Muscat – Oman Society of Astronomy and Space (OSAS) has announced the publication of its second research paper, marking the first comprehensive study in the sultanate to examine the astro-tourism sector, its current status and future development prospects.
Titled Astronomical Tourism in the Sultanate of Oman, the paper 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 of the OSAS Research Department.
The research explores Oman’s natural, geographical and cultural assets that support the development of astro-tourism as a sustainable, knowledge-based tourism model. It defines astro-tourism as encompassing recreational and educational activities related to astronomy and celestial phenomena, noting its role in spreading scientific awareness, developing human capital and supporting economic growth, particularly in remote areas.
The paper assesses the current state of astro-tourism in Oman and identifies it as a promising development opportunity, especially in locations such as Jabal Shams, Sharqiyah Sands and the Empty Quarter. These areas benefit from dark skies, minimal light pollution and dry climatic conditions, offering a high number of clear nights suitable for quality astronomical observation throughout the year.
The study also highlights Oman’s geographical advantages, including its strategic location at the southeastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula and its diverse terrain, ranging from deserts to high mountain plateaus, which together create ideal conditions for stargazing.
Shuaili, Chairman of OSAS, said the study represents “a first step towards placing the sultanate on the global astro-tourism map”. He noted that Oman’s advantages include its maritime and agricultural heritage linked to astronomy, alongside the potential to establish world-class astronomical observatories in governorates such as Al Wusta and Dhofar.
“Astro-tourism can help boost the local economy by creating job opportunities for Omani youth, supporting sustainable development in rural areas and disseminating scientific knowledge, while also underscoring the importance of protecting the night-time environment from light pollution,” he added.
The research sheds light on Oman’s rich astronomical heritage, including traditional celestial navigation used by Omani sailors, the use of stars as agricultural calendars within the aflaj system, oral star maps among desert communities and the incorporation of astronomical principles in traditional architecture, such as forts and castles.
In addition, the study compares Oman with successful international astro-tourism models, including Chile’s Coquimbo region, and proposes the expansion of Dark Sky Reserves and the establishment of Radio Quiet Zones to enhance the sultanate’s scientific and tourism standing globally.
The paper also references key events that have highlighted Oman’s potential in this field, such as the AMADEE-18 Mars mission simulation conducted in the Marmul desert in Dhofar, and the solar eclipse of December 2020, which attracted more than 300 observers from 12 countries to Ras al Ruways along the eclipse path.
The publication is the second research paper issued by the society, following its 2025 study on aurora borealis – Northern Lights – observations in the sultanate, which documented the first recorded sighting of the aurora in the Middle East from Jabal Shams.
Established in 2008, OSAS continues its efforts to promote scientific research, advance astronomical and space sciences, and highlight national capabilities in scientific and tourism fields, in line with the objectives of Vision 2040.
