Latest news with #CulturalCommittee


Observer
29-04-2025
- General
- Observer
Session explores role of cultural diversity
MUSCAT: The Cultural Committee of the Muscat International Book Fair organised a dialogue session titled "Cultural Diversity and Identity" as part of Fair's activities. The session highlighted Oman's cultural heritage and its role in solidifying national identity and fostering a sense of belonging. The discussion, led by Dr Nader Kazem (a writer and former professor of cultural studies at the University of Bahrain), examined the significance of cultural diversity as a fundamental element in shaping a unifying national identity, as well as strategies to preserve it amid rapid regional and global changes. Dr Kazem emphasised that multiculturalism and the coexistence of diverse identities within a single society require high levels of tolerance, acceptance, and respect for others — a theme that has persisted throughout history but gains new relevance in the context of modern nations. Dr Kazem noted that globalisation, emerging decades ago, has increased interconnectivity among societies, influencing local cultural distinctiveness and giving rise to standardized global cultural patterns in areas such as architecture, cuisine and fashion. The session spotlighted Oman's pioneering experience in cultural pluralism and peaceful coexistence, showcasing tangible examples from its cultural, artistic and literary heritage as key contributors to national identity. — ONA


Egypt Today
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Egypt Today
Ahmed Helmy Takes the Spotlight in Sweden as Malmö Festival Honors His Legacy
Ahmed Helmy. The 15th edition of the Malmö Arab Film Festival launches today, Tuesday, in the Swedish city of Malmö. The grand opening will begin with a red carpet ceremony at the prestigious Royal Cinema—one of Sweden's largest theaters—offering the public a chance to meet and celebrate with a host of Arab film stars and creators. The festival has become a cultural landmark and a proud part of Malmö's identity. The opening ceremony will be attended by Malmö's Deputy Mayor and Chairman of the Cultural Committee, Jan Grönholm, who will also present an honorary award to celebrated Egyptian actor Ahmed Helmy, alongside the festival's founder and director, Mohamed Keblawi. On Monday, ahead of the launch, many festival guests arrived in Malmö, including Ahmed Helmy, Mariam Shereef, Sabry Fawaz, director Karim El Shenawy, screenwriter Haitham Dabbour, and Khaled Abdel Galil. Tonight's program features the screening of the Palestinian film Ahlam 'Abera (Passing Dreams) by acclaimed director Rashid Masharawi. A co-production between Palestine, Sweden, Saudi Arabia, and France, the film follows 12-year-old Sami on a day-and-night journey with his uncle and cousin in search of his lost homing pigeon—a tale of hope, memory, and belonging.


Times of Oman
29-04-2025
- General
- Times of Oman
Role of cultural diversity in strengthening national identity
Muscat: The Cultural Committee of the Muscat International Book Fair organized a dialogue session titled "Cultural Diversity and Identity" as part of Fair's activities. The session highlighted Oman's cultural heritage and its role in solidifying national identity and fostering a sense of belonging. The discussion, led by Dr. Nader Kazem (a writer and former professor of cultural studies at the University of Bahrain), examined the significance of cultural diversity as a fundamental element in shaping a unifying national identity, as well as strategies to preserve it amid rapid regional and global changes. Dr. Kazem emphasized that multiculturalism and the coexistence of diverse identities within a single society require high levels of tolerance, acceptance, and respect for others—a theme that has persisted throughout history but gains new relevance in the context of modern nations. Dr. Kazem noted that globalization, emerging decades ago, has increased interconnectivity among societies, influencing local cultural distinctiveness and giving rise to standardized global cultural patterns in areas such as architecture, cuisine, and fashion. The session spotlighted Oman's pioneering experience in cultural pluralism and peaceful coexistence, showcasing tangible examples from its cultural, artistic, and literary heritage as key contributors to national identity. An open discussion followed, featuring academics, intellectuals, and cultural figures who explored the importance of cultural diversity in building a cohesive national identity and strategies to sustain it amid regional and global transformations. The session concluded with recommendations calling for continued efforts to preserve cultural heritage and promote initiatives that highlight Oman's authentic identity on the global stage.


Sharjah 24
13-04-2025
- Sport
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah Equestrian club wins Diba Al Hisn top prize
Prominent figures attend opening ceremony The event, held on Saturday evening at the club's headquarters, welcomed a number of prominent sporting and cultural figures. Among them were Abdullah Mohammed Mleih, Member of the Sharjah Sports Council; Mohammed Ahmed Al Mutawa, Chairman of Diba Al Hisn Sports and Cultural Club; Mohammed Abdullah Rashid Al Tarban Al Hammoudi, Chairman of Diba Al Hisn Football Club; and Mohammed Ali Al Dhuhouri, Head of the Community Culture Committee. The ceremony commenced with the national anthem of the United Arab Emirates, followed by a recitation from the Holy Qur'an. The competition was then officially launched, quickly turning into a platform for purposeful and spirited rivalry among the participating teams. Sharjah team takes the lead The Sharjah Equestrian and Racing Club team performed outstandingly throughout the competition, securing first place and earning the championship trophy along with a well-deserved cash prize. Diba Al Hisn Sports and Cultural Club claimed second place, followed by Sharjah Cultural Chess Club in third, and Al Hamriyah Club in fourth. The lively and engaging presentation of the competition's segments added to the event's success. This was credited to the efforts of Ahmed Abdullah Al Naqbi, Head of Strategic Planning and Institutional Excellence and Deputy Head of the Cultural Committee, and Mohammed Rashid Rashoud, member of the Cultural Committee. Their polished delivery and dynamic style captured the attention of the audience and contributed to an atmosphere full of excitement and cultural engagement. A key pillar of the club's annual agenda In his remarks during the event, Dr Mohammed Ahmed Al Matoua affirmed that the cultural competition has become a vital part of the club's annual programming. He noted that its purpose is to promote general knowledge, sharpen intellectual skills, and uncover emerging talents within the community. He expressed pride in the high level displayed by the participating teams and reaffirmed the club's commitment to supporting such cultural initiatives, which serve society and instill enduring values in the hearts of future generations. Participants praise the experience Participants expressed their delight in taking part in the competition, praising the meticulous organisation and variety of topics and segments that enriched the overall experience. They said the event offered a real opportunity for self-discovery and the development of cultural abilities. Many voiced their hope that the competition would continue annually, serving as a consistent platform for nurturing talent and encouraging positive competition within the Diba Al Hisn community.


Sharjah 24
05-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
195 participants compete in Al Dhaid Ramadan Quran competition
Intense qualifying rounds The qualifying stage commenced yesterday at the club's headquarters, attended by Salem Mohammed bin Huwaiden Al Ketbi, Chairman of Al Dhaid Club, Khalifa Mubarak Dalmouk Al Ketbi, Head of the Cultural Committee, and Mehir Obaid Al Khayyal Al Teneiji, the club's Executive Director. Participants competed across various categories, ranging from one to twenty Juz' (chapter). Strong partnerships for success Organised in collaboration with the Sharjah Noble Quran and Sunnah Establishment, the competition featured expert judging panels to ensure accuracy and fairness. This partnership was widely appreciated for enhancing the quality and credibility of the event. Recognising excellence Salem bin Huwaiden Al Ketbi highlighted the competition's role in strengthening Quranic values. The closing ceremony, set to take place during Ramadan, will honour outstanding participants and contributors who played a key role in its success.