Latest news with #MuscatDaily
Muscat Daily
7 hours ago
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Khareef 2025 welcomes tourists to Salalah
Eco-friendly tourism projects add a new element of environment consciousness to revelry surrounding Khareef 2025, uplifting the soul of Salalah Driven by a firm belief in the potential of Omani youth and a deep passion for tourism, Nader bin Bakhit Fadhel, from the Wilayat of Salalah, is reshaping the landscape of sustainable, family-friendly tourism in Dhofar Governorate — beginning with the Khareef season this year. Central to his recent efforts is a newly signed agreement with the Environment Authority to develop the Khor Al Mughsail Nature Reserve, a project aimed at enhancing the region's ecotourism offerings while safeguarding its unique biodiversity. 'This project is close to my heart,' Nader told Muscat Daily. 'It aligns perfectly with my long-term vision to create sustainable tourism opportunities in Salalah.' Nader's tourism journey began in 2022 with the launch of Lamer Al Mughsail, a youth-led initiative rooted in Dhofar and focused on enriching the visitor experience during the Khareef season. Spanning 6,000sqm, the initiative takes its name from the sea adjacent to Al Mughsail — a tribute to the natural beauty of the area. Located along the scenic coast of Al Mughsail, the project has grown into a well-known destination during the monsoon season, offering a thoughtful mix of recreation and hospitality for visitors of all ages. Managed entirely by a local Omani enterprise and supported by private sector partners, Lamer Al Mughsail features restaurants and cafés serving international and Omani cuisines, a children's play area, a man-made waterfall, boating experiences, and beach seating facilities. 'The idea was simple,' said Nader. 'Create a space where nature and tourism co-exist in harmony, while contributing to the local economy.' Building on this success, Nader's latest venture — the development of Khor Al Mughsail Nature Reserve — will extend over 7,700sqm. Construction is scheduled to commence in Q3 of 2025 and the project will feature a 120m zipline, water activities, eco-education zones, and food and beverage outlets, all designed to blend seamlessly with the site's natural surroundings. Sanctuary for biodiversity Situated at the eastern edge of Jabal Al Qamar, Khor Al Mughsail covers over half a square kilometre and plays a crucial role as a habitat for both local and migratory bird species. With rich food sources available throughout the year, the lagoon attracts birds from regions as far-flung as Africa, Europe, and the Indian subcontinent — underscoring its importance on the global avian migratory route. Despite his growing recognition, Nader's journey has not been without obstacles. 'In the beginning, securing funding and navigating environmental regulations was extremely challenging,' he said. 'Many viewed the Khareef season as too short to warrant significant investment. But I believed in the vision and stayed committed.' By forming strategic partnerships with private investors and public institutions, and by training local youth to take active roles in the venture, Nader developed a tourism model that champions sustainability and community development. 'Working with small and medium enterprises helped us instill a shared sense of purpose,' he said. 'Today, we're not just building tourism projects, we're building local capacity and empowering the next generation.' Inspiring the next generation Nader's message to young Omanis is clear – stay resilient, think big, and believe in your ideas. 'Start small, but always think big. There will be challenges, but with persistence, teamwork, and a deep belief in Oman's untapped potential, you can make a lasting impact,' he asserts. As Dhofar continues to attract thousands of visitors each Khareef season, Nader's work stands as a shining example of what can be accomplished when community engagement, conservation, and innovation intersect. One project at a time, he is helping transform Salalah into a sustainable tourism hub — led by Omanis, for Omanis, and for the world.
Muscat Daily
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Muscat Daily
Omani actor Yousuf al Housni appears in Brad Pitt's ‘F1'
Muscat – Omani actor Yousuf al Housni makes an appearance in the blockbuster F1 , the Brad Pitt-led Formula One film currently screening in cinemas worldwide. This marks his second appearance in a major international production following his earlier role in the sci-fi epic Dune . Speaking to Muscat Daily , Housni shared how he was cast in the role. 'There's no formal audition for these roles. We apply through a casting agency's website, where our portfolio – including videos, showreels and casting tapes – is already uploaded. If selected, you simply agree to the terms and payment,' he said. Housni appears in the Abu Dhabi sequence of the film shot over a year ago in a five-day schedule. He plays a senior official in the pit stop during a race sequence. 'It is a small role but being on such a high-profile set is a valuable experience in itself. I am optimistic that very soon I will lead the narrative,' he added. Describing his experience on set, Housni said working with Pitt was 'awesome'. While direct interaction and photography with lead actors were restricted, he noted that sharing the set with top international talent was both inspiring and motivating. 'It's definitely good for my career.' Looking ahead, Housni said he hopes to be the first Omani actor in a leading role in a major global production. 'My aim is to work on more global projects, build a strong reputation internationally, and eventually direct and produce my own films,' he added.
