Restoration Work of Rustaq Fort Extended Until 2027: What It Means for Investors and Business Growth in Oman
Muscat: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) is advancing with the extensive restoration of Rustaq Fort, one of Oman’s oldest and most significant forts. This project aims to preserve the fort’s unique architectural heritage while emphasizing its cultural importance.
Scheduled to continue until November 2027, the restoration seeks to enhance Rustaq Fort as both a cultural landmark and a tourist attraction. The initiative also supports local content development and encourages investment in heritage tourism. Rustaq Fort, whose origins date back to the pre-Islamic era, underwent major expansions during the rule of the Ya’aribi dynasty and Imam Ahmed bin Said al Busaidi. Recently, it was added to the Islamic Heritage List, reflecting its cultural and architectural distinction.
The Ministry is executing the restoration in multiple stages. Key activities include rebuilding cracked walls with traditional stones and materials, repairing damaged exterior cladding using “sarooj,” conserving wooden and metal windows, and restoring historic towers. Notably, the “Devils’ Tower” was reconstructed using traditional techniques after part of it collapsed, ensuring adherence to the original craftsmanship.
Engineering teams have documented significant architectural features during this phase, including layers of traditional rammed-earth construction. A portion of these remains has been deliberately left exposed for scientific examination and future reference.
On the western façade, restoration work is complete, involving surface cleaning, treatment of damaged areas, and application of new cladding. Additionally, historically significant architectural openings have been uncovered and are currently under detailed study.
Interior façades and courtyards have also been treated, with surfaces cleaned, cracks repaired, and initial cladding layers applied. Final cladding awaits completion of ongoing electrical installations.
The re-roofing and structural reinforcement of 24 rooms and internal spaces have been finalized, and roofing work is currently progressing on an additional 25 rooms. Restoration of most of the fort’s four façades is complete, with all discovered architectural remains carefully preserved and documented.
Restoration of the outer wall is actively underway in collaboration with relevant authorities, further reinforcing Rustaq Fort’s status as a vital historical and cultural emblem of the Sultanate.
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The comprehensive restoration of Rustaq Fort, extending through 2027, signals a robust commitment to heritage tourism as a growth sector in Oman. This project presents significant opportunities for investors and entrepreneurs to develop complementary services like hospitality, cultural experiences, and local artisan products, leveraging the fort’s enhanced appeal. However, businesses should be mindful of the long-term nature of cultural projects and strategically align investments with the gradual influx of heritage tourists and government-supported initiatives.
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