Wednesday 25 / February / 2026
Muscat: The Heritage and Tourism Department in the South Al Batinah Governorate has officially taken a major step toward transforming the Wilayat of Rustaq into a premier cultural destination. An engineering consultancy contract valued at over OMR 184,985 has been awarded to a specialized firm to design an integrated heritage route. This ambitious project focuses on physically and visually linking several of the region's most iconic sites, including the Mausoleum of Imam Ahmed bin Said, the founder of the Al Busaidi dynasty, and the historic Rustaq Castle.
The primary goal of the initiative is to highlight Rustaq’s historical stature while promoting sustainable tourism. By connecting the castle with the traditional market, the Qasra Quarter, and the Bait Al Qarn Quarter, the project aims to create a "living model" of a historical city. This infrastructure will not only preserve the authentic architectural character of these ancient neighborhoods but also modernize the visitor experience, encouraging tourists to stay longer and engage more deeply with the local culture.
Beyond preservation, the development plan is a strategic investment in the local economy. Dr. Al Mu'tasim bin Nasser Al Hilali, Director of the Heritage and Tourism Department in the governorate, emphasized that the project will revitalize historic alleyways like Qasra and Bait Al Qarn. By standardizing building facades and improving urban infrastructure, the project seeks to eliminate "visual distortions" and create a seamless aesthetic that honors the past while supporting modern use.
The revitalisation is expected to trigger several community benefits:
SME Support: The traditional market will see renewed commercial activity, providing a platform for local artisans and small businesses.
Job Creation: New opportunities in tour guiding, hospitality, and service industries will be created for local residents.
Infrastructure Upgrades: The plan includes heritage-style pedestrian paths, improved lighting, and better drainage and security measures.
Local Investment: Residents will be encouraged to establish private investments, such as boutique heritage stays or cafes, that align with the area's historical identity.
Future Heritage Projects
This consultancy contract is part of a broader, phased development strategy for South Al Batinah. Officials have already indicated that more projects will be announced soon, specifically targeting the restoration of heritage houses within the Bait Al Qarn neighborhood. These upcoming initiatives will work in tandem with the current linking project to ensure that the entire historical district of Rustaq operates as a unified, high-quality tourism destination.
