Muscat – Oman has taken a major step towards securing Unesco World Heritage recognition for the ancient Salut archaeological site in Bahla, with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism launching an international tender to prepare its nomination dossier and long-term management plan.

The initiative will pave the way for the site to be submitted to the Unesco for consideration for inclusion on the World Heritage List under the proposed title ‘Salut: An Iron Age Settlement.’

Ibtisam bint Abdullah Al Maamari, Director of the World Heritage Department at the ministry, said the move is part of national efforts to meet international nomination requirements, enhance the presence of Omani heritage sites on the global map and ensure the site’s long-term sustainability.

First documented in 1973, the site is located between Wadi Saifam and Wadi Bahla in Dakhliyah.

It contains archaeological evidence spanning the Bronze Age, Iron Age and Islamicperiods, highlighting the area’s long history of human settlement and cultural development.

According to the ministry, the site reflects the development of human settlements and cultural exchange over successive periods and is part of a landscape combining significant natural and archaeological features.

Ibtisam said archaeological studies and excavations indicate that the site possesses Outstanding Universal Value, supporting its potential nomination to the World Heritage List.

The international tender seeks specialised consultancy services to prepare the Unesco nomination dossier and a long-term management plan. It is open to qualified local and international companies, institutions and consultancy firms with relevant expertise.

Bid submissions close on October 13, 2026.

The nomination dossier will document the site’s heritage significance and demonstrate how it meets Unesco’s requirements for World Heritage inscription, while the management plan will provide a framework for its long-term conservation and sustainable use.

The ministry had earlier invited bids to manage and operate the Bisya and Salut archaeological site and its visitor centre. The initiative aims to improve visitor services, enhance the cultural and tourism experience and expand private sector participation in operating and managing related facilities.

Ibtisam said the initiatives reflect an integrated approach linking heritage preservation with sustainable development.

While the Unesco nomination focuses on establishing Salut’s global heritage value, the management and operations initiative seeks to strengthen tourism readiness and operational efficiency.

The nomination process could add Salut to Oman’s growing portfolio of internationally recognised heritage sites, further highlighting the sultanate’s archaeological legacy and its role in the ancient history of the region.