Dibba – In a move aimed at improving tourism services and encouraging private sector participation, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) has announced a tender for the operations of two tourism-related facilities at the Dibba Archaeological Centre.

According to the announcement, the ministry is offering investment opportunities for leasing and operating a café and a retail outlet specialising in souvenirs and handicrafts at the centre. The initiative forms part of the ministry’s broader strategy to enhance visitor experiences at heritage and archaeological sites while supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the tourism sector.

The tender documents can be obtained until April 15, while the date for submitting bids is May 3.

Officials indicated that companies as well as SMEs registered with the relevant authorities are eligible to participate. The initiative also encourages entrepreneurs holding a Riyada card to take advantage of the opportunity, reflecting the government’s commitment to empowering Omani businesses and promoting local entrepreneurship within the tourism value chain.

The centre aims to offer visitors an immersive educational experience, featuring interactive displays and innovative presentations of excavated artefacts. The Dibba site, which chronicles human settlement from the Later Stone Age to the Islamic era, has revealed a wealth of artefacts that showcase Oman’s rich archaeological legacy. The centre is the first in Oman and the GCC to be constructed directly on archaeological remains, adding an unparalleled dimension to its historical and tourism appeal.

By opening tourism facilities to private sector management, MHT hopes to improve service quality, stimulate economic activity in surrounding areas, and reinforce the role of heritage sites as vibrant destinations for both domestic and international visitors.