Per the government announcement, Oman showcased its experience in supporting capacity building within the World Heritage Convention framework during an event held in Busan, Republic of Korea on 25 July 2026. This initiative, highlighted by Ambassador Amna Salim Al Balushi, represents a deliberate move to establish Oman as a key player in safeguarding cultural heritage across East Africa.
Background
The event, titled “Strengthening African Expertise in World Heritage”, took place on the sidelines of the 48th session of the World Heritage Committee. This committee is the governing body of UNESCO’s World Heritage List, responsible for evaluating nominations and ultimately deciding which sites are recognized for their outstanding universal value.
Since 2021, Oman has been implementing a strategic programme in partnership with UNESCO. The objective is to support East African countries through strengthening national institutions, developing specialized expertise, and empowering local communities involved in managing World Heritage sites. This program directly addresses the need for increased representation of African nations on the World Heritage List.
The statement does not address the specific funding mechanisms or total budget allocated to this initiative. However, the scale of the investment – training approximately 250 heritage professionals – suggests a significant commitment from the Sultanate.
Analysis
Oman’s approach appears driven by several intertwined incentives. Firstly, there is a clear desire to bolster its international standing as a responsible custodian of global cultural heritage. Secondly, the program directly aligns with Oman’s broader diplomatic strategy – fostering partnerships and increasing influence within key multilateral organizations such as UNESCO.
The focus on East Africa represents a strategic shift for Oman. Traditionally, the Sultanate’s foreign policy has been largely concentrated in the Arabian Peninsula and South Asia. Expanding its engagement into this region reflects an ambition to diversify its geopolitical portfolio and build relationships with rapidly developing nations.
If implemented as described, this programme would contribute significantly to the sustainable implementation of the World Heritage Convention within East African countries. The success of this initiative hinges on the long-term commitment of both Oman and UNESCO, alongside the willingness of recipient nations to adopt and adapt the program’s methodologies.
Implications
For policymakers in East Africa, the programme presents an opportunity to enhance their capacity for heritage management. Successful implementation could lead to increased recognition on the World Heritage List, attracting tourism revenue and stimulating local economies.
From a regional stability perspective, this engagement supports Oman’s broader efforts to foster cooperation and dialogue within the Gulf region and beyond. It underscores a commitment to multilateralism – a counterpoint to rising tensions in the Red Sea and the wider Middle East.
The initiative also has implications for trade and security. Increased investment in heritage sites can facilitate tourism, creating economic opportunities. Simultaneously, strengthening local institutions contributes to greater stability within recipient countries, potentially mitigating risks associated with regional instability – as evidenced by recent statements regarding drone attacks on Saudi Arabia.
Outlook
Should the visit yield continued support from UNESCO and engagement from East African nations, Oman’s capacity-building programme could become a model for similar initiatives globally. However, if funding is reduced or local institutions prove unable to absorb the knowledge transfer effectively, the program may lose momentum.
If the inscription of new African sites on the World Heritage List continues at the current rate, it would represent a significant achievement for Oman and its partners. Conversely, should the number of successful inscriptions decline, this could reflect challenges in meeting international standards or broader political instability within recipient countries.
Conclusion
Ambassador Al Balushi’s emphasis on ‘sustainable implementation’ leaves open a key question: can Oman secure sustained commitment from both UNESCO and the East African nations involved, ensuring this initiative transcends short-term strategic gains?