Duqm – Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) has inaugurated the Meteorite Corner at Crowne Plaza Duqm in Al Wusta, highlighting Oman’s growing efforts to promote geological heritage and enrich the tourism experience.

It features rare meteorite samples from the Jeddat al Harasis strewn field in Al Wusta, which hosts the largest documented meteorite fall in the sultanate. The Meteorite Corner offers visitors an opportunity to view cosmic fragments and learn about their scientific and historical significance, as well as Oman’s role in preserving these as part of its national heritage.

Among the highlights is a fragment from Jeddat al Harasis 91, the largest meteorite ever discovered in Oman. The meteorite’s fall path extended about 52km, with over 700 fragments collected, weighing around 4.6 tonnes. Scientific studies indicate that the meteorite dates back more than 12,600 years.

Another display features a sample from Jeddat al Harasis 73, classified as an L6-type stony chondrite. Considered the second-largest meteorite fall discovered in Oman, it originally weighed more than 20 tonnes and is believed to have fallen about 15,600 years ago during the Palaeolithic period. A total of 3,638 fragments from this fall, weighing 620.9kg, have been documented along a 25.8km path.

The display aims to raise awareness of meteorites’ scientific, cultural and educational value while promoting the legal frameworks that protect these under Oman’s Cultural Heritage Law. It also reflects the country’s efforts to collect, preserve and study meteorites, which continue to attract international scientific interest.

According to MHT, the Meteorite Corner represents a collaborative effort between the public and private sectors, aligning with Oman’s vision to integrate science and culture within the broader tourism experience. By showcasing meteorites in a hospitality setting, the initiative offers residents and visitors a closer connection to Oman’s unique natural history.