Latest news with #LayaliAlIrfan
Observer
11-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
Family Togetherness Takes Centre Stage at Layali Al Irfan
For many families during Ramadhan, the pursuit of wholesome entertainment has become essential, serving as a means to strengthen familial bonds and foster community connections. As the holy month unfolds, families seek spaces where they can enjoy free offerings suitable for all ages — encompassing children's games, food, bazaars and prizes that embody the joy of this blessed time. This spirit of togetherness shines brightly every night at the Layali Al Irfan Festival, an enchanting celebration held at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC). Launched by the Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran Group) in collaboration with Mangusteen Oman, a leading event management firm in the GCC, Layali Al Irfan Festival seeks to provide an all-encompassing Ramadhan experience. It serves as a welcoming oasis for families and friends to gather amid a backdrop of cultural activities, artistic performances and a vibrant marketplace showcasing local entrepreneurs. 'This festival highlights Omran's dedication to curating exceptional tourism experiences that captivate visitors while fostering initiatives that support local talent, entrepreneurs and SMEs,' remarked Antoine Aoun, Managing Partner of Mangusteen Oman. Running until March 29, the festival captures the authentic essence of Ramadhan by fostering an atmosphere rich in warmth, hospitality and community spirit. Rediscovering Ramadhan Nights: A Look Back Historically, Ramadhan nights in Oman have been cherished for family gatherings and communal festivities, often spent around the dining table sharing Iftar meals after a long day of fasting. Traditional forms of entertainment included storytelling, music and games that brought families together. Outdoor gatherings, especially in souks, were common where families enjoyed henna painting, shopping for new clothes and sampling local delicacies. Over the years, entertainment options have expanded significantly within the region. In the past, opportunities for families were limited to small-scale community events or private family gatherings. However, as Oman has evolved, so too has the nature of Ramadhan celebrations. The introduction of larger festivals and fairs has transformed these nights, making them vibrant communal experiences. Today, Layali Al Irfan reflects this evolution by blending traditional customs with modern entertainment, creating a festival atmosphere that resonates with both older generations and the youth. Performing arts reflecting Omani heritage, alongside a diverse range of food outlets serving local and international cuisine, bring an inclusive experience for all. As Aoun explains, 'Layali Al Irfan is an engaging experience that beautifully embodies Omani hospitality, blending cultural authenticity with a wide range of activities for families and friends.' The OCEC Boulevard Experience: Embracing Family Values Visiting the OCEC Boulevard during the festival offers a delightful experience, albeit with some traffic challenges, particularly on weekends. Throughout Ramadhan, Omran and the OCEC have transformed the venue from a conventional conference centre to a family-friendly destination, aiming to engage visitors beyond business events and concerts. Families can expect a treasure trove of activities designed with children in mind. Dedicated zones for kid-friendly games and engaging performances ensure that younger attendees have a chance to have their own fun while adults can appreciate the cultural displays and culinary offerings. A lively bazaar, alongside enticing prize draws, keeps the atmosphere dynamic and engaging. As the festival unfolds, it becomes clear that Layali Al Irfan is much more than a mere entertainment event; it is a statement about revitalising the spirit of Ramadhan. Antoine Aoun's vision is to blend tradition with modernity, creating an experience that resonates with a diverse audience. 'Our goal is to provide a meaningful Ramadhan experience where visitors can embrace the essence of the holy month while also creating a valuable platform for local entrepreneurs,' he stated. With 55 vendor spaces dedicated to local businesses, the festival not only supports entrepreneurship but also breathes life into Oman's economic landscape. By rotating vendors weekly, a wider range of products and services are brought to festival-goers, enriching their experience and supporting community growth. The Layali Al Irfan Festival, free of charge and open nightly from 8:00 PM to 12:00 AM, stands as a beacon of hope, generosity and joy during Ramadhan. It invites families to come together, fostering a vibrant sense of community and celebration that encapsulates the true spirit of this holy month.
