Oman’s North A’Sharqiyah Governorate is preparing for the 2026/2027 winter tourism season, with government institutions and private-sector partners working to improve tourism sites, expand accommodation options and enhance visitor services.
The preparations aim to showcase the governorate’s diverse
natural, historical and heritage attractions, positioning it as a key
destination for domestic and international tourists during the winter months,
reported Oman News Agency.
Sumaya Al Busaidi, Director of the Heritage and Tourism
Department in North A’Sharqiyah Governorate, said efforts were underway to
prepare tourism sites, develop accommodation facilities and organise a varied
programme of events and activities.
The governorate offers a mix of golden sand dunes, green
oases, wadis, water pools, castles, forts and historic neighbourhoods,
providing opportunities for adventure, cultural exploration and nature-based
tourism.
According to Ministry of Heritage and Tourism statistics,
the governorate has approximately 111 operating accommodation establishments
across different classifications, offering around 1,363 rooms.
These include hotels, resorts, rest houses, eco-lodges,
guest houses, heritage inns and tourism camps, particularly in the sandy areas
of Bidiya and Al Qabil.
Al Busaidi said the range of accommodation options
strengthens the governorate’s ability to meet visitor demand, while
improvements to infrastructure and tourism services aim to support domestic
tourism and prepare destinations for the winter season.
The Wilayat of Bidiya is among the region’s leading
attractions, drawing visitors with its desert landscapes, tourism camps and
adventure activities.
Wadi Bani Khalid is
another prominent destination, known for its water pools, Majlis Al Jinn Cave,
historic Al Aweina Mosque, Al Adfin Fort and Hawar Waterfalls.
The Wilayat of Ibra offers historical and cultural
attractions, including its Wednesday popular market, the villages of Al
Manzafah and Al Qanatar, the Two Qiblas Mosque, Bait Al Darwaza Museum, Qafifah
Dam and Safari World Park.
Meanwhile, Dima Wa Al Tayeen features water pools, flowing
wadis, Al Hammam Fort and natural destinations such as Samout, Al Shakharah and
Al Ghabrah parks.
Al Qabil attracts visitors interested in winter camping,
desert activities and adventure tourism, while Al Mudhaibi offers historical
landmarks, including Al Rawdah and Bait Al Khabib forts, alongside Al Hawra and
Wadi Andam parks. Sinaw is known for its heritage attractions, particularly its
popular market and the archaeological quarters of Al Sawawifah and Al
Barashidah.
To improve access and visitor awareness, the Ministry of
Heritage and Tourism has installed more than 40 directional, tourism and
awareness signs at selected natural, historical and heritage sites across the
governorate.
The signs are intended to help visitors navigate
destinations, learn about local attractions and understand the importance of
preserving natural and cultural heritage.
The preparations reflect Oman’s wider efforts to strengthen
tourism infrastructure, diversify visitor experiences and promote its regional
destinations ahead of the winter season.