Latest news with #SultanQaboos
Time Out Dubai
29-07-2025
- Time Out Dubai
4 cheapest last-minute holidays from Dubai in August
Time is rapidly running out for a quick getaway during the Dubai summer. With schools back next month, there's a short period of time for UAE-based families to squeeze in a quick last-minute holiday. And for those who like to leave it late, travel app Skyscanner has revealed the best bargain destinations and how far in advance you should book to get the best deal. The flight price comparison site has crunched the numbers and picked out the four most affordable airfare prices for August. Destinations are between one hour and four-and-a-half hours away from the UAE, so there's no need to use up long periods of annual leave to make the most of your trip. Cheapest last-minute holiday destinations from Dubai Colombo With a flight time sitting at around four and a half hours, you can explore the beaches, temples and historic landmarks of Colombo and Sri Lanka in no time at all. Take a boat ride around Beira Lake, where you'll also see the Buddhist temple (Seema Malaka) on the water. The National Museum of Colombo and the Gangaramaya Temple are also places you should stop at. Skyscanner has indicated that flights to the Sri Lankan capital are at their cheapest around 11 days ahead of travel and are priced at an average of Dhs1,209. Bookings for 17 to 19 days are also reasonably priced, varying between Dhs1,295 and Dhs1,385. Muscat (Credit: Shutterstock) Hang out at Al Qurum Beach if you've got the time – it's draped in golden sand and offers stunning views of clear turquoise waters. If you are on the lookout for traditional architecture, we suggest a trip to Al Alam Palace, which was built by Imam Sultan Bin Ahmad. Another must-visit is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, with its tall arches, lanterns, domes and chandeliers. Skyscanner says the cheapest time to book flights to Muscat is around 26 days before the scheduled departure, with flights priced at Dhs398 on average. But if you leave it a little later, then your flight will still be on the cheaper side, ranging between Dhs403 and Dhs437 on average when booked between 21 and 24 days out. Mumbai Credit: Shutterstock Mumbai is a city rich with history, cool architecture and exciting things to do. The birthplace of Bollywood is dubbed the City of Dreams, and it's easy to see why. It's home to three UNESCO World Heritage sites and some spectacular tours. Skyscanner says that airfares to Mumbai are approximately Dhs825 on average when booked within eight or nine days of departure. Kuwait The Kuwait City Marina is a must-visit spot. (Credit: Shutterstock) The Kuwait Towers are a defining landmark in Kuwait, where you can grab a bite to eat while looking out onto the city. Another must-visit is Kuwait's oldest market, Souk Al Mubarakiya, where you'll find Arabic handicrafts, traditional clothing and even perfumes. Travel to Kuwait is priced at Dhs253 on average when booking 25 days ahead of departure, a contrast from the Dhs436 figure when booking 13 days out. Ayoub El Mamoun, Travel Expert at Skyscanner, revealed that people surveyed by Skyscanner liked choosing destinations where their Dirhams go further. He said: 'The summer is a busy period as people look to maximise their vacation time and travel to different destinations and our data shows that there's still time to get the best prices for flights to Colombo, Mumbai, Kuwait City and Muscat for the month of August' 'Not only are these locations short-distance flights from the UAE but our survey shows that 48 percent are choosing destinations where their money goes further. 'Also, 85 percent said they would be willing to change the day or week to save money on their summer vacation, making these cities popular due to the reasonable exchange rate of the UAE Dirham against local currencies and better value for their vacations.' UAE travellers need to be wary that those with local bank cards are set to pay more when making transactions abroad. Starting September 22, UAE banks will raise the foreign transaction fee to 3.14 percent on all international purchases and ATM withdrawals made using credit or debit cards. Looking for things to do in Dubai? 112 best things to do in Dubai in 2025 Everything to tick off your Dubai bucket list 50 free things to do in Dubai Feeling the pinch? Enter free things to do Here's how to eat at 10 expensive Dubai restaurants for less Early bird dinners, lunch specials and more
Observer
03-07-2025
- General
- Observer
Evolution of News Media in Oman
