Latest news with #OCEC
Zawya
26-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman: Eco-friendly practices at OCEC boost visitor experience
MUSCAT: The Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC) is recognised for its sustainable operations and world-class facilities as research findings provide evidence that the centre's sustainable event management practices create a positive link to increased visitor satisfaction. Sustainability is gaining popularity in the tourism, hospitality and event management sectors due to socioeconomic and environmental concerns. Convention and exposition facilities like the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre play a crucial role in generating income and satisfying visitors. By implementing sustainable practices such as waste management, energy efficiency and eco-friendly design, they help address environmental issues; and attract customers and tourists with their eco-friendly operations. Research investigating the impact of sustainability integration at convention and exhibition centres on visitor satisfaction and strategic decision-making has shown that the use of sustainable materials improves sustainability prospects by contributing to the design of green buildings. The Oman Centre has also actively engaged with communities by forming relationships with local organisations, promoting recycling programmes and installing over 8,000 solar panels for energy efficiency, which significantly impacts guest satisfaction. Survey results indicate that 76 per cent of participants are aware of the sustainable practices at the facility, with factors like sustainability influencing event attendance and recommendations from respondents. Strategic landscape techniques and a 4.6-megawatt rooftop solar power system have contributed to water conservation, while energy-saving measures have had the most significant impact on visitor experience. While some tourists suggest a no-plastic zone, the installation of electric vehicle charging stations and other energy-saving measures have made a significant impact. Overall, the Centre's sustainable practices have enhanced guest experiences and made Oman a more appealing destination. The study suggests potential improvements such as installing intelligent power management systems and digital documentation systems to reduce paper usage. The OCEC, along with other events, sets leadership standards that position Oman as an innovation leader in sustainable development and tourism practices. The research emphasises that sustainable choices lead to memorable experiences and lasting impacts, as global environmental responsibility continues to grow. 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Muscat Daily
12-05-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Oman Petroleum & Energy Show and Oman Sustainability Week 2025
Oman's largest integrated sustainability and energy events begin at OCEC. Oman Net Zero centre launched. Majd Awards celebrated and energy efficiency award announced. In a move that reflects the Sultanate of Oman's commitment to sustainable development and transformation in the energy sector, the activities of the Oman Petroleum and Energy Show and Oman Sustainability Week for 2025 were officially launched on May 12, 2025, at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Center. The event is held under the supervision of the Ministry of Energy and Minerals and will continue until May 14, 2025. The opening ceremony was held under the patronage of H H Sayyid Taimur bin Asaad al Said, with the presence of several distinguished ministers, ambassadors, senior officials, and representatives from various concerned entities, highlighting the growing national interest towards a sustainable and balanced future. The event, organised by CONNECT (Oman Exhibitions Organizing Company) and hosted by Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), brings OSW and OPES together for the first time as an integrated platform, highlighting the importance of securing and sustaining energy while showcasing the Sultanate's commitment to achieving a balanced and progressive future. Establishing their co-location as an annual event moving forward, this edition represents the largest gathering of its kind ever hosted in the Sultanate. The expansive events fully occupy all halls of OCEC and extend across Muscat and other governorates through an extensive site visit program, amplifying its national and regional impact. Commenting on the significance of the events, His Excellency Eng. Salim bin Nasser al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals, stated: 'OPES and OSW 2025 are nationally significant events that underscore the Sultanate of Oman's ongoing commitment to advancing sustainable energy, and achieving a balance between innovation, economic growth, and environmental preservation. The Oman Petroleum and Energy Show 2025 reinforces the country's vision for a sustainable energy future by supporting efforts to reduce carbon emissions and achieve carbon neutrality. Oman Sustainability Week 2025 is closely aligned with Oman Vision 2040 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, playing a vital role in promoting the green circular economy and achieving the nation's ambition to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Together, these events serve as dynamic platforms for knowledge exchange, fostering innovation, and building strategic partnerships—driving national capacity development and enhancing economic resilience.' On this occasion, Eng. Mohammed bin Ali Al-Aghbari, Manager of External Affairs, Government Relations and Communications at Petroleum Development Oman, said: 'Our participation in OPES and OSW underscores PDO's strategic role in advancing the national transition toward clean energy and sustainable development. We are committed to showcasing the Company's leading initiatives in renewable energy, resource efficiency, and digital transformation, alongside our continued dedication to impactful social investment—reflecting our core values in empowering national talent. These events