Latest news with #AlZadjali
Observer
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
Is AI affecting authenticity of artists' creativity?
Muscat: The advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has significantly influenced the landscape of creativity in the arts, raising both opportunities and challenges for artists. AI has affected artists' creativity by providing new tools that can enhance their creative processes, while simultaneously posing threats to traditional artistic practices and livelihoods. The art scene in the Sultanate of Oman is going through a critical phase that requires serious attention from all stakeholders, as signs of decline have begun to emerge in both the visual arts and music sectors despite the presence of educational institutions, art exhibitions and young talents. According to renowned Omani artist Fahad al Zadjali, AI, which has shifted from being a supportive tool to a worrying substitute for genuine artists, is to blame. Al Zadjali believes that the excessive and unconscious reliance on AI has led to the spread of what he describes as "automated copying", lacking creativity and cultural identity. He explains that AI should be limited to serving as an assistive tool for artists, not a replacement. "A true artist begins with an idea and builds the work with effort and emotion — not by simply generating images from the Internet," Al Zadjali says. He further highlights the growing trend of printing artworks, colouring them and selling them as if they were authentic fine art. He considers this a form of "visual commerce" that reduces art to a cheap commercial product, stripping exhibitions and artistic initiatives of their cultural value and message. The decline is not limited to visual arts; Omani music is also struggling to reach international audiences as music from around the world continues to flood into Oman. Al Zadjali questions, "Where is Omani music on the global stage? Why isn't it presented as a cultural identity on international platforms like African or Eastern music?" He attributes this gap to the lack of promotion by relevant institutions. When asked about the lack of young artists continuing the artistic journey, Al Zadjali identifies the gap as stemming from weak foundational education and early-stage encouragement. Despite the existence of art classes in schools and university specialisations, he argues that this is not enough to produce real artists unless accompanied by a comprehensive support system, including competitions, workshops and international exposure. Al Zadjali stresses that saving Omani art requires a holistic set of solutions. These should start with rebuilding the art education system from schools and universities, moving beyond theoretical lessons to include competitions and workshops that discover and refine talents early on. He also calls for empowering young artists by supporting their participation in international exhibitions and events to showcase their work and expand their professional horizons. He emphasises that major cultural institutions, such as the Royal Opera House Muscat, should play a greater role in promoting Omani arts and featuring them in their programmes. He also suggests organising local exhibitions and events that focus on creativity and originality rather than mere commercial gain. Moreover, Al Zadjali highlights the need to raise public awareness about distinguishing between genuine art and commercial products. He encourages the use of AI as a supportive tool, not a replacement for authentic creative work, to help restore Omani art's cultural role and spirit. Al Zadjali stresses that reviving the artistic movement requires more than developing education or hosting exhibitions. It also demands genuine appreciation and motivation for Omani artists, both financially and morally. "One of the most impactful forms of recognition is acquiring and displaying the works of Omani artists in hotels and government buildings. Currently, most displayed works belong to non-Omani artists. Offering this kind of support could significantly help promote Omani identity and culture through authentic, locally produced art," he said. Al Zadjali believes that launching art competitions under government or private sector sponsorship, even with symbolic prizes, would motivate new generations to emerge and participate. This would create a competitive environment that revitalises the art scene, opening doors for young Omani talents to represent Oman creatively both locally and internationally.
