Muscat: Al Hoota Cave, most famously known for its rare population of blind fish and the stunning stalactites hanging from the ceilings and stalagmites reaching up from the floor, is preparing to enhance facilities to attract more visitors to the cave.
In a statement to Oman News Agency, Salim bin Ali al Shaksi, director of operations, Al Hoota Cave, said that there is a study to expand the cave’s facilities to accommodate more visitors. But, in light of the pandemic, Al Hoota Cave saw a significant drop in the number of the visitors as it reached only 12,000 people, down from nearly 60,1000 before pandemic.
Located in the wilayat of Al Hamra in Dakhliyah governorate, the cave is estimated to be more than two million years old.
Al Shaksi expects the numbers of visitors to the cave would increase now with the decision of the Supreme Committee in charge of dealing with COVID-19 opening tourism activities on the basis of fall in cases and rapid pace of vaccination .
He pointed out that there are some promotional campaigns through tourist offices or social media aimed at increasing the number of visitors.
“The pleasant weather, in addition to the noticeable demand for domestic tourism will make Al Hoota Cave a highly-sought after destination. The coming period will witness an increase in the number of visitors”, he added.
Extending over 4.5 km, the tour of the cave lasts 45 minutes. The cave is kept dark, as to preserve the ecosystem inside. It is only lit with small spotlights which tour guides can turn on and off as they proceed down the path of the cave.
