Muscat – A new feature connecting Nakhal Fort to a nearby souq has breathed new life into the historic landmark, attracting 23,000 visitors in the last ten months – a 25% increase over the same period last year.

This surge is largely attributed to efforts by Nakhal Ahlia Investment Company, which has been managing and operating the fort since August 2022 under an agreement with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism.

Highlighting the impact of the new feature, Saif bin Sulaiman al Hadhrami, CEO of Nakhal Ahlia Investment Company, said, “The initiative to link the fort with Nakhal Souq has revitalised Omani heritage tourism and significantly boosted the fort’s appeal.” 

The project, involving an investment exceeding RO149,000, included upgrading tourist facilities and incorporating modern technologies to create a unique visitor experience.

Exhibitions and markets in collaboration with public and private entities have played a crucial role in drawing more tourists.

Visitors can now enjoy an enriched experience, exploring the fort’s unique architecture and the surrounding date palm plantations.

In addition to features such as an astronomical telescope, a herbs exhibition, a pottery workshop, and virtual reality games, the fort has  artefacts showcasing Omani history, including ancient weapons, manuscripts and traditional handicrafts. A dedicated section for palm-frond weaving and a heritage market further reflects the region’s cultural richness.

The fort’s charm lies not only in its historic significance – dating back to the pre-Islamic era – but also in its distinctive architecture, which incorporates irregularly shaped rocks into its structure, including its western towers. This style of architecture has proven to be a major draw for foreign tourists, who make up the majority of visitors.

To further bolster its appeal, Nakhal Fort hosts regular art, cultural and sports events in partnership with various organisations. These activities underscore the fort’s role as a symbol of Oman’s rich heritage and architectural legacy while positioning it as a beacon for heritage tourism in the region.