Latest news with #OmanAcrossAgesMuseum
Observer
20-05-2025
- Business
- Observer
International conference on museum concludes with recommendations
MANAH, MAY 20 The International Conference on Museums concluded on Tuesday at the Oman Across Ages Museum under the auspices of Nasr bin Hamoud al Kindi, Secretary-General of the Royal Court Affairs and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Museum. In its final statement, the conference provided a series of key recommendations aimed at reinforcing the integrated management of cultural heritage that includes advancing digital documentation, oral storytelling, and institutional partnerships to solidify the role of museums as living memory hubs and sustainable drivers of cultural and tourism development. Dr Mohammed bin Ali al Balushi, Head of the Scientific Committee, delivered the closing statement emphasising the importance of developing multilingual and multimedia museum programmes to enhance visitor experience, expanding participation in both national and international cultural tourism routes, and integrating museums into tourism strategies through innovative models such as archaeological site museums and intangible heritage museums. These approaches aim to safeguard cultural diversity and stimulate local economies. The conference recommended anchoring museums within urban and tourism planning frameworks as creative, interactive centres capable of supporting local economic activity. It also called for leveraging cultural entrepreneurship and digital transformation to create smart museum models that generate sustainable income, support economic diversification and encourage participatory governance and stronger public and private community partnerships. In the cultural and educational sphere, the conference highlighted the need to repurpose museums as interactive learning spaces that promote cultural citizenship and link cultural diversity with local curricula and educational programmes. Institutional partnerships with educational and professional bodies were also encouraged to build specialised capacities and produce high quality cultural content that links learning with tourism. Regarding digital technologies, the conference urged museums to adopt integrated digital strategies based on artificial intelligence and modern tools to deepen visitor engagement and expand cultural and tourism impact. Museums were encouraged to transform historical figures into digital icons that connect memory with innovation and speak to global digital-native audiences.
Times of Oman
20-05-2025
- Times of Oman
Museums tourism development conference recommends enhancing integrated management of cultural heritage
Manah: The International Conference 'Museums and Their Role in Tourism Development" concluded its deliberations on Tuesday in the Wilayat of Manah, A'Dakhiliyah Governorate, under the patronage of Nasr Hamoud Al Kindi, Secretary General of the Royal Court Affairs and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Oman Across Ages Museum. Regarding museum and heritage institutions, the conference recommended enhancing the integrated management of cultural heritage through digital documentation, oral narratives, and institutional partnerships. This aims to establish museums as living memories and drivers of sustainable tourism and cultural development. It also called for activating multilingual and multimedia museum programmes to enrich visitor experiences, expanding participation in national and international tourism routes linked to cultural identity, and integrating museums into tourism policies through models such as archaeological and heritage site museums and intangible museums. These efforts would bolster the community economy and preserve local cultural diversity. In a statement delivered by Dr. Mohammed Ali Al Balushi, Chairman of the Scientific Committee, concerning museum economy and tourism, the conference emphasised consolidating the role of museums in urban and tourism planning as interactive creative hubs capable of stimulating local economies and creating educational and experiential tourism pathways. It also recommended leveraging cultural entrepreneurship and digital transformation to develop smart museum models that generate sustainable income, support economic diversification within the cultural economy, and enhance participatory governance models and partnerships with the private sector and communities to improve museum investment efficiency and expand its tourism and social impact within the sustainable development agenda. As for the cultural and educational role of museums, the conference recommended repurposing museums as interactive educational spaces that promote cultural citizenship and integrate multiculturalism into educational programmes and local curricula within a comprehensive societal vision. It also advocated supporting mobile, scientific, and literary museums as alternative models to bridge learning gaps, connect visitors with knowledge and tourism experiences in marginalised environments and multicultural communities, and develop institutional partnerships between museums, educational institutions, and professional bodies to build technical capacities and produce quality cultural content that fosters integration between education and tourism. As far as digital technologies in museum exhibitions and their tourism role are concerned, the conference recommended adopting integrated digital strategies based on artificial intelligence and other modern technologies to deepen visitor experiences and amplify the cultural and tourism impact of museum content. It also called for using non-invasive analysis and documentation tools, such as multispectral imaging and digital modeling, to preserve collections and enhance museums' research and educational appeal. Additionally, it emphasised integrating interactive digital storytelling into museum marketing, transforming historical figures into digital symbols that bridge memory and innovation while engaging the global digital-native audience. Dr. Mohammed Ismail Al Nasrat, in his address on behalf of participants, highlighted Oman's ancient history spanning thousands of years and its vibrant cultural treasures embodied in every museum, fort, and city. He noted that these institutions have proven not only to be guardians of memory but also key players in shaping the future of cultural tourism in the region and the world. He emphasised Oman's profound commitment to heritage and its relentless efforts to link heritage with development, serving as a model for transforming culture into an economic, social, and humanitarian asset. The conference's third theme, 'The Cultural and Educational Role of Museums," featured several working papers discussing the educational and interactive experiences of contemporary museums. Meanwhile, the fourth theme, 'Digital Technologies in Museum Exhibitions and Their Role in Tourism," explored digital imaging, interactive guidance in museums, and artificial intelligence innovations. Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO of Omran Group and the keynote speaker on the final day of the conference, delivered a lecture titled 'Museums as Strategic Drivers of Tourism Growth." He highlighted museums as one of the most important attractions for cultural and knowledge-seeking tourists, their role in boosting the tourism sector, and their connection to economic, social, and cultural development. He underscored their importance in attracting culturally oriented tourists, supporting local economies, and strengthening national identity, as well as their contribution to sustainable tourism development and the diversification of tourism products and experiences. He also examined their role in reshaping cities as prime destinations, extending visitor stays, and stimulating year-round tourism spending.
