Oman Unveils Groundbreaking Sand Sports Games In South Al Batinah, Shaping the Future of Sports Tourism: All You Need To Know

Published on December 31, 2025

The highly awaited Sand Sports Games in Oman’s South Al Batinah will be launched in January 2026, featuring not only exciting events but also the display of Oman’s natural beauty. The games will take place on the beautiful Al Abyadh sands located in the Wilayat of Nakhal allowing the visitors and participants to have an unforgettable experience of adventure sports and cultural festivity.

A Vision for Sports Tourism Growth

The announcement of the third edition of the Experience South Al Batinah initiative came during a press conference at the Governor’s office, where key officials and stakeholders gathered to discuss the details of the event. The Governor of South Al Batinah, Eng. Masoud Said Al Hashmi, revealed the exciting plans for this year’s edition, marking a significant milestone in the governorate’s efforts to boost sports tourism and enhance its tourism infrastructure.

The Sand Sports Games, scheduled for January 2026, are expected to significantly contribute to the local economy, not just through tourism but also by empowering the community through youth engagement and active participation in sports. The event will feature a variety of specialized competitions, including the much-awaited sand drag races for motorcycles and cars, which will showcase the skills of professional racers and amateur enthusiasts alike.

Supporting Youth and Local Communities

The Governor stressed that this event was designed to attract not only seasoned athletes but also to inspire the youth of Oman. With a focus on inclusivity, the games will feature demonstration activities and programs aimed at engaging local communities, especially young people, in sports activities. These programs will be spread across the various wilayats of South Al Batinah, highlighting the region’s rich cultural and natural heritage while providing ample opportunities for locals to become involved in sports tourism.

Badr Mohammed Al-Saidi, Director General of South Al Batinah Municipality, confirmed the dates for the key events: the Drag Race will take place from 15th to 17th January 2026, while the Backfire and Burnout activities will be held on 23rd January. All these events will adhere to the highest safety standards to ensure a smooth and safe experience for participants and spectators.

Boosting Tourism and Heritage Exposure

The Governor also emphasized the broader significance of the event. By integrating sports tourism with heritage and natural exploration, the games are a powerful vehicle for promoting South Al Batinah’s diverse tourism offerings. Beyond the exhilarating races, the event will be part of a larger initiative to promote Oman’s stunning landscapes, from the rugged mountains to the sweeping deserts.

Not only will these competitions serve as a major draw for adventure enthusiasts, but they will also help put South Al Batinah on the map for visitors seeking a unique blend of sports, adventure, and culture. By highlighting the natural and tourism assets of the region, the games aim to provide a qualitative experience that appeals to both local and international tourists.

Private Sector Partnership for Sustainable Growth

A critical aspect of the games’ success will be the involvement of the private sector. In partnership with Oman 4×4 Teams Club, the event will be professionally managed, ensuring a high-quality experience for both competitors and spectators. The Governor of South Al Batinah noted that the collaboration with local and regional businesses is vital in fostering sustainable tourism practices and supporting the economic development of the region.

The partnership with private entities is also seen as a way to stimulate the local economy, create job opportunities, and provide avenues for local businesses to showcase their products and services to a larger audience. From tourism operators to hospitality providers, the event will offer an economic boon for businesses across South Al Batinah, further solidifying the governorate’s status as a prime tourism destination.

A Look Ahead: The Future of Sports Tourism in Oman

As Oman continues to develop its tourism sector, the Sand Sports Games represent a forward-thinking approach to diversifying its tourism offerings. With the nation’s growing reputation as an adventure and sports tourism hotspot, events like these are likely to attract more global attention, further positioning Oman as a leading destination for unique experiences.

Engaging in sports tourism not only boosts the local economy but also enhances Oman’s international image as a country with diverse natural resources and a rich cultural heritage. The games will pave the way for future events that combine adrenaline-pumping activities with the beauty and tranquillity of Oman’s landscapes.

A Promising Step for Oman’s Sports Tourism Industry

In the Southern Al Batinah the Sand Sports Games are going to be the foundation of Oman’s sports tourism industry. Going on during January 2026, the games will reveal the magnificent mountains of Al Abyadh sands and give a unique chance of both adventure sports and the sharing of Oman’s culture. This wonderful project highlights the governorate’s determination to improve tourism, help local people, and support an ecofriendly tourism concept. As the time for the event gets nearer, it will be time for both residents and tourists to experience the change and thrill that will reveal Oman’s hidden potential of a sports tourism hub of the world.