Muscat Daily
09-03-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre becomes a Ramadan destination for Iftars
Muscat – The Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC) has established itself as the premier venue for corporate iftars in Oman, hosting some of the country's leading companies under its annual Layali Al Irfan campaign. This year, OCEC is expanding its offerings with public iftars in the stunning Exhibition Gardens, allowing visitors to break their fast outdoors, in a serene and green environment. In collaboration with the five-star JW Marriott hotel, OCEC continues to provide tailored indoor iftar experiences for companies in Oman in its Junior and Grand Ballrooms as well as exhibition halls. In the first two weeks of Ramadan only, the venue is already booked out by major organisations including Ahli Bank, OQEP, the Ministry of Awqaf & Religious Affairs, Towell Group, Muscat Private Hospital, Abraj Energy Services, and OMRAN Group for exclusive gatherings. With its one-stop-shop services, OCEC ensures seamless experience, managing every aspect of event planning from catering to décor. A highlight this year is the introduction of outdoor public iftars, a direct response to OCEC's growing popularity as a Ramadan hub, particularly during Eid shopping events. Hundreds of SMEs are set to exhibit at consumer shows like Dar Al Atta'a Exhibition (6–8 March) and Chic Expo (19–22 March), drawing large crowds to the venue. The public iftar, organised in partnership with Go Kiks, offers a serene dining experience with convenient access to the exhibition area. Visitors can enjoy a curated menu, blending traditional Ramadan dishes with contemporary flavours, all in a relaxed, simple, open-air setting. As part of its CSR efforts, OCEC has partnered with Dar Al Atta'a to provide vouchers for exhibition staff, ensuring they can break their fast without disrupting their work. A donation screen will also be placed in the public iftar tent to support charitable contributions, allowing guests to give back to the community during the holy month. Additionally, OCEC is also the host venue to the Layali Al Irfan Festival, organised by OMRAN Group from 4 to 30 March. The festival will feature over 50 local entrepreneurs showcasing their products, along with family-friendly entertainment, prize draws, a sports zone, interactive gaming sessions, and live performances, further enhancing the venue's role as a key Ramadan destination. Eng. Said Al Shanfari, CEO of OCEC, commented: 'This year, our team has gone above and beyond to create an inclusive Ramadan experience for both corporate and public guests. The versatility of our venue and the creativity of our staff continue to make OCEC the leading choice for impactful iftar events. We are proud to offer a setting that brings people together in the spirit of Ramadan, whether for business gatherings or community celebrations.' Public iftars will run until 22 March, with bookings required at Prices are 10 OMR per adult, 6 OMR for children aged 7–12, and free for children under 6. Corporates can book their iftars by contacting [email protected].
Times of Oman
06-03-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre becomes a Ramadan destination for Iftars
Muscat:The Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC) has established itself as the premier venue for corporate iftars in Oman, hosting some of the country's leading companies under its annual Layali Al Irfan campaign. This year, OCEC is expanding its offerings with public iftars in the stunning Exhibition Gardens, allowing visitors to break their fastoutdoors,in a serene and green environment. In collaboration with the five-star JW Marriott hotel, OCEC continues to provide tailored indoor iftar experiences for companies in Oman in its Junior and Grand Ballrooms as well as exhibition halls. In the first two weeks of Ramadan only, the venue is already booked out by major organisationsincluding Ahli Bank, OQEP, the Ministry of Awqaf & Religious Affairs, Towell Group, Muscat Private Hospital, Abraj Energy Services, and OMRAN Group for exclusive gatherings. With its one-stop-shop services, OCEC ensures seamless experience, managing every aspect of event planning from catering to décor. A highlight this year is the introduction of outdoor public iftars, a direct response to OCEC's growing popularity as a Ramadan hub, particularly during Eid shopping events. Hundreds of SMEs are set to exhibit at consumer shows like Dar Al Atta'a Exhibition (6–8 March) and Chic Expo (19–22 March), drawing large crowds to the venue. The public iftar, organised in partnership with Go Kiks, offers a serene dining experience with convenient access to the exhibition area. Visitors can enjoy a curated menu, blending traditional Ramadan dishes with contemporary flavours, all in a relaxed, simple, open-air setting. As part of its CSR efforts, OCEC has partnered with Dar Al Atta'a to provide vouchers for exhibition staff, ensuring they can break their fast without disrupting their work. A donation screen will also be placed in the public iftar tent to support charitable contributions, allowing guests to give back to the community during the holy month. Additionally, OCEC is also the host venue to the Layali Al Irfan Festival, organised by OMRAN Group from 4 to 30 March. The festival will feature over 50 local entrepreneurs showcasing their products, along with family-friendly entertainment, prize draws, a sports zone, interactive gaming sessions, and live performances, further enhancing the venue's role as a key Ramadan destination. Eng. Said Al Shanfari, CEO of OCEC, commented: 'This year, our team has gone above and beyond to create an inclusive Ramadan experience for both corporate and public guests. The versatility of our venue and the creativity of our staff continue to make OCEC the leading choice for impactful iftar events. We are proud to offer a setting that brings people together in the spirit of Ramadan, whether for business gatherings or community celebrations.' Public iftars will run until 22 March, with bookings required at Prices are 10 OMR per adult, 6 OMR for children aged 7–12, and free for children under 6. Corporates can book their iftars by contacting [email protected].