Observer
19-05-2025
- Science
- Observer
International museum conference highlights scientific sessions
MANAH, MAY 19 The second day of the International Museum Conference at the Oman Across Ages Museum in the Wilayat of Manah on Monday brought forward a series of enriching and varied scientific sessions, delving the roles of museums in areas such as economics, tourism, culture and education. The day included an insightful lecture on 'Museum Communication in the Contemporary Digital Environment: Global Trends and Future Scenarios", delivered by Prof Dr Abdullah bin Khamis al Kindi, a member of the State Council and head of the Department of Media at Sultan Qaboos University. His talk offered a fresh perspective on the way digital platforms and media have transformed museum communication. He emphasised that the Internet and social media have reshaped how museums interact with their audiences, urging that museums now have to navigate a vast ocean of data to connect with a younger, more digitally fluent generation. He stressed the need for Oman to harness these changes to enhance its museum ecosystem, ensuring that future generations are engaged through interactivity, inclusivity and sustainability. Prof Islam Elsayed Hussein Elsayed from Fayoum University, Egypt, talked about event role of museums in achieving sustainable tourism development in light of Egypt's Vision 2030, applied to Greater Cairo Museums, while Dr Ahmed Younis Abdel-Gawad, Lecturer, Department of Geography and GIS, Faculty of Arts, Fayoum University, talked about the spatial transformation of museums and their economic contributions, with a particular focus on Egypt's National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation. Dr Asma Boukhaoua and Dr Zerouati Mouahib, Setif 1 University-Ferhat ABBAS, Algeria, provided insights into the role of virtual engagement, particularly looking at Algeria's progress from 2015 to 2024, while Hassina Belouadah, Mohamed Boudiaf University M'Sila, Algeria, highlighted how digital innovation could align Omani museums with Oman Vision 2040, proposing that museums become interactive, tourist friendly destinations. A unique presentation by researcher Ferroudj Zineb, Department of Nutrition Technologies, Faculty of Natural and Life Sciences, Hadj Lakhdar University of Batna, Algeria, and Dr Krarcha Hadda, Earth Sciences and Universe Institute, University Mostepha Benbloulaid Batna, Algeria, examined the growing interest in food museums, suggesting that such attractions can significantly contribute to tourism, as illustrated by an Italian model in collaboration with Algerian universities. Wadha al Shukaili addressed the contribution of cultural institutions to sustainable tourism, with a focus on how museums can enhance both local and international tourism. Fatma al Alawi from the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism emphasised the importance of service quality in enhancing the visitor experience. The Nehru Science Centre in Mumbai offered insights into the role of science museums in tourism development. Poornima Sathischandra, Assistant Director, Department of National Museums, Sri Lanka, provided a presentation on sustainable museum investments and underscored their potential to drive both economic and tourism growth. The final session, chaired by Moza al Wardi, explored the educational and cultural roles of museums. Speakers from across the region presented their work on how museums can function as educational platforms. Dr Humaid bin Saif al Nofali, representing ALECSO, discussed efforts to support museums in the Arab world, while Dr Mikhail Bryzgalov and Roman Mishin from Russia's National Museum of Music presented the intersection of tradition and innovation in museum digitisation. Other notable presentations included Dr Shaikha al Mandhari's discussion of language and literature in Omani museums, as well as a collaborative paper by Dr Sawsan Haider Abdullah Khreis and Dr Abuelhassan Elshazly on museums' roles in shaping tourism culture and encouraging community participation.