Observer
12-04-2025
- Business
- Observer
New licence: Oman to improve connectivity with satellite internet
Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman's telecommunication services sector got a boost last week with a new competitor when Royal Decree 40/2025 issued a Category 1 license to the Satellite Communications Technologies Company (OmanSat) to provide fixed public communication services. Under the license, OmanSat will establish and operate satellite communication systems to provide fixed public communication services in the Sultanate of Oman, which include broadband Internet services, satellite connectivity services for communication stations, and provide multiple options for beneficiaries in rural areas. Speaking to the Observer, Mahmood Omar al Zadjali, acting executive manager, Strategic Planning unit, Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA), said, "This is a Class 1 license building telecom infrastructure (networks) and providing services. This license is similar to one provided to Omantel, Ooredoo, Vodafone, Awasar, and Starlink recently." Among other types of licenses that are usually issued, Class 2 is provided to companies that do not build their networks, but provide telecom services based on resale. For example, companies such as Friendi, Renna, and others. "They are licensed service providers, but they don't build the network." Mahmood Omar al Zadjali, acting executive manager, Strategic Planning unit, Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) The Class 3 licence is issued through a decision of the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) to provide private network owners or service providers who meet the qualifying criteria for unlimited entry to the market. The licence duration will not exceed five years. On OmanSat, Al Zadjali said, "It is not a new company, but a government enterprise that was established in 2018 to spearhead the national satellite program initiative by building satellite communications infrastructure and developing required capabilities to serve public and private sectors, coping with their immediate to long-term telecommunications needs. They did not have a license before it was under the Oman Broadband Company, but now they have their separate license, and they can provide the satellite services, which include that they have the satellite or lease the satellite bandwidth and resell to other companies." He added, "The significance of this particular is that satellite services are important because they can reach faraway and inaccessible remote places, which is costly and sometimes impossible with the traditional infrastructure for terrestrial or fixed network." In the event of an outage in the fixed service network, services based on satellite can step in during an emergency as a solution for the other players. "Apart from competition, the most important aspect is providing services to remote villages of the Sultanate of Oman. "Satellite services are the latest trend because they offer better quality and high speed to the end-users." Al Zadjali said that it is now up to the company or the operator (OmanSat) to announce the launch of products, including various services and packages. With regards to the pricing, he said, "The matter is totally up to the new operator, and because this is a new company is not a dominant player in the market, they have flexibility in providing their own set of prices and tariffs." On comparison with Starlink, Al Zadjali said that Starlink has its satellites, while the new company does not own any, but has agreements with satellites to lease the bandwidth from them. That is the difference. But in the future, it may have its own satellite and provide the services based on that infrastructure."
Observer
02-03-2025
- Health
- Observer
CYCLING BOOM
Daily lifestyles shift significantly during the holy month of Ramadhan as people seek activities that blend health benefits with spiritual ambiance. Among the sports gaining remarkable popularity is cycling, which has become a top choice for individuals and groups alike, whether for exercise or to enjoy the unique atmosphere of the month. With this growing interest, markets have witnessed a significant rise in bicycle prices due to soaring demand from both individuals and sports groups. Retailers report that many popular models, especially those preferred for nighttime rides or fitness purposes, have completely sold out. This price surge is driven by high demand and limited supply. However, cycling enthusiasts continue to find alternatives by opting for second-hand bicycles or renting from stores offering such services. Dr Reem al Zaabi highlights that cycling is a low-impact exercise, making it suitable for people of all ages. It enhances cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles and improves endurance. Discussing its impact during Ramadhan, Dr Al Zaabi explains that cycling is an ideal activity for fasting individuals when done at appropriate times, as it stimulates blood circulation without causing excessive fatigue. She recommends cycling an hour before Iftar or after Taraweeh prayers, as the body is more prepared for physical activity at these times. She also stresses the importance of following health guidelines while cycling during fasting. Staying hydrated by drinking sufficient water between Iftar and Suhoor is essential to avoid dehydration and exhaustion. Additionally, consuming balanced meals rich in carbohydrates and proteins helps sustain energy levels and replenish lost nutrients, ensuring better physical performance. Zakaria al Zadjali, a dedicated cycling enthusiast, describes it as one of the most beneficial sports for overall health. He emphasises its role in improving heart health and lung capacity. He notes that cycling while fasting does not pose a risk if done before Iftar and limited to an hour to prevent dehydration and exhaustion. Al Zadjali also observes a noticeable increase in cycling activity during Ramadhan, with many children using bicycles for recreation. While he acknowledges its health benefits, he urges parents to monitor their children's cycling habits and ensure adherence to safety measures. 'Cycling while fasting is perfectly safe if done before Iftar and for a limited duration. It enhances endurance and heart health without excessive fatigue,' says Al Zadjali. He highlights the necessity of wearing helmets and equipping bicycles with lights, particularly since many children prefer evening rides. Proper lighting improves visibility and reduces accident risks. He further calls for stricter monitoring by relevant authorities to promote awareness and prevent violations, ensuring a safer environment for cycling enthusiasts. As cycling continues to gain momentum during Ramadhan, it remains more than just a fitness trend - it reflects a lifestyle choice that blends health, spirituality and community engagement.
