UAE-Oman Forum Brings Young Artists Together
Muscat — A shared celebration of art, culture, and youth creativity marked the recent UAE-Oman Youth Arts Forum, hosted by the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in the Sultanate of Oman in collaboration with the Bait Al Zubair Foundation. Held at Bait Al Zubair in Muscat, the forum brought together a dynamic group of young artists from both countries to showcase paintings, sculptures, and photographs reflecting a deep-rooted connection and mutual respect between Emirati and Omani cultures.
The opening ceremony witnessed the presence of Shaikh Mohammed bin Maktoum bin Rashid al Maktoum, UAE Ambassador to Oman, and Zubair bin Mohammed al Zubair, Vice-Chairman of the Zubair Corporation.
Quote from Shaikh Mohammed bin Maktoum: “The forum highlights the deep cultural connections and shared heritage between the UAE and Oman.”
He also shared appreciation for Bait Al Zubair and its partner universities, applauding their role in nurturing young talent and reinforcing the region’s creative landscape. He emphasized the UAE’s continued commitment to the arts and youth through national programmes and cultural initiatives.
Dr Mona al Salmi, Director-General of Bait Al Zubair, commented on the event’s wider goal of sparking an artistic dialogue. She emphasized the forum as a “platform for dialogue and creative exchange among young talents,” with more than 100 artworks presented. Discussions and interactive workshops for students and artists are set to continue over the coming days, she noted.
Omani student Manal al Habsi from Sultan Qaboos University showcased modern ink drawings inspired by traditional jewellery and patterns.
Quote from Manal al Habsi: “Participating in this forum meant more than just displaying my work. It was an opportunity to present our Omani identity in a contemporary way and to understand how art can unite people across borders.”
From the UAE, Wadeema al Dhanhani of United Arab Emirates University displayed a painting inspired by Emirati heritage.
Quote from Wadeema al Dhanhani: “My work reflects pride in my country’s heritage and my joy in participating in an event that allows me to share the UAE’s culture, celebrating creativity and friendship between the two nations.”
The Youth Arts Forum served as a powerful reminder of how art transcends borders, fostering understanding and cooperation among the youth of the Arab Gulf region. Through a shared vision of creativity, the event highlights the enduring friendship between the UAE and Oman.
Team V.DIR-EM-UAE
