Latest news with #MohammedalBalushi
Muscat Daily
05-05-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Global meet on museums, tourism on May 18 in Manah
Manah – Oman Across Ages Museum will host an international conference titled 'Museums and their Role in Tourism Development' in collaboration with National Records and Archives Authority and Ministry of Heritage and Tourism from May 18 to 20. The three-day event will bring together over 40 researchers, academics and museum experts from 21 countries, along with key stakeholders in the heritage and tourism sectors from within and outside the sultanate. The conference will feature 42 scientific papers covering a range of topics, including the role of museums and heritage institutions in boosting tourism and preserving cultural identity, the contribution of museum tourism to the cultural economy and investment opportunities in the sector. Presentations will explore the educational and academic potential of museums, with a focus on partnerships and integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality to enhance visitor experiences. Al Yaqzan bin Abdullah al Harthy, Director General of Oman Across Ages Museum In addition to the main sessions, the conference will include three specialised workshops and an exhibition showcasing the participation of government and private entities, alongside researchers and academics. The exhibition aims to highlight the economic and cultural significance of museums and their growing role in society and tourism development. Al Yaqzan bin Abdullah al Harthy, Director General of Oman Across Ages Museum and General Supervisor of the conference, said the event aims to serve as a global platform for the exchange of expertise and best practices in the field of museums. He emphasised the growing importance of Omani museums as knowledge hubs that contribute to diversifying the national economy through cultural tourism. Dr Mohammed al Balushi, Chairman of the conference's Scientific Committee, said it received more than 300 research abstracts from 21 countries, of which 42 were selected based on academic quality and diversity. He added that a number of scientific posters will also be displayed at the conference, offering further opportunities for knowledge exchange and showcasing innovative research in museum development and tourism.
Observer
01-04-2025
- General
- Observer
Eid is a celebration deeply rooted in family gatherings
Eid Al Fitr, marking the end of Ramadhan, is a significant celebration for Muslims around the world. It is not just a religious observance; it embodies the spirit of family gatherings and communal joy. The essence of Eid lies in its ability to bring families together, fostering bonds that are often strained by the fast pace of modern life. "Eid is about reconnecting with loved ones. Families come together to celebrate after a month of fasting and reflection during Ramadhan. The act of gathering with family members creates a sense of belonging and strengthens familial ties," said Saada al Numani, a resident of Muscat. The practice of giving Eidiyah, monetary gifts given to children from elders that is practiced during the first three days of Eid, further enriches these gatherings. "It symbolises love and generosity while creating cherished memories for younger generations," she added. Eid traditions vary across cultures but share common elements that emphasise family unity. "Our families gather for elaborate feasts featuring traditional foods that have been passed down through generations. These meals are not only about nourishment but also serve as an opportunity for storytelling and sharing memories, reinforcing family bonds," said Mohammed al Balushi from Suhar. For senior citizens, it remains essential to adapt Eid celebrations while preserving the core values that make Eid special, which are family unity and compassion towards others. "Finding ways to celebrate safely while still honouring traditions will ensure that future generations continue to experience the warmth and joy associated with Eid. Here, I mean we need to teach our children to value family bonds," said Amour al Tauqi, a father of four. "As we gather with our loved ones each year during this joyous occasion, we reaffirm our commitment to nurturing these relationships that are vital for our emotional well-being and cultural identity," he added. Family gatherings in Oman hold significant cultural, social and emotional importance, particularly during holiday seasons such as Eid and the winter months when the weather is mild and conducive to outdoor activities. These gatherings are not merely social events; they play a crucial role in reinforcing familial bonds and preserving cultural traditions. Family gatherings also function as essential social support networks within communities. In times of need — be it financial difficulties or health issues — families can rally around each other for assistance. "This communal support system is particularly important in Omani society where extended families often live close to one another. The act of gathering reinforces community ties and fosters a spirit of cooperation among individuals," said Maulid al Dhawi. Ultimately, Eid is more than just a festival; it is a celebration deeply rooted in family gatherings. It serves as a reminder of our shared values which are love, compassion and gratitude, while providing an opportunity to strengthen familial bonds through shared experiences.
