Muscat – Once a thriving village, Wadi Al Murr, located in Jalaan Bani Bu Ali in South Sharqiyah, has reemerged as a subject of fascination for visitors and photographers. Lying buried beneath desert sands for more than three decades, Omani photographer Haitham bin Nasser Darwish al Azri used a drone to capture rare aerial images of the village, offering a haunting glimpse into this forgotten settlement.

Azri’s drone photography captures more than just sand-covered ruins – it tells a story of loss, resilience, and the enduring connection of people to their homeland. With proper attention, Wadi Al Murr could shift from being a forgotten village to a beacon of cultural heritage and sustainable tourism.

Engulfed by shifting sands 34 years ago, Wadi Al Murr was abandoned when encroaching dunes rendered living conditions extremely difficult. The village, locally known as ‘the buried village’, saw its residents migrating to neighbouring towns and cities after sandstorms completely covered the entrances and exits of their homes.

Speaking to Muscat Daily, Azri reflected on the area’s unique allure, noting how the moving sands have begun to uncover portions of the buried structures. Features like the village mosque’s mihrab and parts of the traditional Omani-style dwellings, renowned for their sturdy construction, have started to emerge, revealing the craftsmanship of the past.

“Wadi Al Murr was home to approximately 50 families, with most residents relying on pastoral activities for their livelihoods. The village’s abandonment marks a poignant chapter in Oman’s history, where environmental forces reshaped human settlements,” he narrated.

Despite its desolation, former residents still visit the site, reliving memories of their ancestral homes and a way of life lost to the sands.

A vision for revitalisation

Azri emphasised the village’s potential as a unique tourist destination, suggesting the government to develop the area by adding infrastructure like paved roads, lighting, and restrooms to attract visitors. Located roughly halfway between the Niyabat of al Ashkhara in the south and the Niyabat of Ras al Hadd in the north, Wadi al Murr could serve as a valuable cultural and historical landmark.

Azri shared his experience of overcoming challenges while photographing the village, “Between 1pm and 6pm, I worked to capture the essence of the village through photography. The task was far from easy – I had to contend with strong winds and swirling sand. Despite these difficulties, determination and patience kept me going. Using a drone, I successfully took around 30 photos from different parts of the village. Operating a drone itself is a challenge; it demands rigorous training, hard work, and unwavering focus to achieve the desired results.

“The buried village offers a glimpse into Oman’s rich architectural heritage and resilience,” said Azri. “Developing it as a tourist attraction would not only preserve its history but also create a source of income and pride for the region. I hope the government   invest in the site’s potential.”