Oman Starts Excavation of 25 Archaeological Tombs in Al Mabilah

Al Mabilah Excavation: 25 Tombs Under Study in Oman

Muscat:  The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has begun rescue excavation works in Al Mabilah in the Wilayat of Seeb, Muscat Governorate, covering 25 archaeological tombs.

The excavations form part of preparatory activities linked to housing projects and residential planning in the area. They align with the Ministry’s efforts to safeguard archaeological heritage and address sites affected by urban expansion through scientific methods.

In parallel, the Ministry is implementing a training programme in cooperation with Sultan Qaboos University, the University of Nizwa and the Historical Association of Oman.

A specialised workshop is being held at the premises of the Historical Association of Oman, addressing key aspects of archaeological surveys and excavation techniques. The sessions are delivered by academics and specialists, contributing to skills development and knowledge exchange.

Eng. Ali Hamoud Al Mahrouqi, Director of the Department of Archaeological Surveys and Excavations, said the project aims to document the site impacted by urban expansion and identify its archaeological features.

He added that the work will support a deeper understanding of historical settlement patterns and facilitate collaboration among specialists. The site was selected due to the risk posed to its tombs by urban encroachment and environmental factors, including flooding.

The excavation plan includes surveying and documenting the site, examining surrounding areas, and recording all findings using scientific standards. Discovered artefacts will be catalogued and preserved accordingly.

The Ministry also continues to adopt digital tools to support site access and awareness, including applications and QR code systems that provide visitors with detailed information about locations and discoveries.

These efforts form part of ongoing cooperation between the Sultanate of Oman and academic and research institutions in archaeology, which has led to the discovery of numerous sites dating back to different historical periods. These discoveries contribute to enriching the cultural and tourism sectors through exhibitions, museums and visitor centres.