serve as a key platform to demonstrate our contributions and share our experience in shaping the future energy landscape of the Sultanate of Oman, in full alignment with PDO's journey of Transformation and the goals of Oman Vision 2040 and in support of maximizing in-country value across our operations.' His Excellency Dr. Thomas Oertle, Ambassador of Switzerland to Oman, shared his thoughts on the Swiss Embassy's participation in OSW 2025, stating: 'We are pleased to participate in OSW 2025 with a dedicated Swiss Pavilion, showcasing 17 leading Swiss companies offering cutting-edge sustainable solutions across cleantech, construction, energy, water, decarbonization, finance, and digitalization. A high-level Swiss delegation comprising representatives from government, business associations, export risk insurance, and academia further underscores our strong commitment to fostering collaboration and exchange between Oman and Switzerland – two like-minded nations. During OSW 2025, an innovative artwork by Swiss artists will also be unveiled, symbolizing our shared vision for a sustainable future.' Launching the Oman Net Zero Centre His Highness, the patron of the ceremony, also inaugurated the Oman Net Zero Centre, which operates under the Ministry of Energy and Minerals. The Centre focuses on several key areas, particularly the preparation and continuous updating of the national plan to achieve net-zero emissions. It also oversees the implementation of relevant projects and initiatives, offering support and consultation to institutions and stakeholders to help achieve national net-zero targets. In addition, the Centre is responsible for defining and updating Oman's national strategy to reach carbon neutrality by 2050. It provides technical guidance and support to both government bodies and private sector organizations on net-zero transition and energy efficiency. The Centre also monitors progress, promotes awareness, and builds capacity to ensure the effective implementation of related programs and initiatives. These efforts reflect a firm belief in addressing climate change and advancing clean, renewable energy solutions. The initiative aligns with the Sultanate of Oman's commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, and have also accelerated the development of the renewable energy sector, created supportive legal frameworks and policies, and introduced incentives to attract foreign investment, support local industries, and localize clean energy technologies. Commenting on their participation in OPES 2025, Salim Al Harthy, Chief Executive Officer of MB Petroleum Services, stated: 'Mohammed Al Barwani Petroleum Services is proud to participate in the 2025 OPES Exhibition, representing our expertise in drilling & workover, drilling fluids and showcasing our latest capabilities in e – line services. The event offers a valuable platform to highlight the strength of our operations, including a diverse range of European companies operating under the MBPS umbrella—many of which are making their presence known here in Oman.' The unified platform, consisting of distinguished and integrated themes, aims to enhance forward-looking dialogue on resource sustainability, environmental preservation, and progress in the energy sector. The theme of Oman Sustainability Week 2025 is 'Sustainable Growth – Balancing Progress and Preservation', while the theme for Oman Petroleum and Energy Show 2025 is 'Navigating the Energy Transition through Innovation in Oil and Gas'. This platform seeks to foster meaningful discussions and innovative solutions in these critical areas. Throughout the week, OPES and OSW 2025 will feature dynamic programs spanning exhibitions, strategic conferences, C-level roundtables, technical workshops, and site visits. By convening a global community of leaders, innovators, and policymakers, the event provides a powerful catalyst to accelerate Oman's progress toward economic growth and diversification, climate action, and technological advancement—reaffirming its alignment with Oman Vision 2040, the Net Zero Emissions target by 2050, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), and the Paris Climate Agreement. Beyond their core industry focus, OPES and OSW 2025 collectively serve as a powerful showcase of the Sultanate's achievements, reinforcing its position as a key player in the energy sector and a regional pioneer of sustainable progress. Anticipating a robust turnout of more than 30,000 visits from over 50 countries, with participation from more than 350 exhibiting companies and 2,400 delegates representing diverse global sectors, the events underscore Oman's growing prominence as a hub for international dialogue on energy and sustainability. This influx of international participants also generates significant economic value across peripheral sectors such as tourism, hospitality, and transportation, contributing meaningfully to the nation's broader diversification goals. Positioned as key pillars of knowledge exchange within the week's agenda, OSW Talks and OPES Talks—both running from 12 to 14 May—offer dynamic, free-to-attend CPD-accredited platforms that foster strategic dialogue and professional advancement. OSW Talks will deliver sessions focused on emerging sustainability practices, breakthrough innovations, and circular economy strategies—providing participants with actionable insights to navigate the evolving global sustainability landscape. Simultaneously, OPES Talks will convene global CEOs, senior government leaders, and energy pioneers for high-impact discussions on critical topics such as the energy transition, renewable integration, digitalization of operations, and the future of LNG in Oman—reinforcing OPES's role in cultivating a knowledge-driven, innovation-focused energy ecosystem. Anchoring the week's high-level strategic discourse, OSW and OPES will each feature exclusive C-Level Roundtables governed by Chatham House Rule and facilitated by Ernst & Young (EY), offering closed-door forums for leaders to engage in impactful, solution-driven dialogue. The week's agenda also features