The forum from April 24-27 seeks to boost domestic tourism. It will be held by the South Batinah governorate's tourism department in cooperation with Raya al Ruqaishi Institute. Speaking to Muscat Daily Ali al Ajmi, director of Tourism Department in South Batinah said, 'The forum will be organised in cooperation with the Omani Women's Association in Rustaq, Rustaq Municipality and the Sultan Qaboos University (SQU).

'It will include a classic car show, a motorcycle show, folklore and various theatrical performances.' There are a host of other tourist sites in South Batinah that are on the department's list of activities, Ajmi said, 'Most of the wilayats of South Batinah such as Rustaq, Nakhal, Musannah, Al Awabi are replete with tourist sites and we are in touch with several schools and associations to organise different events throughout the year.'

Ajmi also spoke about Rustaq's famous and historically important landmarks: Al Hazm Castle and the imposing Rustaq Fort. Al Hazm Castle: It was built by Imam Sultan bin Saif al Ya'rubi in the early 18th century. The castle features a massive, beautiful wooden door with intricate carings. It's uniqueness lies in its roof that are held by columns instead of the traditional wooden support.

The width of each wall is not less than 3m and it has fortified towers and cannon openings in the upper storeys. Rustaq Fort: A much older fort dating back to the 13th century is near the city market and can be seen from the surrounding hills. The fort is cradled among four tall towers, the tallest being more than 18m high. The old souq of Rustaq is located right next to the fort. A popular destination is the Ain al Kasfa hot water spring which is popular for its therapeutic sulphur content.

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