News media in Oman has undergone an interesting journey, whether in terms of news gathering or distribution. Before we understand the evolution of media in Oman, we need to consider the process of information dissemination prior to Oman's modern renaissance. According to the Ministry of Information publication Oman 94, at the time of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos's accession in 1970, no form of news media was available. Even the few transistor radios that existed had to tune into international AM stations. The book states that until 1970, instructions from the Sultan in Salalah were relayed via radiotelephone to the Army headquarters in Bait Al Falaj and posted on the walls in Muscat. Within a week of the accession, for all practical purposes, the first broadcasting station was established. It was small, with just one kW, and based at Bait Al Falaj in Ruwi. From this point, people in Muscat and the surrounding areas could tune into Oman's national radio station. It was from here that His Majesty Sultan Qaboos made his initial broadcast to the nation, outlining his vision for Oman's development. Transmission in Salalah commenced while a new medium wave radio station of 10 kW was inaugurated in 1972 in Muscat, with broadcasting hours of 14 hours a day, increasing to 18 hours during holidays. In 1975, a new radio station was inaugurated in Salalah. By 1979, satellite space technology connected Muscat and Salalah studios. By 1985, the Muscat medium wave transmitter power was increased to 20 kW, and additional VHF FM stations were established in Saham, Buraimi, Nizwa, and Sur to strengthen national broadcast relay. Interestingly, Oman did not experience the era of black-and-white television as such. Instead, colour television was introduced in November 1974. In the early 1970s, there was only one newspaper, but print media expanded through newspapers, magazines, and journals in specialised fields. The official news agency, Oman News Agency, was established in 1986. Fast forward to the millennium, on 11 October 2023, Sultan Haitham bin Tarik stated in a speech to the Council of Ministers, 'In line with the rapid growth seen in all segments of the media sector, notably upgrades to modern media platforms, the Council emphasised the importance of developing this sector and devising active plans to capitalise on developments in a manner that contributes to achieving the national objectives of Omani media.' The Ministry of Information develops media legislation. Over the years, the number of private radio stations has increased, as has the number of newspapers and television channels. The emphasis remains on free and responsible media. The English Service of Radio Oman commenced on 15 December 1975; by 2015, it was providing a 24-hour service. Today, Sultanate of Oman Television operates four channels: the General Channel, the Sports Channel, the Oman Live Channel, and the Oman Cultural Channel. In the digital era, social media platforms have become integral to the media landscape, although they are distinct from traditional media. The Ministry of Information's Ayn platform has become the largest digital content space in Oman. English-language newspapers include Oman Daily Observer, Times of Oman, and Muscat Daily. The Observer has expanded into online media, making its content accessible globally through audio and video production, including podcasts on topics such as personalities, business, and mental health. Times of Oman launched its radio service, TFM. The Private Radio and Television Establishments Law, enacted in 2004, allowed the private sector to own and manage radio and TV channels in Oman. Hala FM and Hi FM are owned by the Media Entertainment Network, Muscat FM is owned by Muttrah Media Services Company, Al Shabiba FM and TFM are affiliated with Muscat Space Media Company, while Al Wisal and Virgin Radio Oman are owned by Sabco Media Corporation. Majan TV is the sole private satellite TV channel in Oman, broadcasting 24 hours since 2008. So, how was information conveyed in the past? Abdullah Al Amry, former news editor at Sultanate of Oman Television (English news), recalls, 'People used to travel from one village to another to convey news. In earlier days, the Sheikh of the area would send a messenger to deliver his oral or written message. Similarly, the Wali would send someone to deliver his messages or instructions. Often, the Wali would send the guard (Haris) to summon or invite Shaikhs to the Wali's office to communicate decisions or issues passing down from the Sultan. Then came wireless technology such as radio and telegraph, leading up to where we are today — with mobile phones, where pictures and news are transmitted within seconds, sometimes live.' If outdoor broadcasting was once the highlight with live coverage, today drone technology provides 360-degree coverage. