Muscat – The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) has initiated a plan to develop Samail Castle in Dakhliyah governorate to attract tourists and stimulate the sector.

The castle will be given to the private sector for development and management.

Spread over 10,000sqm, Samail Castle was built in the 17th century on a rocky hill.

The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT), as part of its plan to privatise management of forts and castles in the sultanate, is looking to partner with the private sector to develop Samail Castle.

“To support the national economy and benefit from the country’s historical structures, the ministry has floated a tender for management and development of Samail Castle,” a ministry official.

MHT confirmed that interested companies must submit a proposal that includes marketing of the castle commercially and culturally, hosting artistic and cultural events, and introducing activities to revive the castle. Bids must highlight the architectural uniqueness of the castle and involve the local community in various cultural and social events.

The deadline for bid submission is December 29, 2022.