Latest news with #FakhriyaalGhassani
Observer
10-06-2025
- Business
- Observer
More projects to diversify tourism
MUSCAT: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism is implementing an ambitious plan in 2025 to diversify tourism sectors and enhance recreational offerings through a series of high-quality projects. These initiatives, coordinated with the governors' offices across Oman's various governorates, fall under the broader framework of the comprehensive tourism development plan. They aim to strengthen tourism infrastructure and expand the range of experiences available to visitors. The ministry highlighted some of the most prominent projects, including the Recreational Slides Project, Al Ashkhara Gateway Project, Recreational Fishing Project, Mountain Slopes Project, Aromatic Tourism Experiences Project, Falaj Experience Activation Project, Adventure Tourism Initiatives and the Great Oman Journey Experience Project. Fakhriya al Ghassani, Director of the Product and Tourism Experiences Development Department at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, stated that these projects align with the objectives outlined in the comprehensive tourism development plan. They seek to enhance the quality of tourism offerings, boost competitiveness and provide unique opportunities and experiences across various destinations, she explained. She added that these efforts support increasing the contribution of non-oil sectors to the GDP, attract local and foreign investments to Oman and offer exceptional experiences for domestic, regional and international tourists while appealing to diverse demographic groups. 'Omani Cuisine and Culinary Arts Tourism" programme includes multiple initiatives such as documenting Omani cuisine and developing dedicated culinary tourism routes. These routes feature visits to traditional kitchens and restaurants serving authentic recipes, elevating Omani gastronomy as a key element of the tourism experience. She affirmed that the ministry continues to promote cultural tourism as a cornerstone for diversifying the tourism product and reinforcing national identity. The ministry launched the 'Omani Cuisine and Culinary Arts Tourism" programme, which includes multiple initiatives such as documenting Omani cuisine and developing dedicated culinary tourism routes. These routes feature visits to traditional kitchens and restaurants serving authentic recipes, elevating Omani gastronomy as a key element of the tourism experience. Al Ghassani lauded the pivotal role of Omani museums in showcasing history, culture and living heritage. The ministry, she said, is enhancing museum content through interactive digital displays, allowing visitors to engage deeply with Oman's rich civilisation. Museums serve as both educational and tourism institutions, blending physical exhibits with modern technology to present historical narratives in an engaging manner. She noted that statistics indicate significant growth in heritage site visitors. For instance, Al Dakhiliyah Governorate — home to landmarks such as Nizwa Fort and Jibreen Castle — welcomed over 415,000 visitors in 2024, marking a 32% increase compared to the previous year. This surge, she explained, is attributed to the development of heritage neighbourhoods, improved services and diversified tourism experiences. — ONA
Observer
26-05-2025
- Business
- Observer
'Oman's Adventure Tourism Experience' programme kicks off
MUSCAT: The "Oman's Adventure Tourism Experience" programme, organised by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism from May 25-28 commenced with the participation of a delegation from the Saudi Tourism Authority and several Saudi companies specialising in the tourism sector. The programme aims to showcase Oman's expertise in adventure tourism regulation and facilitate knowledge exchange with Omani companies operating in this field. This initiative falls within the framework of the strategic partnership between the Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, enhancing bilateral tourism cooperation — particularly in adventure tourism, which is witnessing rapid regional and international growth. Both countries boast diverse natural, geographical and geological environments, creating an ideal setting for this tourism segment. Fakhriya al Ghassani, Director of Product Development and Tourism Experiences at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, emphasised that the programme aligns with the ministry's efforts to regulate and develop adventure tourism under international standards and frameworks. This supports the goals of Oman Vision 2040 to diversify and sustain the tourism sector. She noted that the programme offers a platform to highlight licensed Omani companies' experiences, showcase the ministry's infrastructure and regulatory advancements and strengthen partnerships with the private sector. She underscored the importance of regional collaboration, particularly with Saudi Arabia, to boost mutual tourism and deliver integrated, enriching experiences for visitors. The opening ceremony featured a visual presentation by the ministry on Oman's adventure tourism landscape, alongside interactive showcases by leading Omani companies and adventurers. The first day also included a specialised exhibition where Omani firms displayed cutting-edge adventure equipment, emphasising compliance with international safety standards. The programme includes field visits to key tourist destinations, such as Al Jabal Al Akhdhar in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate. - ONA
