The natural creeks in the Wilayat of Sur in the South Al Sharqiyah Governorate are a significant part of the ecosystem and are essential for tourism purposes. These creeks, including Ras Al Jinz, Al Hajar, Grama, Shia, Al Batah, Al Rasagh, Qalhat, and Tiwi, have been included in tourism development plans to attract visitors. This year, the Wilayat of Sur has been designated as the capital of Arab tourism, distinguishing it from other governorates in Oman.
Dr. Yahya bin Badr Al-Ma’awali, Governor of South Al Sharqiyah, stated that plans are in place to develop the natural creeks in Sur for recreational and cosmetic purposes. The development aims to create beautiful waterfronts, enhance coastal activities, promote excursion tourism, camping, and eco-tourism to boost the economic, commercial, and tourism sectors in the region. The first phase of development has been approved for Al Batah Creek, involving cleaning, deepening the creek, and establishing tourist and investment areas in the vicinity.
Khor Al-Batah, one of the largest creeks in the Wilayat of Sur, covers about 5 square kilometers and serves as a commercial port for ships and fishing vessels. The development plan for Al-Batah Creek also includes the establishment of hotels, chalets, and other tourist facilities on both sides of the creek to encourage investment in the area. The second phase of development will focus on providing basic services to further attract investors to the region.
Projects are underway to develop other natural creeks in the region, such as Khor Grama in Ras Al Hadd and Khor Al Hajar in Ras Al Hadd. A tourist development marina is being constructed in Khor Grama, and a marina for fishermen has been established at Khor Al Hajar. Additionally, beautification projects are being implemented in areas like Al Tinah in Jabal Eid, which will include a walking and cycling path, open theatre, parking spaces, children’s play area, and more funded by the Omani Liquefied Natural Gas Company.
The writer and researcher in maritime history, Hamoud bin Hamad Al-Ghailani, highlighted the historical significance of the creeks in the Wilayat of Sur. Many of these creeks were historically used as ports, harbours, anchorages, and refuges from winds and waves, serving as vital commercial hubs for various civilizations. Archaeological discoveries in Ras Al Jinz Creek have revealed remnants of shipbuilding tools and monuments dating back to the Majan civilization in the fourth millennium BC.
Khor Al-Hajar and Khor Grama have also played important roles in the commercial activities of the region, with traces of commercial activity dating back to the Bronze era found in these areas. The creeks were crucial ports for ships arriving from civilizations like Molukha, Indus Valley, and Pharaonic Egypt, contributing to the exchange of goods and services in the region. Al-Khor ports and waters were active during the nineteenth century and were used as storage sites for fuel during World War II, with remnants of warehouses still visible today.
