Muscat – After successfully hosting the first Al Jabal Al Akhdar Tourism Festival, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) has decided to make it an annual feature to promote tourism in and around Jabal Akhdar.

H E Salim bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, confirmed that it will be turned into an annual event.

The first-of-its-kind five-day fest in the wilayat of Jabal Akhdar in Dakhliyah concluded on Saturday.

H E Ibrahim bin Saeed Al Kharousi, Undersecretary for Heritage in MHT, officially inaugurated the activities of the festival on Friday, including a parade of horses, and an exhibition of agricultural products, aromatic plant oils and handicrafts.

Commenting on the festival, H E Mahrouqi tweeted, “The festival will be an annual event aimed at creating a quality destination for all.”

The decision evoked positive reactions from citizens and experts. Dr Khalid al Balushi said, “Well said Your Excellency. Hope such events are held all over the country.”

Haitham al Farsi said such festivals are very important as these are outlets for families to enjoy the outdoors. “We hope to see such events in various governorates. This tourism festival will also help young people innovate and be creative.”

Speaking to Muscat Daily, Saif Ali al Rawahi, head of Oman From Horseback, one of the organisers of the festival, said, “We, as organisers of the festival, always wanted to hold the festival annually. The ministry’s approval has pleased us immensely.”

The decision will activate domestic tourism, attract tourists from neighbouring countries, create job opportunities, and promote the products of productive families.

“More than 2,000 visitors visited the festival daily. The festival included many events held for the first time, including water games and a pomegranate festival,” said Rawahi.

He informed that 20 riders participated in the horseback trail ride of two-day duration covering about 50km.

Economy analyst Nasser al Hosni said there are many tourist sites, including castles and forts, in Oman that can be used to hold cultural and tourism events.