Rustaq – From restored heritage houses to farm-based green lodges, South Batinah is increasingly turning its traditional architecture and rural landscapes into places to stay, offering visitors experiences beyond conventional hotels.

The governorate had 354 licensed green lodges, heritage lodges, guesthouses, rest houses and camps by the end of the first half of 2026, according to the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism.

The total includes 275 guesthouses, 70 green lodges, five rest houses, two camps and two heritage lodges spread across Barka, Mussanah, Rustaq, Nakhl, Wadi Al Maawil and Al Awabi.

The ministry said demand for such accommodation is growing, creating opportunities for young Omanis and entrepreneurs while adding new experiences to the tourism sector.

Dr Al Mutasim bin Nasser Al Hilali, Director of the Heritage and Tourism Department in South Batinah, said efforts have focused on enabling local communities and SMEs to benefit from visitor traffic.

Heritage houses are being converted into traditional lodges where guests can experience older architectural styles, while farms are being used for green lodge projects. Guesthouses have emerged as one of the governorate’s most active areas of tourism investment.

The expansion has also created opportunities for tour guides, tourism programme organisers and businesses managing excursions and visitor groups.

Investment is extending to historic landmarks. Nakhl Castle, Burj Al Khamis Fort in Mussanah and Al Awabi Fort are already managed by local companies. Barka Fort, Al Mansour Fort and Misfat Al Shariqiyin Fort in Al Awabi have also been assigned to specialist firms preparing them for operation.

Al Hilali said the department is working with travel and tourism companies to develop organised tours linking historical and natural attractions. Such programmes require qualified guides, transport, accommodation arrangements and safety planning.

Community-led events are playing a growing role as well. “Youth and community initiatives are among the influential drivers in attracting tourism to various landmarks and tourist routes,” Al Hilali said.

Among them are community-organised walking activities, adventure events in Hadash village and a vineyard event in Al Aliya village in Al Awabi.

Productive families and craftspeople are also being included in tourism events, helping ensure that visitor spending reaches local communities while giving travellers closer contact with the traditions and everyday life of South Batinah.