Latest news with #OmaniCulture
Times of Oman
26-05-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
National Programme for Craft Industries launched
Muscat: The Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (ASMED) on Monday announced the launch of 'Oman Crafts', the National Programme for Craft Industries. 'Oman Crafts' emerges as a strategic system to upgrade the craft industries' sector in the Sultanate of Oman, activate the sector's role in supporting the national economy, empower Omani crafts people and consolidate the presence of the Omani cultural identity in the global arena. The programme stems from ongoing efforts to implement the goals of Oman Vision 2040, notably by supporting culture-related industries, enhancing the sustainability of handicrafts-based small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and establish an integrated system for training, marketing and financing of SMEs. The programme aims to enable the Omani crafts sector to become a global role model on enhancing economic sustainability and attracting national talent. This objective is envisaged to be achieved through the empowerment of Omani craftspeople, supporting innovation in their respective vocations, developing their skills and enhancing integration among entrepreneurship. The National Programme for Craft Industries seeks to achieve a number of strategic objectives, which include: - Empowering craftsmen and building national capacities in the field of productivity and innovation - Improving product quality and developing craft value chains - Enhancing the competitiveness and local and international marketing of craft products - Utilizing modern technologies and innovation in developing the crafts sector - Establishing an integrated infrastructure that includes incubators and specialized business centres - Developing a legislative and institutional environment that supports craft industries - Enhancing the sustainability of the craft industries sector and linking it to cultural and tourism identity. The programme lays emphasis on innovation and technological development, local content governance, product marketing and national identity protection, investment opportunities and economic sustainability.
Forbes
11-05-2025
- Forbes
How To Spend Three Days In Muscat
Make the most of your time in Oman's capital city. An underrated destination in the Middle East, Oman wows visitors with its rose-gold desert dunes, rugged mountains, crystal-clear waters, pristine islands, terraced farms and white-sand beaches. Brimming with character, capital city Muscat is home to cultural attractions that offer a glimpse at the country's profound connection to its heritage while embracing a nuanced approach to modern progress. Omani culture also thrives in atmospheric souqs (markets), ancient forts and quiet agricultural villages tucked away in the country's mountainous interior, an easy drive from Muscat. Elsewhere, under the surface in aquamarine waters, turtles, stingrays and black reef sharks hint at Oman's astounding biodiversity. If you only have enough time for a fleeting, three-day glimpse of Oman, here's the itinerary to follow for a lasting impression. Have a stellar stay at The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort. For a sophisticated introduction to Muscat, check into Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort, just a 10-minute drive from Muscat International Airport. With nine world-class restaurants, a stunning outdoor pool, a padel court and the luxurious Guerlain Spa, the October 2024-opened property is a destination in its own right that's set on a private beach in the upscale Al Mouj area, next door to Al Mouj Golf, an oceanfront 18-hole championship course designed by Greg Norman. The resort's contemporary architecture and design draw inspiration from its coastal location and Oman's rich maritime history. The snazzy accommodations have a superyacht aesthetic — cream, beige and pops of navy set the nautical tone — and deliver gorgeous sea views best enjoyed from private balconies. Don't forget to take advantage of the signature St. Regis butler service, which will promptly fulfill requests for packing needs, garment pressing, restaurant reservations and a cup of steaming chamomile tea to unwind after a long flight. When you're ready to explore Muscat, head to Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, a 25-minute drive from your hotel. Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said commissioned this contemporary Islamic architectural masterpiece in 1995 to celebrate his 30-year reign. Measuring more than 90 acres and having a capacity of 20,000 worshippers, the largest mosque in Oman features arched walkways; an ornate, 164-foot central dome; a massive Swarovski crystal chandelier; five minarets that symbolize the five pillars of Islam; doors with inscriptions of Quranic verses; stained glass panels; and marble walls adorned with floral and geometric designs. In the main prayer hall, you'll find the world's second-largest carpet (only bested by Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Zayed Mosque), handcrafted with natural colors over nearly four years. Audio guides and guided tours are available. Admire the sea, sun and sights. No visit to Muscat is complete without a wander through the historic Mutrah Souq. This traditional market, built in the 1820s with mud and palm leaves, is just a 15-minute drive from the mosque. Now restored, its labyrinthine lanes remain a fascinating place to shop for antiques, traditional clothing, Omani khanjar (daggers), frankincense, jewelry, handmade sandals, coffee pots and dates. Buy a cup of karak (milky tea) and Omani halwa (dessert with cardamom, saffron and nuts) to enjoy alongside views of whitewashed low-rises, mosques and the sea while you stroll along the nearly two-mile-long Mutrah Corniche. At the Royal Opera House Muscat, a 15-minute drive toward your hotel, take a guided tour to learn about Islamic, Mughal, Oriental and European architectural influences on Muscat's iconic cultural institution, see an exhibition of rare instruments and stroll through landscaped gardens. If you'd like to experience a show here, check out the official program for upcoming opera, musical, ballet and acrobatic performances during your trip. Back at The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort, make time for a quick dip in the pool or a swim in the Arabian Sea. Afterward, admire the sunset as you stroll along the