Dhofar archaeology season opens comparisons between Al Baleed and Mirbat

At a presentation in Salalah on 29 October 2026, Dhofar's Directorate General of Heritage and Tourism outlined findings from an archaeological season covering Al Baleed, Al Rabat and Mirbat, according to an Oman News Agency report. The lecture described work by the University of Naples mission from Italy between 27 September and 29 October.

At Mirbat's market, the report described preliminary evidence associated with the 12th and 13th centuries CE, including pottery types less common at Al Baleed. This comparison offers material for studying the history of both sites, but does not by itself establish a specific trade route.

At Al Baleed, work covered the production area and excavations at the south-western gate to study its construction history, alongside examination of a space that may have housed horses. At Al Rabat, documentation of cemetery gravestones continued ahead of comparisons with Al Baleed's cemetery.

The report described the use of geographic information systems to understand the sites' layouts and extent. The findings remain an account of one research season: the available news report does not include the complete excavation report or details of how finds were dated, and gives no publication date for the scientific study.