Times of Oman
26-01-2025
- Automotive
- Times of Oman
Abdullah Al Zubair brings smiles on the faces of Oman rally fans
MUSCAT: Local rally driver Abdullah Al Zubair earned the coveted MERC2 title along with his co-driver Taha Al Zadjali at the 28th Oman International Rally, the first round of the FIA Middle East Rally Championship (MERC), which concluded in Sohar on Saturday. Driving a Subaru Impreza, the Al Zubair and Al Zadjali did the host nation proud with overall sixth place and top honours in the MERC2 category. Qatar's Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah and his new Spanish co-driver Candido Carrera cruised to the overall title win in 6min 13.6sec victory. The Qatari secured a record-breaking eighth win in the Sultanate in his Škoda Fabia RS and a staggering 87th career victory in the FIA Middle East Rally Championship (MERC) with a seventh different co-driver. He won nine of the 13 special stages, including the Power Stage finale. Al Zubair's return to competitive rallying was marked by his determination to excel in the N category. Prior to the rally, he emphasised the challenges posed by the new stages in Sohar, noting that success would require "effort, patience, caution, and experience." He also expressed gratitude to his sponsor, Ara Petroleum Company, highlighting the importance of corporate support in the demanding sport of rallying. Al Zubair's extensive rally experience includes participation in the Middle East Rally Championship, the Jordan National Rally Championship, the World Desert Rally Championship, and various Baja events across Europe. The experience stood out handy as he claimed MERC2 success while navigating the demanding routes in Sohar. Rakan Al Rashed returned to the series in impressive style by taking second overall with Portugal's Hugo Magalhães in a Toyota GR Yaris Rally 2. The Saudi overcame a couple of flat tyres on Friday's opening stage and measured his pace well once Abdulaziz Al Kuwari had blotted his copybook on the last stage of the first day. Qatar's Nasser Khalifa Al Attiyah and his Lebanese co-driver Ziad Chehab went largely under the radar to deliver a polished performance to snatch the final place on the podium in their Ford Fiesta. Defending regional champion Abdulaziz Al Kuwari overcame a seventh stage accident and the resultant 10-minute penalty to retain third at the start of the final day in his QMMF-backed Citroën C3. But the luckless Qatari ground to a halt with suspension issues on the penultimate stage. Irishman Lorcan Moore performed well on the pace notes. Al Kuwari's cruel demise lifted Rashid Al Muhannadi and Gary Mcelhinney into fourth place in the new Peugeot 208 Rally 4. They suffered late drama of their own when the car got stuck in the regrouping zone before the final stage and an attempt to pull it clear resulted in extensive damage to the front end. Jordan's Shadi Shaban and Samer Issa secured a fine fifth place in their Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX followed by the Subaru Impreza crew of Al Zubair and Al Zadjali. Saudi Arabia's Ibrahim Al-Muhanna (Can-Am) finished seventh and last year's winner and Oman's Abdullah Al Rawahi and Ata Al Hmoud benefited from four fastest times to lift themselves into an unlikely eighth in the second Autotek Škoda after a cruel retirement on the first stage on Friday morning. Shadi El-Fakih (Renault), Yosra Jazzar (Can-Am) and Zakariya Al Aamri (Subaru) rounded off the FIA finishers in ninth, 10th and 11th positions after India's Saneem Payyakkal and Musa Sherif stopped in the penultimate stage. Zakariya Al Aufi claimed victory in the Oman National Championship event with his co-driver Mutasim Al Balushi. On the final day, a total of 15 crews graced the start list for the final leg of six special stages with both Al Rawahi and Al Kuwari returning to the fray and chasing as many points as possible. Only Mohamed Mansoor Parol's Subaru Impreza was missing from the list. All five crews competed in the Oman National Rally made the restart. Salim Al Tauqi and his navigator Issa Al Wardi in their Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VII came second while the duo of Haitham Al Zadjali and Wail Al Shaibani, also in Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VII, rounded the podium.