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is already impacting media, enabling content creation, distribution, and consumption within the media and entertainment industries. This includes automating tasks, personalising user experiences, and even generating content itself. Many believe that AI is transforming media to be more efficient, personalised, and engaging for audiences. For example, AI assists in content creation and production by helping to write scripts, analyse existing scripts for audience reception, and generate new ideas. AI also plays a significant role in visual effects (VFX), generating realistic visuals and simulating complex effects, thus reducing the need for manual work, as explained by experts. Content optimisation is another promising area; AI analyses audience behaviour and feedback to refine content and enhance engagement. The Ministry of Information is actively exploring the full potential of AI, which is poised to be the next major transformation in news media. For traditional journalists, the rise of social media and influencers has necessitated adaptation. Most news organisations have incorporated social media platforms as extended channels for reaching audiences. Suha al Ruqaishi, a broadcaster at Shabab FM and Sultanate of Oman Television, expressed excitement about the advent of podcasts, noting she is the first female journalist in Oman's Arabic media to have her own podcast. She observes that media is evolving rapidly with technological advances: 'But we need to work harder. Technology might make our work easier, but it also presents challenges. We must be more creative and focus on content. Time is not on our side. We need to integrate AI.' She questioned, 'Why could we reach audiences so quickly in the past?' The answer, she suggests, is originality in content. She added, 'We must work hard and uphold our ethics. Media ethics such as fact-checking and credibility are paramount. Experienced journalists can revisit their core principles and roots.' She also pointed out, 'It's good to be well-known, but we must respect the audience—listeners, viewers, and readers. Media isn't just about bloggers and influencers, although they are part of the spectrum. Every element has its importance.' Finally, she emphasised that news media isn't just about opinions but about maintaining objectivity and integrity.
Times of Oman
01-07-2025
- Politics
- Times of Oman
The Power of Conviction in Foreign Policy: Oman's Case
In 2009, three U.S. hikers were detained in Iran on charges of espionage after allegedly crossing an unmarked border during a hike near the Iran-Iraq border in northern Iraq. Their release became a pivotal moment in initiating negotiations between the U.S. and Iran. After the first hiker, Sarah Shourd, was released, U.S. officials visited Oman in December 2010 to explore whether the late Sultan Qaboos could help facilitate talks between the two nations. Shortly thereafter, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton met with the late Sultan, and President Obama conveyed a request for his assistance in engaging Iran. In 2011, the remaining two hikers, Shane Bauer and Josh Fattal, were also released—on both occasions, the Americans were transported from Iran to Oman. The secret talks that ultimately led to the Iran nuclear deal involved direct engagement at the highest levels of leadership. In a 2015 speech, Ayatollah Khamenei revealed that Sultan Qaboos had acted as an intermediary after the U.S. President reached out to him to help resolve the nuclear issue and lift sanctions. Despite initial Iranian skepticism, Sultan Qaboos asked them to reconsider, and his trusted counsel helped lay the foundation for renewed U.S.-Iranian dialogue. Oman's diplomacy was once again brought into focus. Its consistent efforts had earned it the credibility to act as a trusted intermediary between two adversaries — a status built over decades of sincere and principled engagement in pursuit of regional and global peace. That trust led to the signing of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2015 — a major diplomatic breakthrough between Iran and the West. But it was short-lived. In 2018, President Trump unilaterally withdrew from the deal and re-imposed sanctions. Now, more than a decade after Oman helped initiate those talks, and during President Trump's second term, the Sultanate once again served as an intermediary between the two sides. The first round of renewed talks took place on April 12, 2025, in Muscat. A White House statement described the discussions as 'very positive and constructive,' thanking Oman for its support and noting that Special Envoy Witkoff conveyed President Trump's instructions to resolve differences 'through dialogue and diplomacy, if that is possible.' Since April, five rounds of U.S.–Iran nuclear talks have taken place between Muscat and Rome. The sixth round was scheduled for June 15 in Muscat, but Iran subsequently withdrew after Israeli attacks on Iranian territory began on June 13. President Trump later confirmed that the U.S. was aware of the planned Israeli attacks. He remarked that the day of the attacks marked Day 61 — just one day after the expiration of a 60-day ultimatum given to Iran to accept the U.S.