Oman Ministry of Tourism and Omran launch unique women's cultural program to drive tourist inflow to Khasab

'Zaree', the women-to-women cultural program, is a CSR initiative that will provide an insight into Oman's culture and heritage from a woman's perspective

(prHWY.com) November 6, 2012 - Dubai, United Arab Emirates -- 6 November 2012
The Sultanate of Oman's Ministry of Tourism and Omran, Oman's leading tourism-related developer, hospitality manager and investment company, have today announced plans to further promote Khasab as an ideal destination for short breaks and highlight its status as a destination that offers authentic and cultural experiences. A key element of the plans is the launch of a unique women-to-women cultural program entitled Zaree - a CSR initiative developed by Omran.

The Zaree program will operate from a dedicated room inside the historic Khasab Castle, a picturesque stronghold situated on the inner cove of Khasab Bay in Wilayat Khasab, Musandam Governorate. Following the castle's restoration with new interactive displays for learning about the region's cultural heritage and environment, the castle was recently awarded 'Best International Museum Award' by the UK Museums' Association.

Her Excellency Maitha Al Mahrouqi, Undersecretary of the Oman Ministry of Tourism said, "We are confident that this new cultural program, Zaree, will become an iconic activity - especially among expatriate women's groups coming from the UAE and cruise passengers. Zaree is a unique and immersive insight to Oman's heritage, lifestyle and modernity from a woman's perspective."

Eng. Wael bin Ahmed Al Lawati, CEO of Omran said, "As an Omani company, we constantly endeavour to find creative ways to showcase our rich cultural heritage. We do so directly through our core business of creating memorable tourism destinations and indirectly by supporting income generating programs that deliver long-term benefits to the local communities and the national economy. We are proud to be supporting Zaree as we believe in the program's ability to connect cultures by highlighting Khasab's rich culture, hospitality and lifestyle."

The Ministry also announced plans to host regional travel trade and media representatives on a 'Destination Khasab' familiarisation trip which will run from 8 - 9 November.

Khasab is experiencing a surge in tourism investment with the next landmark development being the 110-room, 3-star Khasab Hotel being developed by Omran. Khasab benefits from Oman Air's daily air services to Muscat and thrice weekly express ferry services from Muscat and Shinas.

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