Muscat Daily
a day ago
- Muscat Daily
First Omani Rutab Festival to celebrate culture, farming and tourism
Wadi al Maawil – South Batinah will host the inaugural Omani Rutab Festival on July 17 and 18 in a celebration of agriculture, culture and tourism. The event will be held at the Hujrat al Sheikh Tourist Walkway in Wadi al Maawil, a location known for its scenic heritage and high visitor turnout. The two-day festival will highlight the governorate's date farming traditions, especially its prized varieties of rutab – half-ripened dates that hold culinary and cultural importance in Oman. Farmers, artisans and families from across the governorate are expected to participate, showcasing products and engaging visitors with local customs. 'This festival reflects our commitment to empowering local communities – especially artisan families – by giving them a platform to showcase their skills and products,' an official from South Batinah Governor's Office told Muscat Daily. 'It will offer visitors an authentic and immersive experience that blends agriculture, culture and ecotourism.' Running from 5pm to 11pm each evening, the festival will feature stalls selling date-based products, palm-derived handicrafts, organic items and heritage goods. Timed to avoid peak summer heat, the evening hours are designed to create a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere amid palm groves and heritage landmarks, the official added. Wilayats across South Batinah will present their finest rutab harvests, offering visitors opportunities to taste, buy and learn about the significance of dates in Omani life. The venue, Hujrat al Sheikh Walkway, connects three heritage sites – Hujrat al Sheikh Quarter, Al Safalah Castle and Bait al Ghasham Museum – and provides access to green oases, historical homes and Al Washhihi Falaj, drawing over 15,000 visitors weekly from Oman and neighbouring countries. Built at a cost exceeding RO80,000, the 1,500m walkway was developed in collaboration with public and private stakeholders. Designed with a traditional Omani look, it includes restored historic walls, heritage-style entrances, and a newly added 200m elevated stretch offering views of surrounding farms, towers and houses. Recent upgrades have added shaded seating, signage and visitor facilities, making it a key site for culture and eco-tourism. Officials hope the event will become an annual tradition, expanding its reach and appeal in future editions. 'This is more than a festival,' the official said. 'It's a movement to celebrate who we are – our roots, our land and our shared future.'
Muscat Daily
3 days ago
- General
- Muscat Daily
Summer break: How can students stay meaningfully engaged?
With schools now closed for summer, how can students be engaged meaningfully during the holidays? Is there need for more summer activities for children and teenagers? Here is what Muscat Daily readers said – Aarti Menon, Teacher Summer is the perfect time for students to explore hobbies outside the syllabus – music, painting, creative writing or coding. I do think Oman needs more affordable, structured summer camps for different age groups. Many children end up glued to screens because parents can't always engage them. Activities should focus on both fun and life skills.. Faisal al Amr, Private sector employee Children today spend too much time indoors, especially during the hot months. We need more cultural and indoor sports programmes that connect them with Omani heritage. My sons love astronomy. I wish we had more workshops on astronomy conducted by Oman Astronomical Society. Meaningful engagement will keep them learning, active and off their phones. Neha Prakash, Marketing executive As a working parent, I find the long summer break very difficult to manage. Private workshops are expensive and often not age-appropriate. I'd love to see more community-led free or low-cost sessions in art, environment and even robotics. Teens, in particular, need group activities to keep them social and mentally healthy. Sunayna Bobby, Teacher Summer vacations could be utilised to make children understand the importance of community service. They need to understand that as responsible individuals they should become meaningful contributors – whether small or big – to society. It could be working at an NGO, volunteering for clean ups, spending time with elderly at old age homes, part of soup kitchens, organising donations for a purpose etc. Sulaima Khalid al Kindi, IT professional Libraries, museums and parks should host interactive holiday sessions. If students are exposed to real-world challenges – sustainability, digital skills, social work etc – even once a week, it leaves a huge impact. I also wish some more physical activity classes in late evening like swimming or indoor football and basketball. Supriya Jain, Artist With schools closed for summer, students can be meaningfully engaged through art, sports, reading and skill-based workshops. These activities nurture creativity, discipline and learning beyond academics. There is indeed a growing need for more structured