Oman to Shine as Guest of Honour at Doha International Book Fair
Muscat, The Gulf Observer: In a testament to the enduring cultural bonds between nations, the Sultanate of Oman is poised to take center stage as the esteemed guest of honour at the forthcoming 33rd edition of the Doha International Book Fair, scheduled to unfold from May 9 to May 18, 2024.
Representatives from various esteemed Omani institutions, including the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, the Ministry of Information, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs, Sultan Qaboos University, as well as prominent civil society entities such as the “Omani Society for Writers and Literati” and the “Memory of Oman National Cultural Centre,” will converge to showcase Oman’s rich literary and cultural tapestry.
Themed “Knowledge Builds Civilisations,” the book fair promises to be a veritable treasure trove of intellectual exchange, featuring over 180,000 titles curated by 515 publishing houses hailing from 42 countries.
Sayyid Said Sultan Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth for Culture, articulated that Oman’s prominent role as the guest of honour underscores the profound cultural ties shared with the State of Qatar. He expressed enthusiasm for the event, highlighting its role in illuminating visitors about Oman’s multifaceted cultural heritage and achievements.
The design of Oman’s pavilion at the book fair draws inspiration from the majestic Al Alam Palace, incorporating its captivating architectural elements and artistic embellishments, enhancing the allure of the exhibition space.
Adding a melodic dimension to the cultural extravaganza, the Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra (OCO) is set to enthrall attendees with a series of captivating performances at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre.
The Omani pavilion will host three distinct exhibitions, each offering unique insights into Oman’s heritage and accomplishments. From promoting the nation’s scenic, cultural, and historical landmarks to showcasing rare Omani manuscripts and hosting a collaborative photography exhibition with the Qatar Photography Society, the pavilion promises to be a captivating exploration of Omani culture.
Furthermore, visitors can explore a diverse array of products from participating government institutions, experience cutting-edge virtual reality (VR) technology, and engage with exhibits celebrating the World List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
As anticipation mounts and preparations reach fruition, the Sultanate of Oman eagerly anticipates sharing its cultural legacy and fostering meaningful exchanges at the esteemed Doha International Book Fair.