-proposed framework. Describing the attacks as 'very successful,' the President added that Iran should have accepted the deal while there was still time. Iranian officials, however, had made it clear from the start that negotiations could not continue under pressure. These attacks underscore a familiar pattern: unilateral actions that undermine diplomatic efforts. Even as talks were underway, Israel targeted the very subject of those discussions – with the knowledge of the U.S., a direct party in these talks. This not only jeopardized the integrity of the negotiations but also signaled a disregard for the value of diplomacy, as opposed to military attacks that result in the death of innocents. The implicit message — that failure to meet a deadline could lead to deadly consequences — represents a disturbing distortion of what diplomacy is meant to achieve. Israel's connection to the nuclear negotiations is rooted in its close alignment with U.S. foreign policy. This became especially evident in May 2023, when the current U.S. Ambassador to Oman stated during a hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee: 'I will encourage Oman to build on its announcement permitting Israeli civilian overflights through its airspace by taking additional steps, including consideration of full normalization with Israel.' While ambassadors are expected to strengthen bilateral ties between their countries and the countries to which they are assigned, this position appeared to prioritize the interests of a third party — Israel — overlooking Oman's avowed principles in this case, which are non-negotiable. As with its diplomatic outreach to Iran, the United States – along with other countries – has also turned to the Sultanate's good offices to help secure the release of its citizens in other countries. Shane Bauer, one of the three hikers detained in 2009, later wrote that Oman was 'the country most responsible for our eventual release.' The Sultanate has also played a key role in facilitating the release of American detainees in Yemen on multiple occasions. From these examples, it is evident that Oman has a track record — built over decades — of being an 'honest broker,' facilitating talks and mediating disputes when requested. Despite the various challenges, the Sultanate has consistently demonstrated its resolve to assist its friends whenever possible and to find viable solutions to conflicts through patient and respectful dialogue. Oman is proud of its history of friendship with the United States, first formalized almost two hundred years ago by a Treaty of Amity and Commerce. While the Sultanate seeks to strengthen its strategic relationship with the U.S. and all its friends, the undermining of sovereignty and diplomacy can only sabotage the prospects for real peace. Oman offers a model for diplomacy rooted in integrity — not pressure, not coercion, but conviction. As the Sultanate strives toward making the world a better place, where all can live in peace and security, a nation's steadfast commitment to its moral principles in trying times is absolutely vital for the world's well-being. And today, Oman's commitment to peace, grounded in justice, respect for sovereignty, and self-determination, is more essential to the world than ever.
Observer
28-06-2025
- General
- Observer
Mango Festival in Al Awabi highlights heritage
AL AWABI: The first edition of the Al Awabi Mangos Festival concluded in Al Alia village in the Wilayat of Al Awabi, Al Batinah South Governorate, on Saturday. The festival was organised by the Office of the Governor of Al Batinah South Governorate, in collaboration with several local institutions and farmers. The festival aimed to highlight the Omani mango tree and promote it as an agricultural heritage that represents an integral part of the village and region's identity. It also highlighted the agricultural importance and status of the mango tree in the community. Al Alia village is well-known for its abundant produce of high-quality mango varieties. Mango is a prolific fruit-bearing tree distinguished by its sweet, juicy flesh and rich flavour which placed it among the most-consumed highly-demanded fruits. The festival included a variety of cultural, agricultural and entertainment activities which appealed to various segments of society. Most notable among these were the market corner, which showcased local agricultural products and traditional handicrafts; the rural entrepreneurship corner, which showcased youth initiatives and projects; the small farmer corner, which taught children the principles and importance of agriculture and the interactive theatre corner, which hosted cultural, artistic and entertainment segments. The festival also included an awareness lecture on mango cultivation and care methods, an experience of picking the fruit directly from the trees, tours to explore the landmarks of Al Alia village and entertainment competitions. Mango Festival in Al Awabi highlights heritage Oman's commitment to mango cultivation is further reflected in a comprehensive scientific encyclopedia on the mango tree, considered the first of its kind globally. Commissioned in 2005 under the royal directives of the late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos, the encyclopedia took nearly a decade to complete and was launched in 