Manah – Oman Across Ages Museum will host an international conference titled ‘Museums and their Role in Tourism Development’ in collaboration with National Records and Archives Authority and Ministry of Heritage and Tourism from May 18 to 20.

The three-day event will bring together over 40 researchers, academics and museum experts from 21 countries, along with key stakeholders in the heritage and tourism sectors from within and outside the sultanate.

The conference will feature 42 scientific papers covering a range of topics, including the role of museums and heritage institutions in boosting tourism and preserving cultural identity, the contribution of museum tourism to the cultural economy and investment opportunities in the sector.

Presentations will explore the educational and academic potential of museums, with a focus on partnerships and integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality to enhance visitor experiences.

In addition to the main sessions, the conference will include three specialised workshops and an exhibition showcasing the participation of government and private entities, alongside researchers and academics. The exhibition aims to highlight the economic and cultural significance of museums and their growing role in society and tourism development.

Al Yaqzan bin Abdullah al Harthy, Director General of Oman Across Ages Museum and General Supervisor of the conference, said the event aims to serve as a global platform for the exchange of expertise and best practices in the field of museums. He emphasised the growing importance of Omani museums as knowledge hubs that contribute to diversifying the national economy through cultural tourism.

Dr Mohammed al Balushi, Chairman of the conference’s Scientific Committee, said it received more than 300 research abstracts from 21 countries, of which 42 were selected based on academic quality and diversity.

He added that a number of scientific posters will also be displayed at the conference, offering further opportunities for knowledge exchange and showcasing innovative research in museum development and tourism.