Latest news with #AlDakhiliyah
Times of Oman
3 days ago
- Times of Oman
Al-Qash'a Village: A hidden gem for adventure and heritage tourism in Oman
Muscat: Al-Qash'a village in the Wilayat of Al Jabal Al Akhdar (Green Mountain) in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate is emerging as a rich destination for adventure tourism, distinguished by its exceptional terrain, unique geology, and a climate that remains moderate in summer and cold in winter. Geographical Charm and Agricultural Riches Nestled at the eastern foot of a towering mountain, Al-Qash'a village lies at the end of one of the longest mountain terraces on its western side. To its north, it overlooks the village of Al Ain, while to the south, it is bordered by the villages of Salut and Masirah Al Rawajeh. The village is renowned for its expansive agricultural terraces, which, akin to other villages in the Wilayat, are abundant with various fruit trees. These include pomegranates, walnuts, peaches, and apricots, alongside seasonal crops such as garlic and onions. Walid bin Saif Al Zakwani, a member of the Municipal Council in the Wilayat of Al Jabal Al Akhdar and a resident of the village, explained that the name "Al-Qash'a" originates from the rocks descending towards it from various directions. Another linguistic interpretation of the name refers to the clearing of clouds after they cover the sky—a poetic description fitting its enchanting relationship with nature. Historical Depth and Archaeological Significance Al Zakwani noted that the village holds numerous archaeological evidences, hinting at human settlement in the Green Mountain dating back to ancient times. Scattered throughout the village are ancient graves of unusual shapes and orientations, distinctly different from the Islamic style, suggesting their pre-Islamic origins, possibly even from the Paleolithic era. Some agricultural terraces have become fossilised due to geological and weather factors, indicating their immense antiquity. Traces of residential caves, complete with fire pits and smoke residue, further reinforce the hypothesis of ancient human habitation. Additionally, there are ancient stone buildings that warrant in-depth archaeological studies by relevant government agencies. The village's historical depth is further underscored by its historical monuments and several mosques, including Al-Bilad Mosque, Al-Wadi Mosque, Al-Jufrah Mosque, and Al-Hijrain Mosque. It is also sustained by a number of aflaj (ancient irrigation systems) and water springs that nourish its crops, such as Falaj La'our, Falaj Al-Ghuj, Falaj Azal, Falaj Al-Harf, Ain Al-Samna, Ain Al-Suwaib, and Ain Shadhan. Tourism Potential and Natural Wonders The harvest seasons for roses, pomegranates, and various fruits during the summer transform Al Jabal Al Akhdar, and Al-Qash'a village in particular, into a captivating tourist destination. These seasons offer visitors a diverse tourism product and an up-close insight into traditional and modern rose water production. Al Zakwani emphasized the significant economic viability of cultivating roses and pomegranates as a crucial income source for local farmers. Hamad bin Subaih Al-Zakwani, another resident, noted the village's recent emergence as a prominent tourist spot, especially for nature lovers in the summer. This is attributed to its enchanting waterfalls, such as Wadi Al-Ain Waterfall, Sharjat Al-Anbur Waterfall, and Kor Azk Waterfall. Its geological diversity, featuring metamorphic, sedimentary, and igneous rock formations; its unique caves and grottoes, like Lambrad Cave; and the rare growth of tropical trees locally known as "sugar" along Wadi Al-Ain, all distinguish Al-Qash'a from other mountain villages. The village also offers well-prepared hiking trails that wind through several valleys, ravines, and agricultural terraces, all set within a temperate Mediterranean climate. Prominent trails include Al-Lamd Road, Al-Sab Road, and Maslak Al-Magharat Road, which historically connected Al-Qash'a to neighboring villages and were vital transportation routes for residents in the past. Al-Zakwani concluded by affirming that the fruit harvest seasons in Jabal Akhdar State generally, and Al-Qash'a village specifically, significantly contribute to attracting tourists and visitors who come to explore the region's rich tourism potential through adventure, nature, and heritage tourism.
