The Sultanate of Oman is steadily advancing toward its Vision 2040 objectives by investing in a new generation of cultural and heritage projects designed to strengthen tourism and diversify the national economy. These initiatives, led by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, focus on developing modern museums and visitor centres that blend contemporary architectural design with the preservation of Oman’s rich historical, cultural, and environmental heritage. By expanding attractions across coastal cities and remote archaeological landscapes, Oman aims to position itself as a leading destination for heritage and eco-tourism in the region.
One of the key developments is the Natural History Museum in Muscat, which will be located within the Oman Botanic Garden. Currently in the tendering phase, the museum is planned as a comprehensive showcase of Oman’s geological formations, biodiversity, and natural ecosystems. The broader Botanic Garden project, now managed operationally by Muscat Municipality, is among the largest environmental and conservation-focused developments in the Middle East, reinforcing Oman’s commitment to sustainability and education.
In the coastal city of Sur, the Maritime History Museum continues to attract international interest. Designed by renowned architect Ibrahim Jaidah, the museum reflects Oman’s deep-rooted maritime heritage and historical role as a seafaring nation. Following a detailed value engineering process, the project has preserved its distinctive architectural vision while ensuring long-term sustainability and practical use as an educational and cultural institution.
In the Musandam Governorate, construction of the Dibba Archaeological Visitor Centre is nearing completion, with approximately 90 percent of the work finalized. Scheduled to open in 2026, the centre will offer visitors direct access to nearby Bronze Age archaeological sites. Through interactive exhibits and advanced display technologies, it will highlight Dibba’s historical significance and provide an immersive learning experience for both local and international visitors.
The Unesco-listed archaeological city of Qalhat is also set to benefit from major upgrades. The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism is overseeing the tender process for a new visitor centre, with bid evaluations expected in early 2026. Inspired by seashell forms and natural wadi landscapes, the centre is designed to serve as a central hub for visitors exploring one of Oman’s most important medieval port cities. The project is being supported through partnerships with the private sector, including Oman LNG, reflecting a collaborative approach to heritage development.
In Al Dhahirah Governorate, plans are progressing for a visitor centre at the Bat, Al Khutm, and Al Ayn archaeological sites, which are internationally recognized for their prehistoric beehive tombs dating back to the third millennium BC. This project is expected to enter the tendering phase in the first quarter of 2026 and will further enhance access to some of Oman’s most significant ancient heritage locations.
By expanding heritage infrastructure across both urban centres and remote regions, Oman is strengthening cultural preservation while creating new opportunities for sustainable tourism. These efforts underscore the country’s ambition under Vision 2040 to become a regional leader in heritage management, cultural tourism, and the promotion of its historical identity on the global stage.
