Omran, the Government of Oman's tourism development and investment arm, today announced the opening of a new Natural History Museum at Swiss-Belhotel Resort, Masirah Island. The centre gives visitors the chance to learn more about the unique wildlife and marine environment surrounding Oman's largest island.
The centre has already proved popular with hotel guests and with the local community, with more than 350 people visiting it so far, including VVIP, dignitaries, Ministers, and Ambassadors during their recent visit to Masirah.
The centre provides invaluable information about the wealth and diversity of the island's birdlife, it coral reef ecosystem and its other wildlife. It also highlights the fact that Masirah is home to the world's largest population of nesting turtles and hosts all four of Oman's nesting species - Loggerhead, Green, Olive Ridley and Hawksbill.
Eng. Wael Bin Ahmed Al Lawati, CEO, Omran, said:
"Omran has a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility and we take pride in preserving the environments in which we work. Oman's natural history is one of our greatest assets in promoting Oman as a unique tourism destination.
"The Natural History Museum at Swiss-Belhotel Resort, Masirah Island will play an important role in educating the local community about the unique and precious habitat around the island and will help in the preservation of one of Oman's most diverse ecosystems."
Joe Coelho, GM Swiss-Belhotel Resort Masirah Island, commented:
"The centre has been hugely popular with the local community already, especially with schools. It offers a fun and interactive way for people to learn about their surroundings and about the beautiful island of Masirah. We are delighted with the response from the public so far and we look forward to continuing to welcome people through its doors."
Swiss-Belhotel Resort Masirah is located 15km off the southeast coast of Oman in Masirah, an area famed for its sandy beaches and a home to all four of Oman's nesting species of turtles. The island is magnificently diverse, offering a wide range of water-sports and excursions into the nearby hills.
The resort features 14 standard rooms, two suites, four chalets and one room for people with special needs, along with restaurants, swimming pool, conference facilities, a fully-equipped fitness centre and a children's area. Guests can also relax on the beach or partake in a number of sports including beach volleyball and basketball.
The 21-room resort is owned by Omran and operated by Swiss-Belhotel International.
