The Arab Tourism Organization has announced the selection of Sur in the Sultanate of Oman as the Arab Tourism Capital of Oman for 2024. The decision reflects the cultural, historical and geographical importance of this ancient state.
Sur is located on the northern side of Oman’s east coast, specifically in South Sharqiyah Governorate, about 337 km from the capital Muscat.
Sur boasts beautiful beaches and harbours, which have made it an important maritime centre since ancient times, as well as a diverse natural environment, including towering mountains and beautiful valleys that offer an exceptional tourism experience.
Sur is considered the cradle of many ancient civilizations and was once a centre of maritime trade and shipbuilding. Even today, the oldest traditional shipyard is located here, where it takes a full two years to build a single ship. Visitors can see models of traditional Omani ships. The city is home to numerous archaeological sites dating back to the 3rd millennium BC to the 1st millennium BC, reflecting Oman’s rich heritage. Sur is also home to famous historical monuments such as Al Rasfa Fort, Al Ayjah Fort and Ras Al Hadd Fort.
Sur has many tourist attractions to suit a variety of tourists, including the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Sanctuary, which was established as a turtle sanctuary in 1996 to protect the turtles that come to the coast to nest and lay their eggs. The sanctuary attracts many tourists interested in seeing the turtles and their nesting sites. The area is also characterized by mild temperatures in the summer months.
Sur has a wide range of accommodation options, from hotels and tourist resorts to guesthouses, offering a great experience to its visitors.
Sur has been selected as the Arab Tourism Capital for 2024, as its rich history and cultural heritage has the tourism potential to put it on the Arab tourism map. This selection will contribute to the establishment of more tourism projects and improvements that will draw visitors to this historic province.