a series of flagship conferences and specialist platforms that deepen sectoral engagement and cross-industry collaboration. On the sustainability front, the International Sustainability Resources & Technology Conference (ISRTC)—a cornerstone of OSW 2025 organized by Oman Environmental Services Holding Company – be'ah and programmed by Economist Impact—takes place on 12–13 May, convening influential stakeholders to explore post-COP29 sustainability strategies, sustainable innovation, and economic diversification. In parallel, OPES 2025 hosts the SPE Conference at OPES, programmed by the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), from 12–14 May, offering a dedicated forum for in-depth technical discourse on enhanced recovery methods, digital transformation, carbon capture, and decarbonisation. Further amplifying the experiential dimension of the week, OSW 2025 spotlights the future of sustainable transportation through its dedicated Future Mobility platform, running from 12–14 May, showcasing next-generation electric and hydrogen vehicle solutions. Complementing this initiative, on-site electric vehicle (EV) test drives, delivered in collaboration with leading automotive partners, offer attendees a hands-on experience of clean mobility advancements—underscoring sustainable transport as a critical pillar of climate action. Meanwhile, His Excellency Mohsin bin Hamad Al Hadhrami, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Energy and Minerals, will sponsor the Majd Local Content Awards ceremony today. These awards aim to enhance the value of local content, focusing on three main pillars: local manufacturing, human capital development, and the implementation of integrated programs with both economic and social impacts. These pillars were carefully selected as they represent the essence of empowerment and the foundation for achieving effective national sustainability. His Excellency the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Energy and Minerals also announced the launch of a new award, the 'Oman Energy Efficiency Award,' aimed at encouraging innovative practices in rationalizing energy consumption and motivating institutions and companies to adopt solutions and technologies that enhance efficiency and reduce emissions. This award will serve as an important step toward further consolidating the concept of environmental sustainability across various production and service sectors. Extending the engagement beyond the exhibition floors, OPES and OSW have also integrated immersive site visit programs to provide participants with insights into Oman's energy and sustainability landscape. Prior to the official inauguration, OPES 2025 hosted a dedicated Field Trip to strategic energy sites, offering participants a deeper understanding of the region's oldest geological formations and their pivotal role in the development of hydrocarbon systems. Complementing this initiative, the SEG Workshop—organized by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists—explores the evolving role of geophysics in enhancing hydrocarbon production through advanced seismic techniques, integrated reservoir monitoring, and field development optimization. Concluding the week's activities, the OSW Site Visits program on 15 May will offer registered participants exclusive access to landmark sustainability projects across the Sultanate, providing real-world context to the themes explored during the week. Together, OPES and OSW 2025 drive a holistic agenda that catalyses Oman's transformative journey toward a resilient and sustainable future. By forging enduring partnerships and accelerating innovation, OPES and OSW 2025 continue to foster collaboration and inspire tangible action, solidifying the Sultanate's position as a regional pioneer and establishing a benchmark for excellence in energy and sustainability. For details on Oman Petroleum & Energy Show (OPES) 2025, visit: To learn more about OPES Talks, visit: For more information on Oman Sustainability Week (OSW) 2025, visit: To learn more about OSW Talks, visit:
Times of Oman
04-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Times of Oman
'Kiki Goes to Corniche' a tribute to Oman's landscape, Launched
Muscat: The beloved children's travelogue 'Kiki Goes to Corniche' was officially launched by Dr. Siham Al Harthy, board member of Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Chairperson of their Tourism Committee, at the 29th Muscat International Book Fair, being held at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC), in a celebration of storytelling, art, and cultural exploration. Crafted by Elizabeth Davis, a notable figure in Oman's art scene and a resident in Muscat since 1992, the book invites young readers to discover the charm of Oman through the eyes of Little Kiki, who journeys through the iconic Corniche with her grandmother, fondly known as Ammu. The book includes engaging pop-ups, activity-based cutouts, and delicately illustrated pages created with pen and watercolour, making it a vibrant, interactive experience for children and the young at heart. 'This book is not only a tribute to our landscapes, but also a joyful celebration of learning and exploration,' said Dr. Siham Al Harthy at the launch. 'It was truly a pleasure and an honour to be part of the launch of Kiki Goes to Corniche. Elizabeth's sketchbook is a beautiful celebration of culture and creativity, and I'm so pleased to see it gaining such wonderful recognition. Knowing that the original is housed at the special collection wing of Shiekh Mohammed Bin Rashid Library, Dubai makes it all the more special.' added Dr Siham. The book is proudly showcased by Al Bhaj Books, a respected local bookstore in Muscat, dedicated to promoting Omani literature and artistic voices. The event drew families, educators, and art lovers alike, all eager to explore Oman through the imaginative lens of young Kiara and the heartfelt storytelling of Elizabeth Davis. The book, was earlier displayed in the Oman pavilion at the ITB Berlin 2024 and also at the road show in the US by the OCCI tourism dept.
