Al Jabal Al Sharqi in Al Hamra Emerges as Key Eco-Tourism Hub

Al hamra: Al Jabal Al Sharqi (The Eastern Mountain) is witnessing a qualitative transformation that positions it as a key contributor to domestic tourism and local community empowerment, thanks to ongoing efforts to develop tourism infrastructure and enhance the readiness of natural sites. According to Oman News Agency, Sheikh Hilal Said Al Hajri, Governor of A'Dakhiliyah, affirmed that the governorate has prioritized the development of the Al Jabal Al Sharqi, working to create an integrated tourism environment that meets visitors' expectations while adhering to sustainable environmental standards. He noted that the governorate, in cooperation with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, is improving service efficiency, regulating visitor traffic, and ensuring smooth entry and exit to guarantee a balanced and safe tourism experience. Sheikh Hilal highlighted the "Al Jabal Al Sharqi Oasis" project as one of the most prominent development initiatives in the governorate. The project's tender was floated last Apr il, and bids are currently under review. Spanning 10,000 square meters, the project includes a comprehensive range of tourism and service facilities, such as prayer halls for men and women, a 300-square-meter investment restaurant, an outdoor theater, 13 seating canopies, pedestrian walkways, open spaces, and service amenities designed to enhance the site's year-round appeal. He emphasized that this project embodies the practical implementation of "Oman Vision 2040" through high-quality initiatives that leverage the geographical and environmental uniqueness of each wilayat. The focus on sustainable tourism sites goes hand in hand with direct support for entrepreneurs and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs), which play a pivotal role in service delivery and generating economic opportunities for citizens. The Governor of A'Dakhiliyah stated that Al Jabal Al Sharqi is a year-round destination, particularly for camping and adventure enthusiasts, necessitating infrastructure capable of accommodating this demand. He affirmed that the governorate's development vision relies on engaging local communities in project implementation and fostering an enabling environment for youth initiatives, thereby promoting an entrepreneurial culture in the tourism sector. Sheikh Sulaiman Said Al Azri, Wali of Al Hamra, told ONA that the "Al Hamra Tourism 2025" event will kick off on 1 August in Al Jabal Al Sharqi, running until 30 August. The event, he pointed out, features a packed program of activities catering to all age groups, blending entertainment, adventure, and culture. He added that the event includes sunrise-viewing trips from mountain peaks, a dedicated camping zone with fully equipped tents, and service facilities such as restrooms and power stations. Exciting adventures will include mountain horse rides, designated hiking trails, and 4x4 vehicle tours to high-altitude peaks, alongside sports activities like trail running and cycling on curated routes for nature and fitness enthusiasts. On the entertainment front, he no ted designated areas for restaurants and cafés, along with family and children's activities. This year's standout additions include a glass viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of Al Hamra and a modern stargazing platform with advanced telescopes, enriching the tourism experience by linking it to science and space exploration. The Wali explained that organizing these tourism events aligns with a broader vision to establish the wilayat as a tourist destination while empowering youth to launch their own projects and fostering a stimulating environment for local economic initiatives. The event serves as a platform to support SMEs, reinforcing the integration of economic, social, and cultural development. It should be noted that Al Jabal Al Sharqi is one of Oman's prominent tourist destinations, rising 2,000 meters above sea level with a moderate climate that attracts visitors year-round. Its combination of adventure and leisure opportunities makes it an ideal location for ecotourism and outdoor sports. Amid th ese efforts, A'Dakhiliyah Governorate reaffirms its commitment to developing key tourism sites and linking them to sustainable investment and operational plans, ensuring their contribution to the national economy. These projects reflect Oman's development vision, which focuses on governorate-level growth, community empowerment, and optimal utilization of natural and heritage resources for long-term prosperity and balance.