Zawya
3 days ago
- Climate
- Zawya
Temperatures soar to 48°C in Oman; health warnings issued
Muscat: Nizwa and Adam stations in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate has recorded the highest temperature in the Sultanate of Oman which 48 degrees Celsius. According to Oman Meteorology, Nizwa and Adam stations recorded a temperature rise of 48 degrees Celsius, followed by Al Qabil and Mahout stations, with temperatures reaching 47 degrees Celsius. Due to the high temperatures today, please avoid direct sunlight, especially during the afternoon, to prevent heat stroke. Heatstroke, heat exhaustion, and other symptoms associated with high temperatures are common, especially since many jobs and field activities require workers to be exposed to sunlight and high temperatures. To reduce and prevent heatstroke, it is recommended to: -Regulate and specify working hours so that there are breaks during peak temperatures. -Avoid exposure to direct sunlight, especially during the afternoon. -Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. -It is recommended to train workers and supervisors on how to handle heat strokes. © Muscat Media Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Times of Oman
4 days ago
- Climate
- Times of Oman
Temperatures soar to 48°C in Oman; health warnings issued
Muscat: Nizwa and Adam stations in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate has recorded the highest temperature in the Sultanate of Oman which 48 degrees Celsius. According to Oman Meteorology, Nizwa and Adam stations recorded a temperature rise of 48 degrees Celsius, followed by Al Qabil and Mahout stations, with temperatures reaching 47 degrees Celsius. Due to the high temperatures today, please avoid direct sunlight, especially during the afternoon, to prevent heat stroke. Heatstroke, heat exhaustion, and other symptoms associated with high temperatures are common, especially since many jobs and field activities require workers to be exposed to sunlight and high temperatures. To reduce and prevent heatstroke, it is recommended to: -Regulate and specify working hours so that there are breaks during peak temperatures. -Avoid exposure to direct sunlight, especially during the afternoon. -Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
Times of Oman
5 days ago
- General
- Times of Oman
Sultan Qaboos institute for Arabic language welcomes 26 international students
Manah: Sultan Qaboos Institute for Teaching Arabic to Non-Native Speakers in the Wilayat Manah, Al Dakhiliyah Governorate, welcomed 26 new students from the United Kingdom, the Comoros, Hungary, Brunei Darussalam, Pakistan, India, Vietnam, Tanzania, Ghana, and Iran. An orientation day was organised for the new cohort, beginning with an introductory session featuring the institute's academic and administrative staff, as well as supervisors of the cultural program designed for students. This was followed by a comprehensive tour of the institute's facilities and educational services. The orientation program included a visual presentation on Oman, highlighting its cultural, civilisational, and humanitarian features, as well as the elements that make the country a leading destination for Arabic language learning. Additionally, students received guidance to help them adapt and integrate into Omani society. Beyond Arabic language instruction, the academic programme offers diverse cultural and educational activities, including evening events, lectures, field trips to historical and natural sites, Arabic calligraphy lessons, and a 'Language Partner' initiative to enhance cultural and linguistic interaction with the local community. -ONA
Times of Oman
5 days ago
- Business
- Times of Oman
Consumer Price Index in Oman rises by 0.6% in May 2025
Muscat: The Consumer Price Index (CPI) in the Sultanate of Oman recorded a 0.6% increase in May 2025 compared to the same month last year, according to data released by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI). The report showed that personal goods and miscellaneous services led price increases with a 6.4% rise, followed by transportation (2.4%), and restaurants and hotels (1.4%). Health services saw a 0.8% increase, while clothing and footwear prices rose by 0.6%, and culture/entertainment by 0.3%. Education costs experienced a marginal 0.1% uptick. Conversely, food and non-alcoholic beverage prices decreased by 0.8%, while furniture/household equipment/maintenance costs fell by 0.2%. Housing/utilities/fuel and tobacco prices remained stable. Within the food category, sugar/jam/honey/sweets prices surged 3.7%, followed by other food products (3.6%). Dairy/cheese/egg prices increased 1.9%, oils/fats rose 1.8%, and meat prices edged up 0.2%. However, vegetable prices dropped significantly by 8.6%, with fish/seafood declining 2.3% and fruits decreasing 1.6%. In term of governorates, Al Dakhiliyah Governorate recorded the highest inflation rate at 1.5%, followed by Musandam (1.1%) and South Al Sharqiyah (1.0%). Al Buraimi (0.4%) and Dhofar (0.3%) showed more moderate increases, while South Al Batinah and North Al Sharqiyah experienced deflation of 0.4% and 0.1% respectively.