private sandy beach or lounge on a sunbed with a refreshing beverage from beachfront bar Paralia. After you freshen up, head to the always-humming Hakkasan at the hotel. Here, you'll find a contemporary take on authentic Cantonese flavors and techniques, with an artful presentation by well-respected executive chef Sebastian Tan. Combining modern design with traditional Chinese motifs, the restaurant's dark wood screens, moody lighting and stunning sculptural installation create a refined ambiance. When it comes to the dishes, start things off with the delightful Supreme dim sum (lobster, seabass, chicken and wagyu beef dim sum), a Hakkasan classic. With perfectly balanced flavors, the organic honey-drizzled, charcoal-grilled Chilean sea bass; wok-fried Omani prawns; and pomegranate-flavored sweet and sour chicken are all excellent choices for mains. The cocktail menu boasts inventive creations like the Silk Road Margarita, with cardamom and pistachio tequila. See what lies beneath at the Damaniyat Islands. Wake up early for a quick breakfast to get to the nearby Al Mouj Marina by 8 a.m. for an exciting day of adventure. From here, a 40-minute speedboat journey brings you to the Damaniyat Islands, an archipelago about 11 miles off the coast of Muscat that is surrounded by crystal-clear blue-green waters. These nine islands, made of limestone rocks and ancient coral reefs, are a designated nature reserve and a nesting site for migratory birds and turtles in summer. A sublime destination for snorkeling, these waters are teeming with coral shoals, turtles, angelfish, parrotfish and other marine species. Tour operators will provide snorkeling gear, lifejackets and island permits. The shallow waters mean it's easy to explore under the surface, even if you don't have prior snorkeling experience. While you're not allowed to disembark on the islands from May through October to protect nesting turtles and birds, you can visit the sandy beaches from November to April and walk up to viewpoints after you've snorkeled for a few hours. From September to October, you might also spot whale sharks, while stingrays and dolphins are commonly seen in the deeper waters around the islands. Having worked up an appetite with the underwater exploring, return to your hotel for a break and a breezy, Mediterranean-inspired lunch at charming Greek restaurant Zorba. Glimpse splendid sea vistas from the terrace tables and through floor-to-ceiling windows in the indoor dining room. Fuchsia bougainvillea, coastal hues and chef Athanasios Chatziefthymiou's grandmother-approved recipes transport you to a quaint eatery in Thessaloniki. Have a memorable Mediterranean meal at Zorba. There's no better place for some midday relaxation than the hotel's serene and stylish Guerlain Spa. Arrive 30 minutes before your session to use the sauna and hammam. Then, drift off into bliss during a reinvigorating Imperial Relaxing Massage, delivered on a heated bed. The spa's lavish Royal Suite offers the ultimate pampering for couples. After a full day of activities, it's welcomed news to hear that dinner will be at the hotel. Make your way to Coya, where the Incan-heritage-inspired interiors with painted murals, foliage, a lively bar and a curated electronic and Latin soundtrack create an intriguingly upbeat atmosphere. Chef Dhharram Rana's menu focuses on modern Peruvian fare, which is best enjoyed family-style. You can't go wrong with the ceviche platter; cheesy, truffle-flavored potato churros; prawn and Chilean sea bass gyoza; and chargrilled beef skewers. The mushroom rice hot pot also impresses. Finish with the tres leches cake with salted dulce de leche, exactly the kind of indulgence you deserve when on holiday. Visit the 17th-century Nizwa Fort. Have a leisurely breakfast in your hotel at the spice-route-inspired Omani restaurant Karibu. This spot serves a lavish breakfast until 11 a.m., so you can enjoy a slow morning and fuel up with its decadent beef bacon or smoked salmon eggs Benedict. Once you're ready to explore, begin the 90-minute journey to the ancient town of Nizwa, which is surrounded by the Hajar Mountains. Formerly the capital of Oman in the 6th and 7th centuries, this conservative town with ancient mosques, a fort, a castle and a historic souq is still considered the country's cultural capital, making it well worth the trek. Your first stop here is the 17th-century Nizwa Fort, which was built over 12 years. Its monumental circular tower, the largest in the region, boasts ingenious features such as notches designed to pour hot date syrup on invaders. The adjacent Nizwa Castle traces back to the 9th century and was expanded by ruling imams (religious and political leaders) in the centuries since and renovated in the 1990s. You can walk through the castle's various rooms, including residential quarters, guest accommodations and official spaces used for religious education and public meetings. A museum exhibits traditional clothing, jewelry, agricultural tools and beehive tombs. Stop by the old village of Birkat Al Mouz. Right next to the castle, the Nizwa Souq, thought to date to the 3rd century, is full of shops selling high-quality frankincense, incense burners, coffee pots, handmade silver jewelry, khanjar, embroidered kumma (traditional headwear for men), pottery and other items that would make for unique souvenirs and gifts. Bargaining is expected. For lunch, head to Liwan Nizwa, a five-minute walk from Nizwa Souq, to try some delicious Omani specialties, such as rice with curried fish and grilled seafood or meat platters. Wash it down with refreshing laban (a yogurt-based drink) or fresh fruit juices. Before you return to Muscat, make a quick stop at the old village of Birkat Al Mouz, where you can walk past the crumbling ruins of abandoned houses, wind your way along UNESCO-listed aflaj (irrigation systems) and take refuge in the cool shade of banana and palm trees. On your last night in Oman, prepare to feast on sumptuous contemporary Italian seafood in the hotel's elegant Roberto's. Get the evening off to a delicious start with a cocktail such as the frankincense-infused Spritz My Way. Puglia-born chef Giandonato Tafuri's talent results in memorable dishes like slow-roasted octopus, gnocchi in basil pesto (prepared tableside with liquid nitrogen), oven-baked sea bass in charcoal sea salt crust, and roasted spiced chicken. End your time in Muscat on a sweet note with decadent tiramisu or the luscious, olive oil-drizzled pistachio ice cream.
