Sunday 17 / August / 2025
Jabal Akhdar: The Jabal Akhdar Festival 2025 has attracted more than 150,000 visitors from within Oman and abroad since its launch on 1 August till 15 August, with expectations that the total number will exceed 300,000 by the festival’s conclusion at the end of August.
The festival aligns with the objectives of "Oman Vision 2040," which aims to diversify the national economy, boost the tourism sector’s contribution, and support local content.
The event features an integrated program designed to revitalize A’Dakhiliyah Governorate, promote the natural and cultural assets of Jabal Akhdar, and empower the local community. This includes the participation of 65 small and medium enterprises (SMEs), 10 farmers, and the creation of 60 temporary job opportunities through diverse activities that enrich the tourism experience and stimulate economic activity.
Sheikh Hilal Said Al Hajri, Governor of Al Dakhiliyah, told Oman News Agency (ONA) that the governorate continues to implement a series of developmental and investment projects in Jabal Akhdar, with government and private investments exceeding OMR13 million. These efforts focus on infrastructure development, enhancing tourism attractions, and improving quality of life.
He added that these projects include Jabal Akhdar Park, costing over OMR1.1 million riyals, and completed internal road projects worth OMR1.37 million, with an additional package under implementation valued at OMR1.4 million riyals.
The governor noted that Jabal Akhdar has seen the signing of four investment contracts worth OMR8.5 million to establish and operate tourism and commercial facilities, including an integrated commercial complex, an open-air 3D plaza, parks, and mountain viewpoints.
He emphasized that Jabal Akhdar Festival 2025 reflects the governorate’s commitment to achieving balanced and sustainable tourism development by optimally leveraging the wilayat’s natural and cultural assets and reinforcing its status as a leading destination on Oman’s tourism map.
The festival also aligns with the economic and social goals of "Oman Vision 2040," demonstrating the governorate’s dedication to creating an attractive environment for both domestic and international tourism.
He stated that this year’s festival was organized with a comprehensive vision to ensure diverse activities that appeal to all age groups, thereby enhancing the tourism sector’s added value and stimulating economic activity in the Wilayat of Jabal Akdhar.
He noted that the rise in hotel occupancy and visitor numbers reflects the success of promotional efforts and the collaboration between government entities, the private sector, and the local community in organizing events befitting Jabal Akhdar’s stature.
The governorate has placed special emphasis on local content by enabling SMEs and local farmers to showcase their agricultural and handicraft products, while also providing temporary employment opportunities for residents in event management, guidance, and visitor services.
This approach underscores the governorate’s belief in empowering entrepreneurs and local families, creating sustainable marketing platforms that support the local economy and preserve Omani heritage and identity.
The festival’s program includes diverse cultural, entertainment, and sporting activities, such as folk performances, theatrical shows, food stalls, and play zones, alongside special events like the "Rummana" initiative, which highlights local pomegranate products through live demonstrations and marketing platforms.
