Muscat: Tourists in large numbers are currently flocking to Al Ashkara. Its hotels, resorts and guest houses have recorded high occupancy rates throughout the year, as the entire area of Ashkara has a clean atmosphere and diverse natural environments, including sand dunes and beautiful beaches.
There is a huge investment potential in the area for those who wish to contribute to Oman’s hotel industry. Situated in Wilayat Jalan Bani Bu Ali of the South Al Sharqiyah Governorate, Al Ashkara is considered an area where tourists come throughout the year
This is due to the breezes which cool their bodies and pleasant summers and winters. It is of the most famous tourist sites in the summer as it is influenced by the Khareef season of the Dhofar governorate.
Saud bin Hamad Al-Alawi, Director of Tourism in the South Al-Sharqiyah governorate, said, “This governorate, where Ashkara is situated, has elements of an environmental, geographical and historic nature that show the history of our deep rooted Omani civilisation. It is one of the most preferred destinations for tourists who want to try something different. They are attracted towards its wide beaches and gentle breeze.
“The Ministry of Tourism is trying to serve those areas that develop and promote tourism within the Sultanate of Oman, and contribute to the gross domestic product of the country. Ashkara is one of the areas which does not need much publicity, as it is already well known among Omanis and the people of the entire Gulf region for its moderate environment throughout the year. It has its own qualities which make it popular among tourists who come here repeatedly,” he added.
Tourists can participate and indulge in various types of activities, as the distinct nature of Ashkara is best for camping, riding sand buggies, camel and horse riding, fishing tours, going on boat rides, and relaxing on the beaches. This diversity makes Ashkara an ideal place for tourists. During the summer, tourists enjoy relatively cold weather in Ashkara. The weather is pleasant during winters as well. In short, it is a place in the Sultanate where the weather is always moderate.
It has golden sand beaches, which attract tourists, as well as flocks of exotic birds, while there are a number of homes and guest houses that welcome tourists and visitors. Ashkara is rich in the performing arts, and the governorate’s men also present some of these during social and national events. Tourists can enjoy great food in Ashkara, on land as well as at sea, with seafood being sourced from the nearby port.
They can also rent a boat to take a tour and go fishing. These are among the best activities liked by tourists in the area. They can also camp on the sands of the beaches, which are known to be among the best in the Sultanate. Ashkara has a number of hotel establishments, including two hotels, two rest houses, five guest houses and a camp. This provides an opportunity to tourists to enjoy the place and have a great view of the Arabian Sea. Its tranquillity and pleasant warmth continues to attract tourists.