Conference focuses on museums and their role in tourism development

MANAH, MAY 18

The three-day International Conference on “Museums and their Role in Tourism Development” kicked off on Sunday under the auspices of Salim bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, at the Oman Across Ages Museum in the Wilayat of Manah.

Organised by the museum in cooperation with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and the National Records and Archives Authority, the conference brings together over 42 researchers, academics and experts from 21 countries.

Coinciding with International Museum Day, the conference aims to underscore the essential role of museums in driving sustainable tourism, preserving cultural identity and fostering intercultural dialogue. It seeks to highlight how museums can function as dynamic educational and cultural platforms, contribute to economic diversification and embrace modern digital technologies to enrich the visitor experience.

Eng Al Yaqdhan bin Abdullah al Harthy, Director-General of the Oman Across Ages Museum and Chairman of the Organising Committee, stated that the conference reflects Oman’s growing stature as a regional hub for museum and cultural studies. “The museums today have become integral pillars of sustainable tourism by transforming history into interactive experiences that engage both the senses and the intellect. Museums offer visitors an opportunity for thoughtful participation, serving not only as cultural destinations but also as platforms that encourage dialogue between civilisations, support the creative economy and promote inclusive educational content,” he said.

The organising committee received nearly 300 research submissions, of which 42 were accepted and will be presented during eight intensive scientific sessions over the three-day conference. In addition to the academic programme, the conference features a poster exhibition and six specialised workshops delivered by experts from Oman and abroad. These workshops focus on various fields such as digital marketing for museums, heritage conservation techniques and community engagement for museum.

Dr Ech Cherki Dahmali, President of the Arab Organization for Museums and a leading member of the International Council of Museums (ICOM), provided insights on the importance of museum development and global collaboration during his keynote address. He emphasised the council’s role in enhancing museum development, supporting global collaboration and providing guidance during times of cultural crises. He also reflected on the deep cultural connections between Arab museums and international networks.

The conference programme covers four key theme areas: museum and cultural institutions, economy and museum tourism, the cultural and educational role of museums, and digital technologies in museum exhibitions.

These themes will be explored through a variety of research papers and expert presentations from countries including Jordan, Egypt, Syria, Algeria, Sudan, Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Russia, India, Iran, and others, alongside contributions from several Omani researchers and students.

The event also features contributions from leading Omani academics and public institutions. The workshops and discussions are intended to engage museum professionals, tourism sector stakeholders, educators and students in meaningful dialogue and enhance their practical skills.

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