Oman to transform mountain into...

Jabal Al Abyadh is home to wadis, caves and rich archaeological sites

Oman is set to transform its second highest mountain into a sustainable tourism destination, appointing THR Strategic Tourism Advisors to lead the planning of the project.

The project, Unveiled by Oman’s Ministry of Heritage and Tourism in collaboration with local experts, aims to unlock the mountain’s potential for nature-based and cultural tourism, positioning it as a must-visit attraction that’s less than a two-hour drive from Muscat.

Jabal Al Abyadh – or the White Mountain – is located in the heart of Oman near the historic city of Nizwa and is part of the Al Hajar mountain range. At 3,000 metres high, it offers the same cool climate, dramatic landscapes and adventure tourism potential as the region’s more accessible peaks, Al Jabal Al Akhdhar and Jabal Shams (pictured).

The highest peak in the Arabian Peninsula, Jabal Shams is known for its trekking routes, including the Balcony Walk, and offers hiking, camping and paragliding; while Jebel Akhdar (aka the Green Mountain) is popular for its hiking trails, biking routes, rock climbing and Wakan Village, which is also being transformed.

Describing the White Mountain as a “breathtaking destination”, THR said Jabal Al Abyadh holds “remarkable potential for nature-based and cultural tourism” with its wadis, caves, rich archaeological sites and warm hospitality from communities that continue to live as goat-herders there.

The consultancy, which has undertaken over 1100 projects in around 70 countries, has identified opportunities for sustainable tourism development that honours both the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.

This initiative aligns with Oman’s broader tourism development strategy, which seeks to position itself as an active tourism destination for culture-hungry travellers, as it looks to attract 6 million foreign tourists annually by 2030, almost double current numbers.

To achieve this, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism will invest US$31 billion in tourism by 2040, with US$5.9 billion earmarked for projects including enhanced transport links between key tourist destinations.

The Ministry’s latest plans, presented to the Shura Council, include targeted investments in destinations such as Wakan Village, Al Sharqiyah Sands and Wadi Al Shab, with the goal of increasing tourism’s contribution to the national GDP and supporting sustainable economic growth.

For more information, visit mht.gov.om

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