MUSCAT, JAN 5
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MoHT) concluded the Wilayat of Sur's tenure as the Arab Tourism Capital for 2024 with a grand celebration, highlighting the launch of the exploratory expedition Sultanate of Oman: Jewel of the Arabs. Key officials attended the event, held under the auspices of Salim bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, representing both the public and private sectors in Al Sharqiyah South Governorate. Throughout the year, Sur’s executive programme featured a variety of events and activities that attracted tourists from within and outside the Sultanate of Oman. Key highlights included the Meteorite Exhibition in the Wilayat of Sur, showcasing a rare collection of meteorites, and the meteor observation devices project, which contributes to documenting meteorite activity in the region. These initiatives reinforce Oman’s position as a unique scientific and tourist destination. In celebration of World Heritage Day, the Ministry hosted an event featuring a visual presentation of its heritage preservation efforts, an exhibition on Sur’s historical landmarks, and outlets for local entrepreneurs. Educational workshops on archaeological excavation further enhanced awareness of Sur's rich history. Sur’s tourism potential was further showcased through the Sur Marine Sports Festival, which included sailing, parasailing, swimming races, and traditional boat rowing championships. The White Sails event, celebrating World Tourism Day, offered workshops on traditional shipbuilding and exhibitions of marine photography, providing insight into Sur's rich maritime heritage. The programme also included training courses on tourism entrepreneurship, tourist guidance, and rescue skills in open waters, empowering the local community and enhancing safety and service quality in tourism.
The Sur Maritime Heritage Festival brought the region's maritime history to the forefront, attracting visitors with its cultural, artistic and sports events. It also provided a platform for local artisans to showcase their handicrafts. The crowning event was the announcement of the Sultanate of Oman: Jewel of the Arabs expedition. Led by British explorer Mark Evans and joined by young Omanis and Britons, the 30-day journey will span from Al Suwaih Beach in the Wilayat of Sur through the governorates of Al Sharqiyah North, Al Wusta and Dhofar. The expedition aims to raise global awareness of Oman’s cultural and natural heritage while addressing environmental sustainabilit.
Sur’s selection as the Arab Tourism Capital for 2024 was based on its rich cultural and historical assets, infrastructure, and tourism potential, including its World Heritage-listed sites. This programme reflects the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism’s commitment to developing the Sultanate of Oman’s tourism sector, promoting its cultural and natural beauty and positioning it as a premier global destination.
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