What’s Behind the Remarkable Thirty-Two Point Ninety-Four Percent Increase in Tourism to Oman’s Dakhliyah Region?

Thursday, March 20, 2025

Nizwa

The Department of Heritage and Tourism has been facilitating tourism licensing processes and organizing year-round events to support the growing tourism sector in Dakhliyah Governorate. According to the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, the number of visitors to heritage and tourist sites in the region saw a significant rise in 2024, reaching 415,081 visitors, marking a 32.94% increase from the previous year’s 312,243. This surge in tourist numbers is attributed to several factors, including the increasing appeal of heritage neighborhoods and popular attractions spread across the region.

Growth in Visitor Numbers and Key Attractions

Among the many sites attracting tourists, Al Hoota Cave stood out as one of the most popular attractions, with 39,981 visitors in 2024. This increase in tourism was partly attributed to the growing recognition and interest in various heritage neighborhoods like Harat al Aqar in Nizwa and Harat al Ain in Izki. These neighborhoods have become significant cultural hubs, bringing attention to the region’s rich history and traditional architecture. Additionally, nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts have been drawn to scenic destinations like Jabal Akhdar, Jabal Sharqi, and Misfat al Abriyeen in Al Hamra.

Historical Landmarks and Investments in Tourism

Ahlam Hamad al Qasabi, the Director of the Heritage and Tourism Department in Dakhliyah, emphasized that the region is home to 63 castles and forts, with several key landmarks actively receiving investments. Prominent landmarks such as Nizwa Fort, Jabreen Castle, Bahla Fort, and Bait al Rudaydah Castle have been the focus of preservation and enhancement efforts. Moreover, Samail Fort has been made available for private sector investment, further encouraging tourism-related initiatives.

The increase in investment in historical landmarks aligns with the Ministry’s efforts to preserve and sustain the region’s rich cultural heritage. These initiatives also aim to create both direct and indirect job opportunities for the local community. Furthermore, they empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and local artisans, offering them opportunities to contribute to the tourism sector and enrich the visitor experience through Omani craftsmanship.

Expanding Accommodation Options

By the end of 2024, Dakhliyah will boast a total of 158 hotel establishments, ranging from hotels to camps, hotel apartments, rest houses, guesthouses, and heritage and green inns. These accommodations will offer around 2,636 rooms for visitors. This expansion reflects the rising demand for lodging options, driven by the growing influx of tourists to the area.

The new accommodations not only serve the needs of visitors but also support the local economy by creating additional employment opportunities and fostering sustainable tourism. The expansion also complements efforts to maintain the integrity of the region’s cultural heritage sites, ensuring that tourism growth aligns with preservation objectives.

Adventure Tourism and Seasonal Experiences

In addition to cultural heritage tourism, adventure tourism has been a key draw for visitors, with Jabal Akhdar offering seasonal agricultural experiences. Tourists are particularly attracted to activities such as the pomegranate, rose, and peach harvests, which provide a unique opportunity to engage with local traditions and farming practices. These seasonal activities not only support the local agricultural economy but also allow visitors to connect with the region’s natural beauty and traditional lifestyles.

Traditional neighborhoods, showcasing Omani culture, continue to captivate visitors. In particular, the local craftsmanship, including pottery and silverware, has become a highlight of the region’s cultural tourism. Tourists flock to these areas to experience authentic Omani art forms and purchase handmade goods, further promoting the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Department of Heritage and Tourism’s Future Plans

The Department of Heritage and Tourism is actively working to ensure the sustained growth of the tourism industry in Dakhliyah. One of the key initiatives planned for the future is the development of the Rose Pathway in Jabal Akhdar, which aims to create a dedicated space to showcase the region’s famous rose cultivation and its cultural significance. Along with this, the restoration of several historical landmarks and mosques will enhance the appeal of the region’s heritage sites, making them more accessible and engaging for tourists.

These efforts are expected to further strengthen Dakhliyah’s position as a key tourist destination, offering visitors a unique blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. By preserving the region’s heritage and investing in its tourism infrastructure, the Department of Heritage and Tourism aims to enhance the overall tourism experience while fostering sustainable growth and development.

Global Impact on Travelers

The rise in tourism to Dakhliyah and the surrounding regions will have a significant global impact, as travelers are increasingly seeking authentic, culturally rich experiences. The expansion of heritage sites, adventure tourism offerings, and seasonal agricultural experiences will attract a wide range of international visitors, including history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking to immerse themselves in local cultures.

For the Omani tourism industry, the growth in visitor numbers will result in greater international recognition, bringing economic benefits to local businesses and communities. Moreover, the emphasis on sustainable tourism practices ensures that the development of the region’s infrastructure and offerings will continue to preserve the cultural and environmental integrity of the area for future generations.