Jabal Al Akhdar Governorate in Oman has been selected as the capital of Gulf tourism for 2027, based on the growth of tourism and the diversity of the region's natural, agricultural, cultural, and historical assets.
Infrastructure and Service Development
This selection is seen as an opportunity to strengthen the region's position on the Gulf tourism map, and Sheikh Mahmoud bin Rashid Al Saidi, the governor of Nizwa, emphasized the importance of this selection for expanding the tourism and economic sector. He stated that developing a diverse tourism sector that contributes to economic growth will be one of the main priorities of this plan.
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According to statistics from the National Center for Statistics and Information, Jabal Al Akhdar attracted about 101,608 visitors in the first half of 2026, and hotel revenues reached approximately 7.8 million Omani rials by the end of July of the same year. This indicates the high tourism potential in this area.
Economic Opportunities for Local Businesses
Additionally, Issa bin Saleh Al Subhi, the Director General of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Organization (Riyada) in the Al Dakhiliyah Governorate, reported the existence of 246 small and medium enterprises and 11 artists in the region. This local capacity can capitalize on tourism growth in various fields such as accommodation, hospitality, restaurants, and tourism experiences.
Agricultural activities are also a key component of the economic and tourism identity of Jabal Al Akhdar. The region has a variety of products including pomegranates, olives, saffron, and flowers that can help attract tourists. Currently, 14 agricultural investment projects are underway, covering a total of about 166 hectares.
Jabal Al Akhdar Governorate is also implementing developmental and service projects worth over 5.7 million Omani rials. These projects include improvements to the road network and public services, which will aid in the development of tourism and investment in the region.
Ahmed bin Hamad Al Nabani, a member of the Municipal Council, stated that this selection provides more opportunities for small and medium businesses and farmers. With the development of services and products, investment and partnership opportunities will increase.
Read more: Opening of the Exhibition
