MUSCAT: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has finalized a contract with an investment company to oversee the development and management of Bahla Fort. The signing took place at the office of the Director General of Antiquities at the Ministry’s General Diwan in Muscat, attended by senior officials from the Ministry and representatives of the investing company. This agreement represents a key step in the government’s efforts to safeguard and showcase Oman’s cultural treasures while creating new avenues for tourism and community engagement.
Under the contract, a curated selection of archaeological artifacts discovered in the vicinity of Bahla Fort and its adjoining mosque will be loaned for display within specially prepared exhibition areas inside the fort and mosque. These items, carefully classified and preserved, include objects that shed light on the region’s rich history and cultural practices. The collaboration with the investing company ensures that the display will be designed to meet international museum standards, offering visitors a high-quality experience and encouraging deeper appreciation of Oman’s heritage.
The project forms part of a broader strategy to revitalize heritage sites across the Sultanate and make them more accessible to both domestic and international visitors. By enhancing the visitor experience, the initiative seeks to promote cultural tourism as a driver of economic growth, complementing other efforts to diversify Oman’s economy. Officials believe that creating dynamic, informative displays within Bahla Fort will add new depth to one of Oman’s most important historical landmarks and attract a larger audience.
In addition to improving visitor facilities, the agreement highlights the Ministry’s commitment to preserving historical artifacts and ensuring they are presented in a context that reflects their significance. All exhibits will follow stringent conservation practices to protect them from damage while maintaining their educational value. By combining preservation with innovation, the Ministry and its partners aim to transform Bahla Fort into a leading model of heritage management and interpretation within the region.
