Muscat – More than 180 historians, archaeologists and specialists will gather in Dhofar next week for a major Gulf forum examining the region’s shared history, archaeological discoveries and cultural heritage.

Represented by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, Oman will host the 25th Scientific Forum of the History and Archaeology Society of the GCC Countries from August 24 to 26.

The three-day gathering marks the silver jubilee of the society’s forums and will feature 30 research papers covering the history, archaeology, heritage and culture of Gulf states across different periods.

Researchers will present findings from archaeological surveys and field studies, alongside analyses of historical events and studies examining the cultural, intellectual, economic and social development of the region.

Organisers said holding the milestone edition in Dhofar carries particular significance because of the governorate’s long history as a crossroads connecting communities and trading networks across the Arabian Peninsula and beyond.

Dhofar is home to several important archaeological and heritage sites associated with the ancient frankincense trade, maritime links and settlements that reflect centuries of interaction between southern Arabia and other regions.

An exhibition alongside the forum will display archaeological finds discovered in Oman and showcase scientific publications on Omani heritage. It will also feature publications by the History and Archaeology Society and the Omani Historical Society, a timeline of Oman’s history, paintings and a tourism information section.

The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism said the gathering aims to strengthen research into Gulf history and archaeology while highlighting the historical links and common cultural heritage of GCC societies.

The forum also seeks to encourage cooperation among researchers and institutions working to document and preserve archaeological and historical resources across the region.

On the final day, participants will visit archaeological, historical and tourism sites across Dhofar.

The field programme coincides with the khareef season, giving researchers an opportunity to explore the governorate’s archaeological landscape alongside its natural and cultural attractions.