Muscat Daily
18-05-2025
- Muscat Daily
Manah hosts global museum conference to boost Oman tourism
Manah – The Oman Across Ages Museum, in collaboration with the National Records and Archives Authority (NRAA) and the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, inaugurated the international conference 'Museums and Their Role in Tourism Development' on Sunday at its premises in Manah, Dakhliyah. Held under the patronage of H E Salim bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, the three-day conference has brought together over 42 researchers, academics, and experts from 21 countries. The event aims to highlight the role of museums in driving tourism, preserving cultural identity, and fostering investment in the cultural economy. It also seeks to explore how academic partnerships and digital technologies can enhance the visitor experience and position museums as vibrant educational and cultural hubs. Dr Hamad bin Mohammed al Dhuyani, Chairman of NRAA, said the conference aims to establish strategic partnerships between public and private institutions in Oman's museum sector. 'This event promotes international collaboration through peer-reviewed scientific papers and paves the way for future conferences that will highlight integrated work across the cultural, scientific, and intellectual domains,' he said. An exhibition showcasing the role of Omani museum institutions is also being held alongside the conference. Eng Al Yaqzan bin Abdullah al Harthy, Director General of the Oman Across Ages Museum, noted that museums today are key players in sustainable development. 'They serve as mirrors of national identity, promote intercultural dialogue, and contribute significantly to the creative economy by making history an immersive and interactive experience,' he said. The conference features six specialised workshops covering critical topics, including digital technologies, museum management, community engagement, and the development of cultural content. These sessions aim to facilitate both intellectual exchange and practical learning. The agenda addresses several key themes, including the role of museums in tourism, the impact of archaeological missions, legislation protecting national heritage, and the involvement of international organisations. Discussions will also focus on how museums contribute to economic growth, resource management, tourism promotion, and sustainable investment. Additionally, the conference will explore the cultural and educational functions of museums, their collaboration with educational institutions and support for scientific research.
Observer
18-05-2025
- Business
- Observer
Conference focuses on museums and their role in tourism development
MANAH, MAY 18 The three-day International Conference on 'Museums and their Role in Tourism Development' kicked off on Sunday under the auspices of Salim bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, at the Oman Across Ages Museum in the Wilayat of Manah. Organised by the museum in cooperation with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and the National Records and Archives Authority, the conference brings together over 42 researchers, academics and experts from 21 countries. Coinciding with International Museum Day, the conference aims to underscore the essential role of museums in driving sustainable tourism, preserving cultural identity and fostering intercultural dialogue. It seeks to highlight how museums can function as dynamic educational and cultural platforms, contribute to economic diversification and embrace modern digital technologies to enrich the visitor experience. Eng Al Yaqdhan bin Abdullah al Harthy, Director-General of the Oman Across Ages Museum and Chairman of the Organising Committee, stated that the conference reflects Oman's growing stature as a regional hub for museum and cultural studies. "The museums today have become integral pillars of sustainable tourism by transforming history into interactive experiences that engage both the senses and the intellect. Museums offer visitors an opportunity for thoughtful participation, serving not only as cultural destinations but also as platforms that encourage dialogue between civilisations, support the creative economy and promote inclusive educational content," he said. The organising committee received nearly 300 research submissions, of which 42 were accepted and will be presented during eight intensive scientific sessions over the three-day conference. In addition to the academic programme, the conference features a poster exhibition and six specialised workshops delivered by experts from Oman and abroad. These workshops focus on various fields such as digital marketing for museums, heritage conservation techniques and community engagement for museum. Dr Ech Cherki Dahmali, President of the Arab Organization for Museums and a leading member of the International Council of Museums (ICOM), provided insights on the importance of museum development and global collaboration during his keynote address. He emphasised the council's role in enhancing museum development, supporting global collaboration and providing guidance during times of cultural crises. He also reflected on the deep cultural connections between Arab museums and international networks. The conference programme covers four key theme areas: museum and cultural institutions, economy and museum tourism, the cultural and educational role of museums, and digital technologies in museum exhibitions. These themes will be explored through a variety of research papers and expert presentations from countries including Jordan, Egypt, Syria, Algeria, Sudan, Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Russia, India, Iran, and others, alongside contributions from several Omani researchers and students. The event also features contributions from leading Omani academics and public institutions. The workshops and discussions are intended to engage museum professionals, tourism sector stakeholders, educators and students in meaningful dialogue and enhance their practical skills.
