Muscat: A project to develop Beit Ar Rudaida in Nizwa province of Dakhilia Governorate, one of the most historic forts in the country. The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has invited tenders for the development of the fort in collaboration with the private sector. It is part of a plan to take advantage of historical monuments and tourist attractions to support the country’s economy.
The ministry said that the companies participating in the tender should submit their work for marketing the fort commercially and culturally, conducting cultural workshops, organizing arts and cultural events and performing various activities for the revival of the fort. The architecture of the fort should be highlighted and the local community should be included in various cultural and social events. The date for submission of tenders is June 23.
Located 24 km from Nizwa, the fort was built by Imam Sultan bin Saif Al Yaroubi who ruled from 1649 to 1679. Muhammad bin Imam Ahmad bin Saeed expanded it. The fort also houses a collection of small arms from Oman, Europe and the United States. Falaj Khatmain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, originates from Jabal Akhdar and passes close to the fort.
The fort features multiple arches, a painted roof, elaborate carvings and towers made of brick and clay.