Oman is accelerating its Vision 2040 goals by investing in cultural and heritage projects aimed at boosting tourism and diversifying the economy. Led by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, the initiatives focus on developing museums and visitor centres that blend modern design with the preservation of Oman’s historical and environmental legacy. These projects span coastal cities, archaeological sites, and remote landscapes to attract both domestic and international visitors.
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One of the flagship developments is the Natural History Museum in Muscat, located within the Oman Botanic Garden. Currently in the tendering phase, the museum will showcase Oman’s geological and biological history, complementing the Botanic Garden, which ranks among the largest environmental projects in the Middle East. Meanwhile, the Maritime History Museum in Sur continues to gain international attention, reflecting Oman’s historic maritime significance through innovative architectural design and interactive exhibits.
In Musandam, the Dibba Archaeological Visitor Centre is nearly complete, with 90% of construction finished. Set to open in 2026, it will provide visitors access to Bronze Age sites using advanced display technologies. The UNESCO-listed city of Qalhat is also slated for a major upgrade, with a new visitor centre inspired by seashells and wadi formations currently under tender evaluation. The project is supported through partnerships with the private sector, including Oman LNG.
In Al Dhahirah Governorate, plans are underway for a visitor centre at the Bat, Al Khutm, and Al Ayn archaeological sites, famous for prehistoric beehive tombs dating back to the third millennium BC. The project is expected to enter the tendering phase in early 2026.
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By expanding heritage infrastructure across urban and remote areas, Oman is preserving its cultural identity while fostering sustainable tourism. These efforts are central to Vision 2040, aiming to establish the Sultanate as a regional leader in heritage management and cultural promotion.