Latest news with #AlBatinahNorth
Zawya
31-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Omani exporters familiarised with modern customs systems
MUSCAT: The Directorate-General for Trade, Industry and Investment Promotion in Al Batinah North Governorate, in collaboration with Credit Oman, wrapped up a training programme for Omani export companies focused on navigating modern customs systems and understanding the laws and regulations related to trade and export. The four-day programme, which concluded on July 30, 2025, involved 30 entities in the governorate active in the import and export sectors. Said bin Rashid al Balushi, Director of the Investment Promotion Department at the Directorate-General for Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion in Al Batinah North, stated that the training programme is part of the ministry's efforts to support and empower Omani exporters by raising awareness of the technical and procedural aspects related to the harmonised system and customs tariffs. He emphasised that this is a critical foundation for facilitating the movement of goods and enhancing trade exchange. He added, 'Through this training programme, we aimed to create a supportive environment for Omani exports and enable institutions to capitalise on opportunities for access to global markets by gaining a deeper understanding of customs systems and credit insurance mechanisms, thus enhancing the competitiveness of national products on regional and international levels.' Ali bin Khamis al Fazari, a customs expert and trainer for the programme, remarked, 'Customs play a fundamental role in organising and facilitating international trade. We provided participants with the necessary knowledge to understand the harmonised system, which is a crucial tool in international trade that clearly defines the customs classifications of goods, thereby streamlining customs processes more efficiently.'
Observer
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
Dhofar Municipality launches ‘Return of the Past' for Khareef Dhofar Season
SALALAH: With a refreshed design that embraces heritage and Omani identity, Dhofar Municipality has launched the 'Return of the Past' event in the Al Saadah area, as one of the key attractions of the Khareef Dhofar Season 2025. The event runs from July 10 to August 31, offering an immersive cultural experience that revives the essence of traditional Omani life from Dhofar's diverse environments and across the Sultanate of Oman. 'Return of the Past' brings to life the memory of Dhofar — its people, culture and customs — through a faithful recreation of the governorate's three traditional settings: the urban, rural and Bedouin environments. The event presents these lifestyles in engaging ways that connect younger generations to their heritage, bridging the past and present. Visitors can explore the traditional souq corridors featuring handmade crafts and artisan products created by skilled local hands. A popular corner offers authentic Omani dishes in a nostalgic setting that recalls the aromas and ambience of the past. The site also includes a village theatre that hosts daily performances of the traditional Al Bara'a dance by local folk troupes, alongside evening gatherings and interactive displays of traditional Omani games, encouraging family and child participation in a warm, communal atmosphere. The site hosts daily performances of the traditional Al Bara'a dance by local folk troupes This year, the event also features the participation of several governorates, including Al Batinah North, Al Sharqiyah North & South and Al Dakhiliyah, each showcasing their cultural heritage throughout the season. Live performances of traditional arts, chants and theatrical sketches capture the rich folkloric diversity of Oman and offer glimpses into village life of earlier times. Significant enhancements have been introduced this year. The main theatre has been expanded to accommodate larger crowds, responding to growing daily attendance. A recreated version of the iconic Muttrah Souq allows visitors to experience its narrow alleyways and historic charm, complete with authentic goods and traditional wares. New features include simulations of heritage sports, a dedicated Bedouin theatre space with dramatic scenes of desert life and a storytelling corner where oral traditions and folk tales from Dhofar are presented in a captivating format that blends entertainment with education. Visitors will also enjoy live cooking displays of popular Omani dishes such as 'Aseedah, Harees, Quras and Luqaimat, prepared using traditional utensils and woodfire cooking methods. A dedicated area supports home-based businesses in presenting their craft and food products, further enriching the event's cultural offering. With its authentic portrayal of Dhofar's traditional environments and broad national participation, 'Return of the Past' stands out as a leading destination within the Khareef Dhofar Season 2025, drawing locals and tourists alike to celebrate Oman's living heritage.
