Salalah – A new chapter in Oman’s cultural preservation began on Monday with the inauguration of Dhofar Museum in Salalah under the patronage of H H Sayyid Marwan bin Turki al Said, Governor of Dhofar.

The museum aims to boost cultural tourism and provide a permanent platform for documentation and display of Dhofar’s heritage.

Hamza bin Mohammed al Ghassani, a member of the museum’s Board of Directors, said the project goes beyond traditional exhibitions. “The museum seeks to educate future generations, support academic research and contribute to cultural tourism in Oman, Dhofar in particular.”

According to Ghassani, the museum was developed as an integrated cultural project focused on documenting various aspects of Dhofar’s heritage. It is designed to resemble structures of the ancient past while incorporating modern technology to enhance visitor engagement. Information on exhibits is provided in Arabic, English, French and German, allowing access to a wide audience.

The museum also features space for Omani artisans to present traditional crafts, fostering cultural continuity and professional engagement.

The exhibits are organised into thematic environments reflecting different phases of Dhofar’s history, including Islamic civilisation and the governorate’s historical role in trade and maritime activity. It also presents material on ancient cities such as Samharam, Al Baleed and Ubar, showcasing their contributions to regional civilisation.

Four distinct environments – coastal, rural, desert and urban – provide insights into traditional life in Dhofar. Exhibits cover a range of subjects from architectural heritage and Dhofari cuisine to folk dances, fishing traditions, traditional weapons and agricultural practices. Archival material, such as documents, manuscripts and photographs, further enrich the collection.

By combining history with technology and community engagement, Dhofar Museum positions itself as both a cultural archive and a driver of heritage tourism in southern Oman, Ghassani added.