summer programmes that offer fun, safe and enriching experiences for children and teenagers during the holidays. Joyita Dasgupta, Teacher Speaking from my experience as a middle and secondary school teacher, engaging students meaningfully during summer holidays is important to prevent learning loss, maintain curiosity and support overall development. Children must be presented the opportunity for enrichment with life skills and global awareness. Volunteering will allow them to connect with local community service projects, while entrepreneurial tasks can help them plan small business ideas, like a handmade craft stall or tutoring young peers. Additionally, students can start a summer journal or blog about their experiences or interests. Fatima Khan, Homemaker My children often get bored during summer unless they travel. I wish there were short filmmaking, writing or design camps in malls or schools for reasonable charges. We love learning in creative ways, but it's hard to find such opportunities. And when available, these are often expensive. Summer shouldn't feel like a pause from learning. Ahmed al Balushi, Student Younger students don't always have access to activities outside Muscat. It would be great to have mobile workshops or online clubs run by trained volunteers. We must include teenagers in planning so it's relevant to their interests. Photography, writing or volunteering could shape their thinking and open career paths. Srirupa Mukherjee Thakur, Teacher Instead of going for curated summer camps and activities, I would rather prefer children to read, travel, pick up a hobby or simply discover nature during the summer break. They are already part of a regimented system in schools round the year. Better let them explore and discover themselves!
Muscat Daily
25-06-2025
- Muscat Daily
Art on track: Al Hoota's old train gets vivid makeover
Muscat – In a unique blend of public art and tourism promotion, the out-of-service train at Al Hoota Cave has now been transformed into a vibrant graffiti mural, thanks to the creative vision of Omani street artist Abdulmalik Sultan al Maskari. The 19m-long train, previously installed at the entrance to one of Oman's most iconic natural attractions, now stands as a vivid gateway, adorned with images of the cave's dramatic rock formations and native wildlife. Speaking exclusively to Muscat Daily, Maskari said, 'The idea was not easy at all. The train was long, unused, and the surface was difficult to work on. But I love challenges, so I decided – along with a group of my friends – to turn it into a visual delight that supports national tourism.' The project began on October 10, 2024, and was completed on November 10, 2024. The transformation unfolded over several weekends with support from Maskari's brothers and close friends. Backed by Omran Group – particularly its Youth and Cultural Projects Department – the initiative aimed to enhance the visitor experience by merging art, nature, and culture into one compelling installation. The final artwork draws inspiration from the natural colours and terrain of the cave, encouraging visitors to interact, take photos, and share their experience. 'Graffiti art grabs attention instantly,' Maskari said. 'When visitors see the train, the vivid images spark curiosity. It's an invitation to explore the cave's hidden beauty.' Creating the artwork under Oman's sweltering summer sun posed major challenges. 'Transforming a metal train in that heat was no easy task,' he noted. 'We had to use special tools and materials to ensure that the colours adhered properly to the metal surface. We also coordinated closely with the site's management to avoid disrupting visitors.' Maskari added, 'When we get permission to spray outdoors, there is always a message in the murals. I personally put deep thought into my work. I prefer quiet colours – especially shades of blue – because I want the public to feel calm rather than overwhelmed. Art should relax, not stress.' With his graffiti journey that began in 2007, Maskari has participated in numerous major art initiatives, both locally and abroad. These include creating a large-scale mural in Mina Zayed, UAE, in collaboration with international artists, as well as landmark projects in Oman at hotel W Muscat, Al Mouj Marina, commercial venues, gyms, and various public spaces. He had also taken part in the Frankincense Tree Exhibition at Zubair Foundation. Looking ahead, Maskari hopes this project will inspire a broader movement to promote Oman's diverse landmarks through public art. 'My dream is to expand this initiative to other sites – castles, old souqs, natural reserves – anywhere that showcases the richness of Oman's culture and heritage. Art is a universal language, and through it, we can tell the world about the beauty of our country.' Maskari expressed gratitude to his brothers – Abdulsalam Sultan Said al Maskari and Abdullah Sultan Said al Maskari – and his friends Qusai Ali Saif al Musallami and Saeed Salem Said al Naabi, whose support and dedication were instrumental in bringing the project to life.
