Latest news with #BaitAlZubairMuseum
Observer
16-04-2025
- Observer
Shabab Oman II celebrates inclusion in UNESCO list
Muscat: The Royal Navy of Oman organized a media visit to the ship Shabab Oman at Port Sultan Qaboos after its program for peace and sustainable cultural dialogue was included in the UNESCO list. Shabab Oman II is embarking on its seventh international journey, carrying a message of peace and understanding among peoples, through visits to international ports and participation that embodies the Omani spirit of cultural dialogue. The ship is not just a cruise, but a platform that introduces the world to Oman's maritime history, authentic maritime arts, and sailing culture, through its distinguished presence at international events. The launch of the celebration of the inclusion of the Shabab Oman program for peace and sustainable cultural dialogue in UNESCO, and the opening of the Shabab Oman ship corner at Bait Al Zubair Museum, was held on Tuesday under the patronage of Dr. Abdullah bin Nasser Al Harrasi, Minister of Information. The launch of the celebration of the inclusion of the 'Shabab Oman' ship program for peace and sustainable cultural dialogue in UNESCO, and the opening of the 'Shabab Oman' ship corner in Bait Al Zubair Museum, under the patronage of His Excellency Dr. Abdullah bin Nasser Al Harrasi, Minister of Information.
Observer
14-04-2025
- Business
- Observer
Oman and Netherlands: Friends in diverse spectrum of areas
The relations between the Sultanate of Oman and the Netherlands are deep-rooted since time immemorial and are anchored in history, navigating towards the future over four centuries of Dutch-Omani history. Building on time-tested joint collaborations, the participation of Dutch companies specialised in water management and climate-resilient solutions made a substantial impact at the annual Water Week hosted by Oman last week, drawing considerable attention. 'The presence of Dutch companies underscored our countries' shared commitment to tackling today's most pressing global challenges in areas where both Oman and the Netherlands have long histories of innovation and stewardship,' said Stella Kloth, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the Sultanate of Oman. 'As a continuation of this dynamic exchange, I am proud to announce that during the week of April 28, the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, in collaboration with the Bait Al Zubair Museum, will host a Dutch Cultural Week in Muscat. This celebration of art, music and shared heritage will include several events open to the public,' she added. As the Dutch soil is all set to welcome His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, both nations are also commemorating a remarkable milestone in their shared history. Four centuries ago, Dutch merchant vessels made their historic entry into the Sea of Oman, marking the beginning of contact between both peoples. This early connection laid the foundation for the arrival of the Dutch East India Company's ship Concordia in 1651, which signalled the start of official trade relations between the two nations. Today, four centuries later, the spirit of those first encounters continues to thrive. What began as maritime trade has evolved into a multifaceted partnership grounded in a shared commitment to international cooperation. This relationship is not just about the past — it is very much alive in the present. This relationship continues to thrive, particularly in the field of sustainable logistics, water management and the energy transition. Stella further said that among these series of events is 'Food for Thought', a thought-provoking photography exhibition by renowned Dutch visual storyteller Kadir van Lohuizen, whose work explores themes of sustainability, climate change and global food systems. In addition, one of the highlighted events is the art competition 'The Emotion of the Oceans', organised in cooperation with the Green Life Art Center, which invites children up to 16 years old to express their creativity and raise awareness about ocean conservation through art. 'These musical collaborations reflect the spirit of exchange that has always defined Dutch-Omani relations — not only at the diplomatic level, but among our people.' From the bilateral relations point of view, the state visit is more than a historic moment. For the peoples of both countries, it is a powerful reminder of the opportunities that emerge when two nations cooperate and use dialogue as their compass. The state visit is the highest expression of bilateral relations, and it reflects the deep mutual respect and shared commitment between the two nations. 'From trade and technology to art and culture, our partnership is as vibrant today as it was in the 17th century. As we honour our shared past and look ahead to a sustainable, innovative future, I warmly invite all in Oman to join us during the Dutch Cultural Week (April 28 – May 1) to experience firsthand the creativity, collaboration and connection that continue to define our friendship. Together, Oman and the Netherlands are charting forward — anchored in history, driven by innovation and united by a shared vision for peace and stability,' Stella added.
