Omani Geological Heritage Exhibition in A’Rustaq Attracts 8,979 Visitors

A’Rustaq, 9 Jul (ONA) — The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has announced that the fourth edition of the Omani Geological Heritage Exhibition, titled “Sustainability and Employment Opportunities", held at Al Hazm Fort in the Wilayat of A’Rustaq, South Al Batinah Governorate, welcomed 8,979 visitors since its launch on 30 December 2024 until the end of June 2025.

Organized in collaboration with the South Al Batinah Governor’s Office, Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), and the Omani Geological Society, the exhibition aimed to diversify the museum sector and enhance heritage and tourism attractions across Oman’s governorates.

The exhibition showcased a collection of unique geological heritage pieces, including an 800-million-year-old fossil, 3D scientific models of the extinct primitive elephant (Stegodon), whose fossilized teeth were discovered in “Aydim" in Dhofar Governorate, and a model of a dinosaur whose fossilized remains were found in Al Khoudh, the Wilayat of A’Seeb. Additionally, the event featured a dedicated section highlighting South Al Batinah’s geological diversity, along with investment and employment opportunities in geological heritage projects—particularly for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), tour operators, and guides.

The exhibition featured six themed sections, covering topics such as: The story of Oman’s geological heritage and its diversity; The geological history and formation of Oman’s land; The importance of conserving geological heritage, and

Employment opportunities in geotourism.

—- Ends/AH