visitors.

His Excellency Sheikh Hilal bin Saeed Al Hajri, Governor of Al Dakhiliyah, emphasized the importance of building a solid foundation for the knowledge economy to foster sustainable development. He noted that these efforts would transform the governorate into a vital cultural and commercial hub in the future.

The projects aim to revive the governorate’s historical sites through restoration and development efforts, which have already resulted in a significant increase in visitor numbers. The number of visitors to castles and forts in the region surged from 312,200 in 2023 to more than 415,000 in 2024, representing a growth of 33 percent.

Among the ongoing projects is the rehabilitation of Bahla Souq and the development of the entrances to Jabreen and Basya, which is currently at a 5 percent completion rate. The Jabreen entrance development project focuses on improving the area around Jabreen Fort, a major historical landmark in Oman, by adding more parking spaces to accommodate the growing number of visitors.

The Governorate of Al Dakhiliyah is also involved in urban renewal initiatives, such as the old Al Hamra neighbourhood renewal project, which blends the governorate’s historical charm with the needs of the modern economy. The project aims to preserve Oman’s unique architectural heritage and create a sustainable model for urban renewal.

In addition, the Misfat Al Abriyeen neighbourhood in Al Hamra is set to undergo a significant transformation, including the construction of a glass bridge to facilitate access to nearby natural attractions. This development also includes the creation of safe pedestrian pathways, enhanced lighting, and improved public safety measures to provide a better visitor experience.

Other restoration efforts include the rapid progress of the Al Aqar neighbourhood paving project (20 percent complete) and the Al Aqar wall restoration (60 percent complete), both of which are expected to improve tourism infrastructure and provide investment opportunities in the cultural sector.

The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism plays a key role in these initiatives, focusing on preserving Oman’s historical sites and supporting citizens in restoring their heritage properties. The Ministry is also working to increase investments in these sites while organising events that raise awareness of the value of historical landmarks. These efforts aim to encourage citizens to invest in the restoration and preservation of their historic buildings, providing new job opportunities and attracting visitors.

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