Nizwa – More than 220 historic neighbourhoods (harats) across Dakhliyah are being assessed for rehabilitation as Oman seeks to transform its traditional settlements into sustainable tourism and investment destinations.

The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, in cooperation with relevant authorities, is studying a number of harats and other historically significant sites, with priority given to those considered ready for development and likely to generate economic and social benefits.

Ahlam bint Hamad Al Qasabi, Director of the Heritage and Tourism Department in Dakhliyah, said rehabilitation could create investment opportunities by adapting traditional buildings for new uses.

These include heritage guesthouses, traditional cafés and restaurants, handicraft exhibitions, private museums and cultural centres. The neighbourhoods could also host festivals, events and heritage markets, helping attract visitors throughout the year.

Several harats have already undergone rehabilitation, including Al Aqr and Al Saybani in Nizwa; Al Ain and Al Sawad in Izki; Harat Bani Shaiban, Harat Al Hawashim and Al Jami’ in Adam; Al Aqr and Al Sujrah in Jabal Akhdar; Misfat Al Abriyeen and the Old Neighbourhood in Al Hamra; and Harat Al Bilad in Manah.

Current projects include restoration of historic mosques, traditional vaulted gateways (sabahat) and main entrances, alongside improvements to walkways and alleyways while retaining their architectural character.

Among the projects is restoration of Al Waljah Mosque and the gateway of Al Saybani neighbourhood in Birkat Al Mawz, as well as development of its entrance and forecourt. Restoration of gateways and watchtowers at Al Ain and Al Sawad in Izki has also been completed.

In Jabal Akhdar, work is progressing on a stone-paved trail linking the villages of Al Aqr, Al Ain and Al Sharijah, with seating areas being added to improve the visitor experience.

The ministry is also supporting owners of heritage homes with restoration materials and technical supervision to encourage their conversion into guesthouses.

In Adam, community initiatives to restore Harat Al Hawashim and Harat Bani Shaiban have received materials including sarooj, kandal wood and stone.

Ahlam said the projects were generating jobs during restoration and creating subsequent opportunities for SMEs, artisans and productive families.

She added that partnerships with the private sector could provide funding, operational expertise and marketing support needed to turn heritage properties into commercially sustainable destinations.