Monday 19 / January / 2026
Muscat: Omani Astronomical Society has announced the publication of its second research paper, which stands as the first comprehensive study of its kind in the Sultanate of Oman to address the astro-tourism sector, focusing on its current reality and future development prospects.
The research paper, titled “Astronomical Tourism in the Sultanate of Oman,” was published in the International Journal of Hospitality & Tourism Management, issued by the Science Publishing Group.
The study was prepared by lead researcher Dr. Isshaq Yahya Al Shuaili and Ali Amer Al Sheibani from the Omani Astronomical Society’s Research Department. The study focuses on the natural, geographical, and cultural potential possessed by the Sultanate of Oman to develop astro-tourism as a sustainable, knowledge-based tourism model.
The study confirms that astro-tourism encompasses the development of recreational and educational activities related to the universe and celestial phenomena.
It further contributes to disseminating scientific knowledge, developing human capital, and supporting economic development in remote areas.
The paper examines the current status of astro-tourism in Oman, emphasizing that this sector represents a promising development opportunity, particularly in remote regions such as Jabal Shams, Al Sharqiyah Sands, and the Empty Quarter.
These areas are characterised by dark skies, low levels of light pollution, and a dry climate that provides a high number of clear nights suitable for high-quality astronomical observations throughout the year.
Furthermore, the study highlights Oman’s geographical advantages, such as its strategic location at the southeastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, which grants it a diversity of terrain ranging from vast deserts to high mountain plateaus, providing ideal conditions for stargazing.
Dr. Isshaq Yahya Al Shuaili, Chairman of the Omani Astronomical Society, stated: “This study is a first step toward placing the Sultanate of Oman on the global astro-tourism map. It highlights the unique geographical and cultural advantages that Oman possesses, such as maritime and agricultural heritage linked to astronomy, alongside the potential to establish world-class astronomical observatories in governorates such as Al Wusta and Dhofar.”
In a statement to Oman News Agency (ONA), he added: “Astro-tourism contributes to bolstering the local economy by creating job opportunities for Omani youth, supporting sustainable development in rural areas, and disseminating scientific knowledge, while emphasizing the importance of protecting the nighttime environment from light pollution.”
The study also shed light on Oman’s rich astronomical heritage, including celestial navigation practices among Omani sailors, the use of stars as agricultural calendars in the Aflaj system, oral star maps within desert communities, and the integration of astronomy into traditional architecture such as castles and forts.
Additionally, the study compared the Sultanate of Oman with several successful international models in astro-tourism, such as the Coquimbo region in Chile. It proposed expanding Dark Sky Reserves and establishing Radio Quiet Zones (RQZs), thereby enhancing the Sultanate of Oman’s scientific and tourism value on an international level.
The paper noted significant events such as the AMADEE-18 Mars mission simulation in the Marmul desert in Dhofar Governorate, which highlighted Oman’s unique geological characteristics, as well as the annular solar eclipse in December 2020, which attracted over 300 observers from 12 countries to the Ras Al Ruways area (the eclipse path).
It is noted that this paper is the second for the Omani Astronomical Society, following its first research paper published in 2025 regarding aurora observations in the Sultanate of Oman, which documented the first sighting of the aurora in the Middle East from Jabal Shams.
These achievements come within the framework of efforts by the Omani Astronomical Society, established in 2008, to promote scientific research, disseminate astronomical and space sciences, and highlight national potential in the scientific and tourism sectors, in alignment with Oman Vision 2040. -ONA
