University of Nizwa to Launch 20th Cultural Season with International Conference on Heritage and Tourism

The University of Nizwa is set to launch its 20th Cultural Season with an esteemed international conference titled "Heritage, Tourism, and Culture: Renewed Visions for Civilizational Development." This prestigious event, scheduled from February 3 to 5, 2025, is organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and the International Federation of Historians.

In anticipation of the conference, the University hosted a press event to unveil key details. Dr. Mohammed Al-Habsi, a member of the Scientific and Supervisory Committee, represented the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, while Dr. Suleiman Al-Husseini, Director of the Al-Khalil Bin Ahmed Al-Farahidi Center, spoke on behalf of the University. Alongside them, Dr. Sulaim Al-Hanai, Head of the Scientific and Supervisory Committee, provided further insights into the event and answered questions from the media.

Dr. Al-Husseini announced that His Excellency Salem bin Mohammed Al-Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, will officially inaugurate the conference and the cultural season at the University’s main campus. The ceremony will be attended by a distinguished audience of government officials, experts, and academics, both local and international. Dr. Al-Husseini highlighted that the conference will bring together around 200 participants, including 80 speakers, who will present cutting-edge research on a range of topics such as cultural heritage, tourism development, and the role of technology in these areas. Over 40 papers will be presented by international participants, emphasizing the global relevance of these discussions.

Key topics to be explored include:

• The sustainability of tangible and intangible heritage.

• The economic impact of cultural industries.

• The role of cultural institutions in promoting diversity.

• Using heritage and tourism as tools for preserving identity.

Dr. Al-Husseini stressed the significance of the conference: “This initiative aims to explore innovative strategies to enhance heritage and tourism, focusing on development and investment opportunities through academic and research-driven perspectives.”

In addition to the main conference, Dr. Al-Habsi mentioned that the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism will organize workshops on heritage, tourism, and museum management. The event will also feature an exhibition celebrating Oman’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing contributions from the University, local institutions, and artisans.

To offer international participants a deeper appreciation of Oman’s heritage, Dr. Al-Husseini outlined two cultural tours: one exploring Nizwa’s historical landmarks and another visiting Barakat Al-Mouz, known for its unique heritage sites.

Significance for Oman.

This conference highlights the University of Nizwa’s commitment to strengthening local and global partnerships in research, tourism, and heritage preservation. Dr. Mohammed Al-Habsi emphasized: “Heritage and tourism are crucial drivers of cultural, social, and economic development. This collaboration demonstrates the power of academic and governmental institutions working together to achieve Oman’s strategic goals.”

The conference is expected to produce valuable recommendations aimed at enhancing Oman’s tourism sector while preserving its cultural legacy for future generations.