Latest news with #MusandamInternationalDivingFestival
Observer
09-07-2025
- Business
- Observer
Musandam International Diving Festival from August 25 to 28
KHASAB: In a significant step aimed at reinforcing the position of Musandam Governorate as a premier marine tourism destination, officials announced the launch of the first Musandam International Diving Festival, in collaboration with the Musandam Exploration Diving Centre. The details were revealed during a press conference held this morning at the Atana Khasab Hotel. Sayyid Ibrahim bin Said al Busaidy, Governor of Musandam and Badr bin Mohammed al Shihi, owner of the Musandam Exploration Centre, addressed the media. Sayyid Ibrahim confirmed that the festival will take place in the Wilayat of Khasab from August 25 to 28, as part of efforts to boost eco-tourism and marine activities during the summer season. The initiative is designed to attract divers, tourists and investors from around the world through a sustainable and immersive experience. Musandam International Diving Festival from August 25 to 28 He highlighted that Musandam's waters occupy a strategic junction between the Arabian Gulf and the Indian Ocean, creating a unique marine ecosystem rich in biodiversity — an ideal environment for divers of all levels. Diving tourism, he noted, has the potential to become a key driver of the Governorate's tourism economy by attracting a high-value segment of tourists who seek nature-based, immersive experiences. On his part, Al Shihi noted that the growing trend among underwater photographers to explore new, coral-rich environments makes the festival a timely opportunity to promote Musandam's potential. He added that while the centre has regularly participated in international exhibitions to promote Musandam as a diving hub, hosting the festival on local soil marks a significant milestone — reducing the need for external promotion and drawing global attention to the region, especially with the attendance of influential figures in the diving world.
Observer
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
Largest graffiti mural launched in Musandam
Khasab: A massive artistic mural — the largest of its kind in Oman and among the most prominent in the Gulf region — was inaugurated in Musandam Governorate. Spanning a striking mountain facade at the governorate's entrance, the contemporary graffiti-style artwork reflects the spirit and unique maritime identity of the region, blending art with the local environment. The event was held under the auspices of Sayyid Ibrahim bin Said al Busaidy, Governor of Musandam. The mural, created by Omani artist Abdulaziz al Shehi, stretches 70 metres in length and 14 metres in height. Its execution took 40 consecutive days, with an average of three hours of work daily, utilising over 500 cans of paint. The artwork vividly depicts scenes of marine life for which Musandam is renowned, including pearl diving, dolphins, coral reefs and various maritime activities, transforming the site into an artistic and tourist landmark that captivates visitors and residents alike. Sayyid Ibrahim, stated: "We take pride in this artistic work, which showcases the beauty of Musandam's marine environment and enhances the governorate's visual identity. We encourage such initiatives that harness art to serve tourism and provide opportunities for the people of Musandam to innovate and excel." The Musandam Governorate also announced plans to organise a graffiti festival as part of the upcoming "Musandam Winter" events, featuring a selection of local and international artists. The festival aims to transform several public spaces into open-air art galleries that convey cultural and aesthetic messages reflecting the governorate's natural beauty and heritage. This creative momentum aligns with Musandam's preparations to launch the Musandam International Diving Festival next September, as part of a broader vision to enhance the region's artistic and touristic appeal while maintaining a balance between environmental preservation and showcasing nature as a source of inspiration and creativity. — ONA
Muscat Daily
02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Muscat Daily
Musandam unveils Oman's largest mural
Khasab – In a spectacular showcase of culture and environmental awareness, Musandam has unveiled the largest mural of its kind in Oman – a massive graffiti work now displayed on a mountain face at the entrance of the governorate. The 70m long and 14m tall mural was created by Omani artist Abdulaziz al Shehhi over 40 days. More than 500 cans of spray paint were used to create scenes depicting the rich marine ecosystem that defines Musandam. The artwork features dolphins, coral reefs, diving scenes and native marine species, turning the rock face into a striking visual landmark. Sayyid Ibrahim bin Said al Busaidi, Governor of Musandam, praised the initiative, stating, 'We are proud of this artwork, which reflects the beauty of Musandam's marine environment and contributes to enhancing the visual identity of the governorate. We encourage initiatives that utilise art in serving tourism and open doors for the youth of the governorate to innovate and excel.' In line with its strategy to integrate art into tourism development, the governorate has announced plans for a Graffiti Art Festival as part of its upcoming Musandam Winter events. The festival will bring together local and international artists to transform public spaces into outdoor galleries, using Musandam's environment and heritage as their canvas. This initiative complements preparations for Musandam International Diving Festival, scheduled for September. Both festivals – graffiti and diving – form part of a broader vision to position the governorate as a destination where creativity, heritage and environmental awareness converge. Musandam's efforts aim to promote sustainable tourism by leveraging cultural expression, offering new experiences to residents and visitors, while preserving the natural landscape as a source of inspiration.
