Oman’s Wilayat of Al Jabal Al Akhdar in A’Dakhiliyah Governorate has been selected as the GCC Tourism Capital for 2027, highlighting the mountain destination’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and growing tourism potential.
The announcement was made during the 10th meeting of GCC
Ministers Responsible for Tourism in Bahrain, following the Sultanate’s
submission of an integrated nomination dossier outlining Al Jabal Al Akhdar’s
natural, environmental, cultural and heritage assets, as well as investment
opportunities.
Minister of Heritage and Tourism Sayyid Ibrahim Said Al
Busaidi said the selection reflects sustained efforts to develop Al Jabal Al
Akhdar as an integrated tourism destination and strengthen its competitiveness
in regional and international markets.
He highlighted the wilayat’s distinctive combination of
mountainous landscapes, moderate climate, agricultural terraces and heritage
villages, alongside seasonal products including roses, pomegranates, walnuts
and honey. The area has also recorded increased tourist activity amid expanding
investments, accommodation options, facilities and tourism experiences.
Al Busaidi attributed the destination’s growth to
cooperation between government bodies and the private sector. Authorities have
focused on infrastructure, services and the investment environment, while
private-sector projects have expanded facilities and tourism offerings.
Azzan Qasim Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of
Heritage and Tourism for Tourism, described the designation as the beginning of
a new implementation phase. The ministry, in cooperation with its partners,
plans to develop an integrated tourism programme throughout 2027 featuring
major events, seasonal experiences and promotional campaigns targeting Gulf and
regional markets.
The programme will also seek to develop new tourism
products, attract investment and support small and medium-sized enterprises,
with the aim of increasing visitor stays and spending while creating
sustainable economic opportunities for local communities.
Sheikh Sultan Mansoor Al Ghafeeli, Wali of Al Jabal Al
Akhdar, said local residents would play a central role in the initiative
through agriculture, handicrafts, cultural heritage, local products and
hospitality.
Preparations will focus on improving sites, services and facilities, supporting community projects and enriching the events calendar. Officials expect 2027 initiatives to attract more visitors and investment while turning the designation into sustainable projects that strengthen Al Jabal Al Akhdar’s position on the Gulf and regional tourism map. -TradeArabia News Service
