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Observer
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Observer
OFS showcases Oman's treasures at Expo 2025 Osaka
The Omani Film Society, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, hosted a film screening as part of the activities celebrating Cultural Diversity Day at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan. The OFS showcased the Oman's treasures on Omani Cultural Diversity Day. Expo 2025 is a World Expo taking place in Osaka from April 13 to October 13, 2025, organised and sanctioned by the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE). Oman's film screening was conducted in three languages: Arabic, English and Japanese, enhancing communication with international audiences. Oman's participation at Expo 2025 aimed to strengthen its position as a global filming destination. Anwar bin Khamis al Ruzaiqi, Vice-Chairman of the Omani Film Society, introduced the "Make Your Film in Oman" project, promoting Oman's picturesque locations as ideal settings for film-making. The screening included a promotional film showcasing international locations used in Hollywood and Bollywood films, highlighting their counterparts in Oman with its unique geographical diversity, including golden sand dunes, green valleys, towering mountains and pristine coastlines. The screening also discussed Oman's rich historical and archaeological sites, from castles and forts to ancient cities and Unesco world heritage sites, emphasising their cultural value, which enriches film productions. "We are proud to present Oman's cultural and cinematic treasures on a global stage, showcasing Oman's exceptional locations and rich heritage. Our participation at Expo Osaka reflects the Omani Film Society's commitment to strengthening Oman's position as an international film-making and cultural exchange destination," said Mohammed bin Abdullah al Ajmi, President of the Omani Film Society. "We believe that cinema is a powerful bridge connecting cultures and sharing the story of our people and land with the world. Through initiatives like this, we promote film tourism and creative industries in Oman while empowering young film-makers to share their unique stories and talents globally. We thank all partners and collaborators for contributing to the success of this participation and look forward to further cooperation to advance the Omani film sector," he added. During the event, five short documentaries directed by young Omani film-makers were screened, reflecting the diversity of environments, cultures and human stories in Oman. They include 'Al Mawarid' by Mohammed al Ajmi, exploring the Omani Tabseel season as a vibrant cultural and social event, 'You Will Never Dive Alone' by Fahad al Maimani, taking viewers on a visual journey into the depths of the Daymaniyat Islands, highlighting the richness of Omani marine life and the importance of conservation, 'Holding Your Breath,' directed by Issa al Subhi, telling the moving story of Omani diver Omar al Ghailani, showcasing free diving, perseverance and defiance, 'Trace,' directed by Buthaina al Kindi, an emotional journey through memory and nostalgia, reliving features of an ancient Omani village, focusing on belonging and identity and 'Long Distances,' directed by Hamad al Qasabi and Ali al Bimani, narrating the story of an Omani runner finding liberation and connection with his homeland. The participation also featured the Screen Oman platform, targeting production companies, directors and individuals interested in film-making, advertising and marketing. It promotes the diverse locations and terrain of Oman, open studios for filming, and film tourism.
Muscat Daily
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Muscat Daily
Muscat book fair highlights role of arts in national identity
Muscat – Oman's cultural aspirations took centre stage at the 29th Muscat International Book Fair where two panel discussions focused on enhancing Oman's theatrical and cinematic arts. The Directorate General of Arts hosted a panel discussion titled 'The Role of Theatre in Building Cultural Awareness' on Sunday exploring how Omani youth are working to develop the national theatre movement. Speakers highlighted the status of youth theatre groups, prospects for specialised education, and the role of cultural institutions in promoting wider public participation. Ahmed bin Dhahi al Shibli, playwright and director, said theatre has played a role in enhancing cultural awareness. He elaborated on its contribution to reinforcing national identity and facilitating creative knowledge-sharing. Playwright Omran bin Saleh al Rahbi described theatre as an intellectual platform that addresses societal issues 'with honesty and objectivity'. He emphasised the need for inclusive theatre that welcomes people with disabilities. Writer and playwright Osama bin Zayed al Shaqsi called for a strong literary foundation for theatre, stating, 'Reading and writing are the backbone of theatrical thought.' He added that powerful texts enrich life experiences and deepen cultural understanding. The discussion concluded with a call to tap into regional and international experiences to develop the national theatre scene in alignment with the broader goals of Oman Vision 2040. On Saturday, Oman Film Society organised a dialogue titled 'Transforming Omani Novels into Films' at Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre. The session examined the potential of Omani literature for film, the challenges of adaptation and the need for collaboration among writers, directors and screenwriters. Anwar bin Khamis al Ruzaiqi, Vice-Chairman of Oman Film Society, said the detailed portrayal of environment and characters in Omani novels offer rich material for filmmakers. 'Oman's cultural and historical diversity significantly contributes to the success of our film industry,' he said. He noted the growing international recognition of Omani short films and the rising profile of feature and documentary productions. On the narrative structure for cinema, playwright and author Noureddine bin Moosa al Hashimi said, 'Omani stories have both cultural and economic value and offer meaningful ways to address social issues.' Oman Film Society continues its efforts to promote Omani culture and heritage through cinema, contributing to narratives that resonate locally and internationally, while supporting the country's cultural tourism initiatives. Both sessions formed part of the wider efforts of Muscat book fair to promote the arts in line with Oman Vision 2040 objectives of preserving cultural identity and fostering sustainable community engagement. Anwar bin Khamis al Ruzaiqi, Vice-Chairman of Oman Film Society