2016 in Arabic, English, French and Spanish, with an electronic version also available for global access. This encyclopedia documents mango cultivation in 65 countries and serves as a vital scientific reference for protecting Omani mango varieties, combating agricultural pests and mitigating the effects of salinity on production. Historically, mango cultivation dates back around 6,000 years in South Asia and was introduced to Oman through ancient trade routes during the 10th century AD. Today, mango ranks as the fourth most important fruit crop in the Sultanate of Oman, after date palms, citrus fruits and bananas, with popular local varieties including Al Halkoom and Banana Stick. By celebrating this beloved fruit, the festival strengthens community ties to agricultural heritage and highlights the importance of conserving rare local varieties for future generations. TEXT & PHOTOS BY YAHYA AL SALMANI
Times of Oman
04-06-2025
- General
- Times of Oman
Sultan Qaboos Mosque in Nizwa: A landmark embodies religious, cultural significance of A'Dakhiliyah
Nizwa — Sultan Qaboos Mosque in Nizwa, A'Dakhiliyah Governorate, embodies the historical, religious, and cultural prominence of the wilayat, distinguished by its unique architectural character that reflects authentic Omani heritage. The mosque's architectural design, inaugurated on 18 September 2015, draws inspiration from the traditional style of A'Dakhiliyah Governorate, emphasizing simplicity in form and the optimal use of interior ornamentation. The mosque is distinguished by its four minarets, which lend it a distinctive charm, setting it apart from other mosques across various wilayats. The design also incorporates traditional materials and authentic Omani building colors, reinforcing the mosque's connection to the identity of the place. The mosque is located at the intersection of major roads linking Nizwa to Muscat, Salalah, and Bahla, within a new urban development plan underway in the city. Built on an 8,000-square-meter plot adjacent to Wadi Nizwa, it is clearly visible from all directions. The mosque's floor has been significantly elevated above ground level to protect it from floods and to highlight its prominent geographical location. The mosque's structure consists of a main prayer hall covering 3,546 square meters, with interior dimensions of 60 meters by 60 meters, accommodating approximately 4,500 worshippers. The main prayer hall is accessed via the qibla axis through a grand and spacious staircase and a covered courtyard. Four additional entrances allow entry from the garden to the north and south of the mosque, leading to the courtyard area adjacent to the hall via a large staircase. The covered courtyard and two open courtyards can serve as additional prayer spaces, surrounded by an arched wall enclosing ablution areas and shoe storage cabinets. The outdoor areas can accommodate around 5,300 worshippers as supplementary prayer spaces. The mosque includes a women's prayer hall with a capacity of 434, located on the ground floor and accessible separately through external courtyards and a lobby. All main facilities of the mosque are situated on the ground floor, elevated five meters above ground level, including ablution areas, offices, and auxiliary services. Meanwhile, all equipment is housed in the service floor above the main prayer hall. The mosque's architectural design features a 27-meter-diameter dome rising 55 meters above ground, flanked by four minarets, each standing 80 meters tall, marking the four corners of the main prayer hall. The exterior finishes of the prayer hall include side buttresses and parapets atop the building, all inspired by the region's prevailing architectural style. The main prayer hall is enclosed by a protective wall clad in stone, adorned with arched forms and enhanced with Quranic inscriptions and carvings. Inside, the main prayer hall rises about 14 meters, with the dome reaching approximately 40 meters in height. The interior is finished with decorative marble, ornamental plasterwork on walls, arched niches, and ceilings painted with specialized decorative pigments inspired by regional designs. The qibla wall is extensively decorated with marble, while the marble mihrab features intricate inlay and engraving work, including complex carvings, Quranic calligraphy, and geometric and floral patterns. The prayer hall's windows incorporate delicate layers of translucent marble and stained decorative glass. Sultan Qaboos Mosque Library in Nizwa stands as one of the mosque's most important facilities. Opened alongside the mosque under the supervision of the Sultan Qaboos Higher Centre for Culture and Science, the library spans 277.50 square meters, designed across two floors around a glass-covered central courtyard. Additionally, it includes three Quran memorization classrooms built around a dedicated courtyard and a multi-purpose hall covering 306 square meters, equipped with fixed seating and audiovisual systems for instructional use. —— Ends/AH
