Museums Play Crucial Role in Sustainable Tourism Development

Over 42 researchers, academics, and experts from 21 countries gathered at the Oman Across Ages Museum in the Wilayat of Manah to discuss the vital role of museums in driving sustainable tourism, preserving cultural identity, and fostering intercultural dialogue. The three-day International Conference on 'Museums and their Role in Tourism Development' aims to highlight the museums' ability to function as dynamic educational and cultural platforms, contributing to economic diversification and embracing modern digital technologies. The event coincides with International Museum Day, underscoring the significance of museums in today's society.

Key Takeaways:

• The conference brings together over 42 researchers, academics, and experts from 21 countries, reflecting Oman's growing stature as a regional hub for museum and cultural studies.
• The museums today have become integral pillars of sustainable tourism, transforming history into interactive experiences that engage both the senses and the intellect.
• The conference features a poster exhibition and six specialised workshops delivered by experts from Oman and abroad, focusing on fields such as digital marketing for museums, heritage conservation techniques, and community engagement for museums.
• The conference programme covers four key theme areas: museum and cultural institutions, economy and museum tourism, the cultural and educational role of museums, and digital technologies in museum exhibitions.
• The organising committee received nearly 300 research submissions, of which 42 were accepted and will be presented during eight intensive scientific sessions over the three-day conference.
• The International Council of Museums (ICOM) plays a crucial role in enhancing museum development, supporting global collaboration, and providing guidance during times of cultural crises.
• Dr Ech Cherki Dahmali, President of the Arab Organization for Museums and a leading member of ICOM, highlighted the importance of museum development and global collaboration in his keynote address.

Statistics:

• 42 researchers, academics, and experts from 21 countries.
• 300 research submissions received by the organising committee.
• 8 intensive scientific sessions over the three-day conference.
• 6 specialised workshops delivered by experts from Oman and abroad.
• 4 key theme areas covered in the conference programme: museum and cultural institutions, economy and museum tourism, the cultural and educational role of museums, and digital technologies in museum exhibitions.

Sources:

• [Source 1] The conference was organised by the Oman Across Ages Museum in cooperation with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and the National Records and Archives Authority.
• [Source 2] The conference brings together over 42 researchers, academics, and experts from 21 countries.
• [Source 3] Dr Ech Cherki Dahmali, President of the Arab Organization for Museums and a leading member of ICOM, provided insights on the importance of museum development and global collaboration during his keynote address.
• [Source 4] The conference programme covers four key theme areas: museum and cultural institutions, economy and museum tourism, the cultural and educational role of museums, and digital technologies in museum exhibitions.