Wakan Village in Oman to Benefit from New Cable Car System for Improved Accessibility

The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism is currently assessing a new cable car project that will improve tourist access to Wakan Village, which is in the beautiful Nakhal area of South Batinah in Oman. The project will create a contemporary system that will reduce traffic problems which emerge from the mountain roads that lead to the village located at 2000 meters above sea level.

Rising Tourism Demand in Wakan Village

In 2025, Wakan Village recorded an impressive 40,000 visitors, marking a significant rise in its tourism numbers. The village is renowned for its unique agricultural terraces, as well as its cool climate, making it a favourite destination for nature enthusiasts and those looking for a tranquil getaway. Additionally, the annual blossoming of apricot and plum trees between January and February attracts visitors from across the world, further boosting its appeal as a top tourist destination.

The planned cable car service will allow visitors to reach this picturesque location comfortably, bypassing the challenging mountain ascent. As the village continues to grow as a tourism hotspot, the new project will ensure that accessibility is improved while preserving the area’s natural charm.

Cable Car System to Alleviate Congestion

Currently, visitors who make the trek to Wakan Village are faced with a physically demanding climb, which involves navigating 700 steps to reach the summit. This can be strenuous for many, particularly during the peak tourist seasons. The introduction of a cable car system will not only provide a quicker and more convenient option but will also reduce the environmental impact of road traffic on the mountain paths.

The cable car project is part of a broader initiative to improve the tourism infrastructure in Oman, enhancing accessibility to its most famous destinations. Dr Al Mu’atasim Nasser al Hilali, Director of the Heritage and Tourism Department in South Batinah, confirmed that the cable car will be a key component of the government’s plans to increase the number of visitors to the region while preserving the area’s cultural and natural heritage.

Preserving Cultural Heritage While Promoting Tourism

The project also aims to integrate local heritage into the broader tourism experience. In addition to the cable car, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism is working closely with local communities to transform traditional homes into heritage lodges and guesthouses. This initiative is designed to provide authentic experiences for visitors while ensuring that local culture and traditions are preserved.

Moreover, the government is improving the existing mountain paths by adding safety guardrails and rest areas, which will benefit those who prefer hiking. These enhancements will help strike a balance between promoting eco-tourism and maintaining the region’s natural beauty. Visitors will be able to enjoy the best of both worlds, modern amenities combined with traditional Omani hospitality.

Economic and Social Impact of the Project

The cable car system is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy by increasing the flow of visitors to the area. By providing easier access to Wakan Village, the project will enhance tourism revenue, encourage local employment, and promote regional economic growth. The partnership with the local community will also help create sustainable opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs, further enriching the local economy.

As part of its efforts to develop regional tourism, Oman is focusing on projects that integrate modern infrastructure with the preservation of natural landscapes. The cable car initiative will be one of several projects that aim to elevate the country’s standing as a sustainable tourist destination while contributing to its economic recovery.

Enhancing Wakan Village’s Tourism Appeal

The cable car project in Wakan Village will provide significant benefits to both tourists and the local community. By improving accessibility and safety, the project will make it easier for visitors to explore the beauty and heritage of this unique destination. With the introduction of modern infrastructure such as the cable car system and the revitalisation of traditional homes, Wakan Village will continue to attract tourists while preserving its rich cultural legacy.

Oman Universal Tour Development Project will use the Wakan Village cable car system to establish sustainable travel connections, which will help Oman become a top eco-friendly tourism destination in the Gulf region.

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Oman’s Wakan Village Attracts Thirty-Nine Thousand Nine Hundred Seventy-Six Visitors in 2025, Showcasing Rising Popularity Among Travelers

Oman’s Wakan Village has seen a remarkable rise in popularity in 2025, attracting a total of thirty-nine thousand nine hundred seventy-six visitors, reflecting the growing appeal of this scenic destination. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, mild climate, and unique cultural experiences, Wakan has become a must-visit spot for both local and international travelers. The village’s appeal lies in its year-round tourism offerings, including vibrant seasonal landscapes like apricot and plum blossoms, mountain hiking trails, and agricultural experiences. With its cool temperatures, especially during the winter months, and the charm of its ancient mountain paths, Wakan has successfully positioned itself as a top tourist destination, contributing significantly to the rise in visitor numbers. This surge is also supported by ongoing infrastructure improvements and the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism’s initiatives to enhance the village’s tourism potential.

Wakan Village, nestled in the Wilayat of Nakhal in South Al Batinah Governorate, Oman, has seen a significant boost in tourist numbers in 2025. With 39,976 visitors, up from 36,759 in 2024, the village has quickly established itself as a must-visit destination, attracting both local and international tourists. This rise in visitor numbers highlights the growing appeal of Wakan Village, driven by its unique mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences.