The National
09-05-2025
- General
- The National
Oman reinterprets the sablah community space at Venice Biennale of Architecture
Shifting in form and purpose, the Omani sablah resists definition. It is where the community gathers to discuss social matters or to mark life events such as weddings and funerals. It is a place of conversation, celebration and mourning, whether between four walls or under the shade of a palm tree. The sablah adapted as cities in Oman grew, enduring as an essential gathering space for communities. The Oman Pavilion is highlighting the sablah at the Venice Biennale of Architecture with a bold new take on the concept. To quote the exhibition literature, 'the project does not aim to preserve the sablah but to reactivate it'. Curated by Majeda Alhinai, the pavilion is titled Traces. It presents a sablah that, much like the core concept itself, is open to interpretation. 'With our structure, we wanted to create a space that had no fixed interior or exterior,' Alhinai says. 'It's a space that is a series of thresholds that allow people to either pause, sit and gather, or to just move and pass through.' At first glance, the sablah at the Oman Pavilion appears gestural and improvised. However, there is a thoughtfulness to its design. It takes cues from various motifs from Omani culture: the khanjar ceremonial dagger, the grilles of traditional windows and the decorative designs on mandoos storage chests. It also draws its geometry from palm frond weaving, the designs of wooden doors and the branching forms of the Falaj irrigation system. 'Since our pavilion is titled Traces, it's a series of traces of our craft in Oman,' Alhinai says. 'They are metaphorical traces as well as physical traces, where we're starting to look at very specific ornamental forms in parts of our arts and crafts.' Features of these traditional motifs have been deconstructed and abstracted before being fused together in the final result for the sablah. 'We take some of these traces to delineate outlines and then adapt it back on to a physical form,' Alhinai says. However, the sablah is in by no means in final form. Composed out of hundreds of 1.5mm aluminium panels, it can be reconstructed in many other permutations. The aluminium pieces are porous in some parts, promoting air flow. 'We first went through a digital sculpting process and then looked at the engineering to make a structure that is woven out of these aluminium panels and strips,' Alhinai says. 'We wanted to create a structure that, once disassembled, it could be reassembled again in a public space in Oman.' Accentuating the heritage aspect of the project is a series of benches that have been woven out of palm fronds. The benches are circular and in undulating forms, much like the sablah installation. 'The woven palm leaf was then referenced back on to our structure with the aluminium panels that kind of behave in a similar way.' The benches were also crafted by Omani artisans, Alhinai says. 'We really wanted to host a lot of our communal crafts that would be otherwise lost if we didn't carry them on,' she says. 'We wanted to create this collaboration with the local community. We commissioned artisans in the Bahla region of Oman. It was a way to bring our community into our space.' Traces is Oman Pavilion's debut exhibition at the Venice Biennale of Architecture. By reimagining the sablah, the pavilion explores how the structure can inspire adaptable and resilient communal spaces by bridging tradition and modernity while reflecting values of hospitality, dialogue and community. 'We are looking at our local heritage to extract these ideologies for space and circulation and movement, as well as form in a non-traditional way,' Alhinai says. 'But it's very much part of our arts and craft movement.' Although deeply rooted in Omani tradition, Traces aims to be a global model for designing inclusive, adaptable environments that foster shared responsibility and connection. It also demonstrates how multifunctional communal spaces can address both local and universal challenges, promoting interaction and inclusivity. 'One of the main agendas of the biennale is to examine how can each country come together to create a global toolkit,' Alhinai says. 'I really feel that, just by people understanding and knowing what the sablah is, their curiosity around the subject is a win for us.' Traces will be running at the Venice Biennale of Architecture until November 23