Zawya
12-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman's first solar-powered community launched
AL KHABOURAH: In a landmark development, the initial phase of Oman's first eco-friendly residential community was launched here on Wednesday for families affected by Cyclone Shaheen in Al Batinah North Governorate. The launch was held under the auspices of Dr Khalfan bin Said al Shueili, Minister of Housing and Urban Planning, and Dr Laila bint Ahmed al Najjar, Minister of Social Development. Developed by local charity association Dar Al Atta'a, the neighbourhood dubbed as Hay Al Atta'a (Al Atta'a Neighbourhood), is located in San'aa Bani Ghafir, Wilayat of Al Khabourah. The eco-friendly integrated neighbourhood, spanning an area of 1,000 m2, will include 36 solar-powered residential units, a community centre, commercial shops and a mosque. It is the result of collaboration between the association, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning, the Office of the Governor of Al Batinah North, and the Municipality of Al Khabourah, with support from the local community. Speaking to the Observer, Founder and Chairperson of Dar Al Atta'a Association, Maryam bint Issa al Zadjaliyah, shared that the initiative was born in the aftermath of Cyclone Shaheen in 2021. Oman's first solar-powered community launched 'The idea for Hay Atta'a emerged in the wake of Cyclone Shaheen. In response, the association launched a fundraising campaign through which we were able to collect RO 1 million. As an organisation, we always strive to develop sustainable projects. Rather than providing short-term aid like food or furnishings, we envisioned a long-lasting solution — to build permanent homes for families severely impacted by the cyclone, especially those who lacked the means to rebuild on their own,' she said. Significantly, the use of green energy is the most significant feature of the neighbourhood, said the Chairperson of Dar Al Atta'a Association. 'Without a doubt, the most significant is the use of green energy. It reduces residents' electricity costs, and if they generate a surplus, they can sell it back to the government. This approach hasn't been implemented in this area before, so it's an exciting innovation.' In addition to solar power, the neighbourhood is also equipped with a sustainable wastewater management system, designed to reduce and recycle water use. When asked why the association opted to build an eco-friendly neighbourhood, instead of conventional housing, she emphasised that the project's goal was to introduce a new model for sustainable, community-centred living. 'As an association, we always strive to remain attuned to current developments. With this project, our goal extended beyond sustainability — we wanted to create a lifestyle, a holistic way of living.' The first phase of the project witnessed the inauguration of 36 eco-friendly residential units, each spanning an area of approximately 272m2. The five-bedroom homes are equipped with 48 solar panels each. According to officials, residents are expected to occupy the units soon. The second phase of the project, which is currently under development, will include a community centre, commercial shops and a mosque. It is expected to be ready within two years. 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Observer
04-05-2025
- Sport
- Observer
Seeb target treble, Salam eye redemption in Volleyball Final
MUSCAT, MAY 4 All eyes will be on Sohar Sports Complex this evening as the curtain falls on the First Division Volleyball League season with a highly anticipated showdown between two giants of the sport in Oman Seeb and Al Salam. The final will kick off at 5 pm, under auspice of Mohammed bin Sulaiman al Kindi, Governor of Al Batinah North. Seeb enter the clash eyeing a historic treble, having already secured the Super Cup title this season with a straight-sets win over Al Salam, and following it up by clinching the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth Shield after defeating Majees, again in straight sets. Jamal al Maamari, Seeb coach, commented, "Finals are a different kind of game; they're not measured by previous results. Despite Super Cup win over Al Salam, we deeply respect them and recognise their strengths. This week we focused on mental preparation and maintaining high concentration. We'll give everything we have to bring joy to Seeb's fans." On the other side, Al Salam enter the final driven by a desire for revenge, aiming to end Seeb's dominance and capture a long-awaited title. The team relies on a mix of youth and veteran players and hopes to capitalise on any opportunity to pressure the defending champions. Player Ahmed al Toobi said, 'We're living an extraordinary season. We've won the Super Cup and the Shield, and now we aim to complete it with the league title. At Seeb, we've learned that titles are earned through effort, and we'll give it our all to achieve the dream.'
Observer
28-04-2025
- Business
- Observer
Employment challenges discussed
SUHAR: The Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), Al Batinah North branch, held a meeting to address challenges related to recruiting and employing national talent, in the presence of Khalid bin Salim al Ghammari, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Labour for Labour. The meeting, held on Monday with several representatives and owners of factories and companies in the governorate, reviewed the private sector's perspectives on Omanisation and replacement policies, along with proposals to enhance the effectiveness of these policies across various economic sectors. Discussions also focused on strengthening public-private partnerships to create a stimulating work environment capable of efficiently and sustainably integrating national workforce. The meeting was attended by MMohammed bin Sulaiman al Kindi, Governor of Al Batinah North, alongside several officials from government and private entities in the governorate. - ONA