Observer
02-03-2025
- Sport
- Observer
Renaissance Interschool Regatta showcases Oman's talent
MUSCAT: The Renaissance Interschool Regatta (RIR) 2025 produced excellent sailing, tense racing and offered a glimpse at Oman's future sailing stars as 45 schoolchildren took to the waters of Al Mouj Muscat in their Optimist dinghies. Brought together from 15 government schools in Muscat, Sur and Al Mussanah, and part of the Oman Sail Community Sailing Program, sponsored by Renaissance Services, the sailors all showed how impressive their progress has and how bright their futures could be. Mohammed al Balushi (Musab bin Al-Zubair Basic Education School, Al Mussanah) won the boy's event after a close battle with Ibrahim al Maskari (Durat Al-Ajyal Basic Education School, Muscat) who had to settle for second place. Timur al Amri (Durat Al-Ajyal Basic Education School, Muscat) finished third. In the girl's competition, Mariam al Hadhrami (Al-Safa Basic Education School, Mussanah) won the gold medal ahead of Mariam al Hashar (Sur Basic Education School, Sur) who finished second, with Jameela al Jalboobi (Sur Basic Education School, Sur) finishing third. Top three winners of School Category Sur Basic Education School ended the regatta as the best performing school. Sailors from the school edged Durat Al-Ajyal Basic Education School, Muscat, into second and the Al-Rawae Basic Education School, Muscat, took the bronze. Stephen R Thomas, CEO, Renaissance Services, said, 'The Renaissance Interschool Regatta is a great opportunity to showcase the benefits of the Community Sailing Program. We are pleased to support these young sailors through this programme, which not only teaches them how to sail but also imparts valuable lessons that go beyond the sport. It is encouraging to see so many young people taking an interest in sailing and contributing to Oman's rich maritime traditions.' The Renaissance Interschool Regatta Abdulaziz al Shidi, Oman Sail's Acting Director Sailing, added, 'The Interschool Regatta, sponsored by Renaissance Services, is one of the leading youth sports events in Oman, combining competition with a focus on enriching the community. Through sport, the sailors learn valuable lessons to take with them on and off the water, and starting with the Community Sailing Program, Oman Sail and Renaissance Services are delighted to create a platform to develop the abilities of young Omanis.' The Oman Sail Community Sailing Program, sponsored by Renaissance Services, has already introduced 301 boys and girls to the sport this year as part of an annual commitment to teach a total of 900 students aged 8-10 from government schools in Al Batinah South, Al Sharqiyah South and Muscat governorates each year. Each student takes part in a five-week sailing course with one weekly session on the water using the Optimist boat and participates in a beach clean-up to help keep the environment clean for Oman's native wildlife and marine species – as well as ensuring sailors of all ages and levels can enjoy clean seas.
Muscat Daily
10-02-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Oman strengthens maritime sector with new agreement
Muscat – The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Sindbad Overseas Company to enhance cooperation in developing the maritime sector in line with Oman Vision 2040. The agreement was signed by H E Khamis bin Mohammed al Shammakhi, Undersecretary for Transport at MTCIT, and Mohammed al Balushi, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Sindbad Overseas. The MoU aims to explore investment opportunities in Oman's shipping and maritime sectors, identify new business prospects in regional and international markets, and facilitate collaboration in areas such as marine leasing, shipping, investment, finance, and insurance. Additionally, the agreement seeks to strengthen trade relations, foster long-term partnerships among stakeholders, and leverage Sindbad Overseas' global expertise in the maritime industry. It also includes plans to develop ship registration under the Omani flag, organise specialised trade missions, and encourage knowledge exchange within the sector.