The village’s appeal can be largely attributed to its diverse tourism offerings. Wakan Village is a haven for adventure enthusiasts, particularly those with a passion for hiking and exploring scenic trails. Ancient mountain paths and agricultural routes provide a captivating experience for those who want to explore the rugged beauty of Oman. Dr. Al Mu’atasim Al Hilali, Director of the Heritage and Tourism Department in South Al Batinah Governorate, noted that the annual visitors to Wakan Village have increased steadily, from 35,302 in 2023 to nearly 40,000 in 2025. This consistent rise shows the village’s growing prominence in Oman’s tourism sector.

Several factors contribute to Wakan’s increasing popularity. One of the major reasons is the mild climate the village enjoys, especially during the winter months. Visitors often flock to the village as a retreat from the scorching heat of Oman’s lower altitudes. During the apricot and plum blossom season, which typically starts between January and February, Wakan becomes a vibrant canvas of delicate white and pink flowers. The breathtaking beauty of this transformation attracts nature lovers, photographers, and travelers eager to witness the natural wonders of the region.

The apricot and plum blossoms are not the only seasonal attraction. Wakan is also well-known for its grape harvest season, further drawing in tourists. Situated at an elevation of 2,000 meters above sea level, Wakan’s climate is especially conducive to agriculture, allowing residents to grow a variety of crops. The cool temperatures during the harvest season offer relief from the intense heat experienced at lower altitudes. These agricultural offerings, combined with the village’s unique climate, make it a year-round destination for visitors.

One of the village’s standout features is its mountain hiking trails. The cooler temperatures during the winter months make it the perfect time for hiking, with visitors taking on the challenge of climbing 700 steps that lead to the summit. While the climb can be strenuous, the panoramic views and sense of accomplishment make it well worth the effort. In the summer months, however, the intense heat makes this hike less popular, as the sun makes the climb particularly difficult. As a result, the winter months see a higher influx of tourists seeking to experience the charm of Wakan’s mountain trails.

Wakan’s resemblance to Japan’s sakura (cherry blossom) season is another factor that boosts its tourism appeal. Both amateur and professional photographers are drawn to the village to capture the vibrant, floral landscapes, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts. The picturesque surroundings, combined with the village’s tranquil atmosphere, offer a perfect setting for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

In response to the growing number of visitors, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism is working to improve the infrastructure of Wakan Village. The Ministry is focusing on enhancing the village’s mountain trails, installing guardrails, and adding rest areas for the comfort and safety of tourists. Additionally, efforts are underway to convert Wakan’s old houses into functional accommodations for travelers. By collaborating with local residents, the Ministry is encouraging the creation of heritage lodges that will provide an authentic experience for tourists.

The expansion of infrastructure also includes the construction of additional parking facilities to accommodate the growing number of vehicles during peak seasons. Wakan is becoming a popular destination, especially during the blossom and harvest seasons, so the need for efficient traffic management has become essential. The Ministry is working with the Royal Oman Police to ensure smoother traffic flow during busy periods, and future plans include the installation of a cable car or other transport systems to further ease congestion.

Wakan Village’s climate, with its cool winters and moderate summers, makes it an attractive destination throughout the year. The pleasant weather conditions have also allowed local residents to benefit from the region’s fertile land, growing a variety of crops that play a crucial role in the village’s agricultural economy. The agricultural products of Wakan—such as apricots, pomegranates, plums, walnuts, and grapes—help solidify the village’s reputation as a year-round tourist attraction. Visitors can not only enjoy the natural beauty of the area but also experience the charm of a rural Omani village, complete with lush orchards and farmland.

The village’s unique blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and diverse agricultural offerings make Wakan Village a one-of-a-kind destination in Oman. Whether it’s hiking up the mountain trails, marveling at the apricot and plum blossoms, or experiencing the local agriculture firsthand, Wakan offers a truly authentic Omani experience. As the village continues to grow in popularity, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism’s initiatives will ensure that Wakan remains an accessible, sustainable, and thriving destination for years to come.

Oman’s Wakan Village attracted thirty-nine thousand nine hundred seventy-six visitors in 2025, reflecting its growing popularity due to its scenic beauty, mild climate, and diverse tourism offerings. Seasonal highlights like the apricot and plum blossoms, combined with mountain trails and cultural experiences, have solidified its status as a sought-after destination.

In conclusion, Wakan Village’s remarkable rise in tourism is a testament to the unique combination of its scenic beauty, rich heritage, and agricultural wealth. The village offers something for everyone—from adventure seekers and nature lovers to photographers and cultural enthusiasts. With ongoing infrastructure improvements and community engagement, Wakan Village is poised to become one of the most sought-after destinations in Oman, drawing travelers from around the world to experience its serene landscapes and authentic Omani charm.

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