Observer
03-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
Muscat International book Fair comes to a close
The 29th Muscat International Book Fair, held at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC) from April 24, concluded on a high note with a heavy number of visitors. It moved away from last year's global focus on artificial intelligence to celebrate cultural diversity as a pathway to unity. The Book Fair, themed 'Cultural Diversity Enriches Our Civilisation', saw a significant turnout of nearly 300,000 visitors, including citizens and expatriates, recorded in the first 5 days of the fair, showing its great acceptability over the past few years. The fair hosted a number of publishing houses from the region, with 674 of them from 35 countries displaying 681,041 titles, including 467,413 Arabic books, 213,610 foreign books, and 27,464 Omani works over the past 10 days. It also featured around 52,205 new publications from 2024-2025, according to Shaikha al Mahruqi, Acting Director-General of International Media at the Ministry of Information. Muscat International book Fair comes to a close Muscat International book Fair comes to a close 'Through this Book Fair, we are conveying a vital message: embrace our differences and accept each other as we are. Last year, the topic of the Book Fair was AI, but this year, Oman is adopting a more practical approach and seeking to promote peace and unity through literature and cultural exchange,' Shaikha said. Books on literature, history and science captivated the attention of visitors and publishers at the Book Fair, which also featured 211 cultural programmes and 155 activities specifically tailored for children. Speaking to the Observer, Edmond Claude, a European visitor to the Fair, said that the two days he spent at the Fair were so useful that he was able to grab some English as well as Arabic titles before going home. 'I was able to buy some of the most sought-after titles from the fair in both English and Arabic. I have attended some of the best book fairs in the world, including the Sydney Book Fair and Sharjah Book Fair, and I find all three of them to be of little difference,' said Claude. Muscat International book Fair comes to a close Muscat International book Fair comes to a close Another visitor to the fair, said, 'Every one of us who came on a visit to Oman wanted to witness the developments, and the Muscat International Book Fair was the right occasion to do so. The children's section for educational and entertaining activities, which help enhance young visitors' intellectual abilities, was something to be highlighted and the fair was wonderful and crowded.' A cross-section of the visitors opined that the fair was 'highly diverse,' citing the presence of visitors from various nationalities. 'My visit was delightful, and I'll definitely come again,' Anita Rajan, a homemaker from Muscat, said.
Muscat Daily
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Muscat Daily
Muscat book fair blends talent, tech and tradition
Muscat – The 29th Muscat International Book Fair is proving to be more than a celebration of books, drawing large crowds with a mix of literature, heritage and emerging technologies. Hosting over 600 exhibitors from across the world, the fair runs daily from 10am to 10pm until May 3, offering a broad selection of titles in multiple languages and genres. AI draws young visitors A key attraction this year is 'Fatima', an AI-powered assistant launched by Ministry of Education. One of six similar agents, Fatima is designed to assist visitors with information and directions. 'Fatima is fast, friendly and helpful. She's especially useful for students trying to locate specific genres or publications,' said a ministry official. 'We've seen young visitors approach Fatima with excitement – it's sparking curiosity about both books and technology.' Bahrain-based writer Idris Meris Collectors seek second-hand treasures The second-hand books section is attracting bibliophiles in search of rare editions on culture and history. Despite higher prices, many titles are selling out quickly. 'These books carry the soul of the past. Collectors know their worth, and for many, it's not about price – it's about preserving knowledge,' said veteran Bahrain-based writer and bookseller Idris Meris, 75. Children's content boosted by Ayn Platform The fair also saw the launch of a new children's channel by the popular Ayn Platform, offering more than 8,000 multimedia resources. The platform now has over 65,000 audio and video recordings, including archival content from the 1970s. 'This launch is a milestone,' said Ahlam al Balushi from the Ministry of Information. 'It promotes reading and learning in an engaging, multimedia format for our children.' New voices from the region Emerging writers are also in the spotlight. Pakistani sisters Zunaira and Aysal Waheed have both made a mark at the fair. Muscat-based Aysal, 15, is the author of eight books available on Amazon. Zunaira, a student at University of Nottingham, is an author and motivational speaker. Their featured titles include The Balhaerian Prince, Through the Portal, Alejandra Plays Soccer and Nobody Told You This Before , showcasing a range of genres from fantasy to inspirational writing. Aysal Waheed Cultural and economic impact Fuad al Bulushi, Director of Sales at Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC), which hosts the fair, said the event plays a vital role in promoting knowledge and culture. 'Hosting Muscat International Book Fair is a great honour for OCEC, as it underscores the centre's pivotal role in promoting knowledge exchange and cultural engagement,' he said. 'The 2024 edition contributed over RO1mn to the local economy. In 2025, with 674 publishers from 35 countries, similar benefits are anticipated.' He added that with integrated hotels, modern exhibition halls and a professional events team, OCEC can accommodate the fair's high footfall – over 400,000 visitors in ten days – while positioning Oman as a hub for cultural dialogue in the region.
