Muscat: Sur, a wilayat in the South Al Sharqiyah Governorate of Oman, has been chosen as the Capital of Arab Tourism for the year 2024. This decision was made during the 26th session of the Arab Ministerial Council for Tourism, which took place in Doha, the capital of Qatar.
The selection of Sur was based on several criteria, including the presence of well-developed infrastructure and abundant tourism resources. The wilayat offers diverse tourism patterns and activities, and has implemented policies and directions to preserve the environment. Moreover, Sur boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage, with numerous archaeological sites dating back to different time periods. Many of these sites have been recognized and included in the World Heritage List and the Preliminary List. Additionally, Sur is blessed with natural attractions such as beautiful beaches, valleys, springs, caves, and natural reserves, which attract tourists from both within and outside of Oman.
This selection is a testament to the efforts made by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, in collaboration with relevant authorities, to develop the tourism sector across the various governorates of Oman. The ministry has been working diligently to implement tourism development plans and organize programs and events to stimulate tourism. Furthermore, there is a strong emphasis on raising awareness about the principles of sustainability in heritage and tourist sites and landmarks. The involvement of the local community and the utilization of modern means of promotion are also key strategies to promote and benefit from these sites.
This decision presents a significant opportunity to showcase and promote the Sultanate of Oman and specifically the wilayat of Sur as a vibrant destination that offers tourists unparalleled experiences rooted in its ancient cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. The Ministry will soon unveil a year-long celebration program to mark this occasion.
His Excellency Azzan bin Qasim Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Tourism, stated in an interview with the Oman News Agency that the selection of the wilayat of Sur is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and other relevant stakeholders in hosting this prestigious event. The wilayat of Sur boasts a wealth of heritage, cultural, and tourism assets.
He further elaborated that the Ministry will organize a series of activities to commemorate this momentous occasion and will also facilitate the launch of several investment projects in the area. His Excellency emphasized that the Ministry, in coordination with the South Al Sharqiyah Governorate Office and both public and private sectors, will organize various festivals and explore potential investment opportunities in the tourism sector to complement this significant achievement.
During the meeting, several important topics were discussed, including support for the Palestinian economy in the tourism sector, the implementation of the International Code for the Protection of Tourists in the Middle East, the enhancement of education and training standards in the region, the development of collaborative regional tourism products, the promotion of Arab environmental cooperation in tourism, the enrichment of Arab consumer and tourist culture, and the activation of joint tourism initiatives. Additionally, the meeting addressed the comprehensive nature of contemporary Arab tourist destinations, the impact of climate change on the tourism sector, the creation of forums to stimulate tourism, and the evaluation of nominated capitals for the title of Arab Tourism Capital.
In his address at the meeting, His Excellency Mr. Saad bin Ali Al Kharji, President of Qatar Tourism, emphasized the significance of this gathering in fostering collaboration among Arab societies and paving the way for a vibrant and prosperous future in the Arab tourism industry.
Furthermore, he highlighted the approval of the unified tourist visa by the Supreme Council of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf as a crucial milestone towards realizing the Council's vision of enhancing cooperation and strengthening bonds among member states. He also noted that this visa will facilitate cultural and social exchange among member states, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation. Moreover, it will have a positive impact on bolstering economic ties and promoting development and prosperity not only in the tourism sector but also across various other fields in the entire region.
