24-02-2025
Oman, Netherlands mark 400 years of maritime ties
MUSCAT, FEB 24
As part of the ongoing celebrations marking 400 years of maritime relations between the Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of the Netherlands, an exclusive session on sustainability and environmental protection was held, featuring the screening of two thought-provoking environmental films.
The event, hosted by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands at the Diplomatic Club, brought together diplomats, environmentalists, film-makers and nature enthusiasts. It featured renowned film-makers Ruben Smit and Maisa al Hooti, who showcased their work on wildlife, climate and marine sustainability.
Ruben Smit presented 'The Wadden Sea', 'WAD', a documentary highlighting the fragile ecosystem of the Wadden Sea, a Unesco World Heritage Site. Omani film-maker Maisa al Hooti screened 'Wild Oman: The Wonder of Arabia', an acclaimed film capturing the country's diverse landscapes, from deserts and mountains to coastal ecosystems.
Stella Kloth, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, emphasised the enduring friendship between the two nations and their shared commitment to environmental sustainability.
'This event underscores the shared importance we place on preserving our natural world and its ecosystems - values deeply woven into both our histories,' she said.
Maisa al Hooti captivated the audience with insights into her film-making journey, highlighting Oman's rich biodiversity and the pressing need for conservation. Her 30-minute documentary immersed attendees in the stunning wildlife and ecosystems of the Sultanate of Oman.
Dutch film-maker Ruben Smit followed with a compelling presentation on 'WAD', exploring the environmental challenges faced by the Wadden Sea. He stressed the urgency of addressing climate change and protecting coastal ecosystems.
'Films like 'WAD' serve as a call to action, reminding us of the urgent need to protect and restore our natural world for future generations,' Smit noted.
The session was a significant part of the broader commemoration of the 400-year maritime connection between Oman and the Netherlands, a relationship that extends beyond trade and diplomacy to a shared dedication to environmental stewardship.
Maisa al Hooti is an award-winning Omani film-maker known for her breathtaking cinematography and advocacy for conservation. 'Wild Oman: The Wonder of Arabia' has earned international recognition for its stunning portrayal of Oman's natural heritage.
Ruben Smit, a Dutch film-maker and environmental advocate, has gained global attention for 'WAD', a documentary that highlights the critical need to protect the Wadden Sea and similar ecosystems worldwide.