Muscat Daily
26-03-2025
- Muscat Daily
5 must-see places in Muscat for every tourist
On a quick trip to the capital, these are five must-see places which every tourist/visitor must visit Do you have guests dropping in for a brief holiday in Muscat and you haven't made any plans to take them around? Rest assured, with timed visits to the following 5 destinations in the capital, you can, indeed, give them a fair idea about what makes Muscat the most endearing city in the Arabian Gulf. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque A visit to Muscat may not be complete without a visit to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque at Azaiba which covers a massive area of 416,000sqm – the largest and most beautiful mosque in the sultanate. With a capacity to accommodate 20,000 worshipers at a time in the prayer halls, corridors and courtyard, this mosque has one of the biggest chandeliers in Oman, measuring 14 metres high and weighing 8,500kg with a 24-carat gold-plated frame embellished with 600,000 Swarovski crystals and 1,122 bulbs, besides a hand-loomed Persian carpet covering the main prayer hall, also among the largest in the world. The official opening hours of Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque are from 4am to 9.30pm but non-Muslims are only allowed to visit between 8-11am everyday, except Fridays. Outside of the visiting hours, one is allowed to take photographs of the exterior of the building. Make sure to don modest attire – no shorts/sleeveless shirts for men and full-length, full-sleeved dresses/pants and scarves for women. Muttrah Corniche-Sidab This is the key tourist haven in the capital and one can spend at least hald a day here. The main attraction is the seafront and the Old Muttrah Souq where one can buy traditional trinkets and souvenirs, besides perfumes and frankincense. The ancient Muttrah Fort along the seafront is open to public and offers one of the best panoramic views of the ocean and adjacent landscape. Along this stretch one can also visit the Gate Museum, Bait Al Zubair Museum and Bait Muzna gallery which offer fabulous insights into the cultural heritage of Oman. From here, one can drive part Marina Bandhar al Rowdha, where private boats are docked, continue your drive till Al Bustan/Qantab and Barr al Jissah Resort and Spa for a stupendous view of stony mountains with the sea playing into the lap of various commercial properties – if you haven't been driven past this stretch, you have not really seen Muscat. Qurm Natural Park/Shatti Qurm Qurm is known for the city's green lung – Qurm Natural Park – the largest park in Muscat with an attractive lake and an open air theatre. The City Amphitheatre is also located at one end of the park, besides Marahland, a mini amusement park, at the other. Qurm also houses the iconic Mercedes showroom, many old shopping arcades like Sabco Centre, Al Araimi Complex, Qurm Commercial Complex, a string of popular restaurants for diverse cuisines, and a bowling alley on the way to Shatti Qurm, the most popular beach in town. Jawaharat al Shatti, a popular shopping arcade with many esteemed dining outlets, as well as the InterContinental Muscat hotel and Crowne Plaza hotel are located adjacent to the beach. A visit to the park and beach provides a fulfilling experience of serenity and bliss, away from the hullabaloo of the city. Shopping around Bousher What's a visit to Muscat without a little shopping for varied stuff at international branded outlets housed in the various malls located around Bousher district. One can visit Oman Avenues Mall (which has a new wing with the IKEA showroom), Muscat Grand Mall, Panorama Mall as well as Mall of Oman a little ahead which houses the newly opened Snow Oman – the largest snow park in the region on level three. (Timings: Sun-Thu – 10am to 10pm and Fri-Sat – 10am to 12am) Other malls include the Mall of Muscat which has the Oman Aquarium which is open Saturday to Wednesday from 10am to 10pm and 10am o 12am on Thursday-Friday. They also have a Weekend Dive Show on Friday-Saturday at Ocean Tank Gallery at 12 noon, 4pm and 8pm. Al Alam Palace/National Museum of Oman Your trip would be incomplete without visiting the jewel of Muscat – the majestic Al Alam Palace in Old Muscat. Though entry inside the palace is not allowed, visitors enjoy taking photographs outside the wrought iron gates in the sprawling courtyard lined with flower beds and marble tiled floors. A photo taken up and close outside the palace is treasured by most visitors. Inside the National Museum of Oman Opposite the palace is the National Museum of Oman – Oman's flagship cultural institution, showcasing the Sultanate's cultural heritage from the earliest evidence of human settlement in the Oman Peninsula through to the present day. The Museum houses more than 7,000 objects and offers 33 digital immersive experiences, state-of-the-art conservation facilities, a UHD cinema, and discovery areas for children. (Timing: Sat-Thu – 10am to 5pm; Fri – 2pm to 6pm)
