Wednesday 24 / December / 2025
Muscat: A major community-led initiative has successfully completed the maintenance and enhancement of the Via Ferrata (W6) trail on Jebel Shams, Oman’s highest peak and a premier destination for adventure tourism.
Overseen by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, the project aimed to improve the safety and durability of the popular iron cable route, which is internationally recognized for its dramatic views and challenging terrain. The trail, which spans 120 meters along a sheer cliff face near the hanging pool of Sab Bani Khamis, is a key feature for climbers and hikers navigating the rugged mountain landscape.
The maintenance work involved replacing aging anchor bolts with 48 new stainless steel (316-grade) fixtures, known for their high resistance to corrosion and strength in harsh mountain environments. These upgrades ensure greater stability and safety for adventurers relying on the cable for balance and support during their ascent or descent.
Mahmood bin Nasser Al-Fahdi, an adventure technician involved in the project, emphasized that the initiative was entirely voluntary and community-driven. “We used specialized equipment and high-quality materials to meet international safety standards,” he said, noting that the enhancements significantly boost the trail’s reliability.
Jebel Shams, with its rare geological formations and sweeping views over Wadi Nakhr often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Arabia continues to attract both local and international visitors. The Via Ferrata trail, which traverses one of the world’s deepest rock fissures, is considered one of the longest and most prominent metal-assisted climbing routes in Oman.
Al-Fahdi highlighted the trail’s exceptional tourism value, citing its natural beauty, ecological diversity, and the presence of wild flora along the route. The recent improvements are expected to further solidify Jebel Shams’ status as a top-tier destination for nature and adventure tourism in the region.
