Rustaq – In a scene that encapsulates history and the spirit of the present, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism continues the comprehensive restoration work of Rustaq Fort, one of the oldest and most important forts in the Sultanate of Oman.

This is part of an ongoing program aimed at preserving this unique architectural heritage and highlighting its cultural value. The project, which extends until November 2027, aims to enhance the fort as a cultural and tourist attraction, contributing to supporting local content and attracting investments in the field of heritage tourism.

Rustaq Fort bears within its walls a deep history, as its construction dates back to the pre-Islamic era and witnessed notable expansions during the reign of the Al Busaid dynasty and Imam Ahmed bin Said al Busaidi. It was recently included on the Islamic Heritage List in recognition of its cultural importance and distinguished architectural standing.

The project, implemented by the Ministry, extends until the end of 2027. Restoration work has begun according to a multi-stage plan, most notably the reconstruction of cracked walls using stones and traditional materials, the treatment of damaged exterior cladding with “saruh,” the maintenance of wooden and metal windows, and the restoration of historic towers, most notably the “Devils’ Tower,” which was reconstructed after part of it collapsed using traditional techniques identical to the original. During this phase, engineering teams documented important architectural evidence, including traditional buried layers, and left part of it exposed as a scientific and study reference.

In the Western Oasis, work has been completed, from cleaning surfaces and treating damaged layers to implementing new cladding, with the discovery of architectural openings with historical significance. On the interior facades and courtyards of the castle, work has been completed to clean surfaces, treat cracks, and implement the initial layers of cladding. The final layers have been postponed until the electrical work is completed. The re-roofing of 24 rooms and an internal court has also been completed, and roofing work is underway on 25 other rooms.

Most of the four facades have been completed, while preserving and documenting the discovered architectural evidence. The outer wall is currently being restored in cooperation with the relevant authorities, in a step that enhances the fort’s status as a prominent historical and cultural symbol and a preferred destination for heritage tourism enthusiasts inside and outside the Sultanate of Oman.