Bahla – Bahla Fort is witnessing renewed cultural and tourism activity following a series of development projects that have transformed the Unesco World Heritage Site into a museum complex with expanded visitor facilities.

The historic fortress now houses specialised museums and interactive displays under the banner of ‘Bahla Fort Museums’. The additions include galleries dedicated to artefacts, traditional Omani doors, meteorites and Omani honey, alongside digital installations designed to enhance the visitor experience.

Ali Ahmed Al Shaqsi, Director of Management and Operations at the Maraseem Tourism Company, which manages the fort, said the opening of the museums marks the completion of a comprehensive development phase.

“The project is focused on presenting heritage in a way that connects the past with the present while preserving the architectural identity of the fort,” he told Muscat Daily.

The works included upgrades to infrastructure and technical systems while maintaining the historic fabric of the site. Energy-efficient lighting and air-conditioning systems were installed, along with modern security technologies and interactive museum displays. Restoration and maintenance were carried out in line with approved safety standards for heritage sites.

Al Shaqsi said the project also supports the local economy by creating employment opportunities and enabling artisans and small and medium enterprises in Bahla to participate in tourism-related activities.

Since 2023, the fort has hosted more than 50 cultural, tourism and entertainment events. Visitor numbers have risen from around 17,000 in 2023 to more than 123,000 in 2025.

He attributed the increase to improved museum content, enhanced services and promotional campaigns, as well as the fort’s inclusion in official tourism programmes. A broad calendar of events has also attracted a wider range of visitors.

The growth in footfall has contributed to increased commercial activity in surrounding areas, particularly at Bahla Heritage Market and nearby tourism facilities.

Al Shaqsi said the development followed standards applied to Unesco World Heritage Sites, ensuring that modern technologies such as interactive screens and display systems were introduced without affecting the architectural character of the fort.

He added that the museums provide an educational experience reflecting the diversity of Omani heritage, traditional life and the local environment.

Future plans include expanding exhibitions and educational programmes, introducing additional interactive technologies and organising heritage exhibitions, craft demonstrations, seasonal festivals and workshops throughout the year.

Ticket prices are set at RO1.5 for Omani and GCC citizens, RO2.5 for expatriates in Oman and RO4 for foreign tourists. All children under six enter free, while Omani children aged six to 12 are charged 500bz, expat children RO1 and others RO2.

The project is being seen as a model for how heritage landmarks can be revitalised to support cultural tourism while safeguarding their historical value.