Muscat: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has announced the launch of Archaeological Expeditions Season 2025-2026. The programme forms part of the Ministry's efforts to protect the Omani heritage, document Oman's centuries-old historical evidence, and enhance the country's position as a leading regional research centre in the field of archaeological studies.

According to Oman News Agency, this year's season includes the implementation of surveys and exploration projects, lab-based analytical studies, 3-D documentation, and field training programmes aimed at raising the efficiency of national cadres. As part of the programme, an Italian mission from Sapienza University has embarked on exploring archaeological sites in the Wilayats of Nakhl and Wadi Al Ma'awil.

The Italian mission excavated sites dating back to the third and first millennia BC. It also conducted archaeological surveys that have so far documented 77 relics. The findings affirm the historical importance of the newly discovered sites, proving that human activity prevailed in the region during the Bronze Age and the Iron Age.

An exhibition featuring the discovered artefacts is scheduled to be held at the conclusion of the Italian mission's activities during this season, with the prime aim of raising public awareness about the importance of Omani heritage and history.