MUSCAT, Dec 29 - The countdown has almost begun for the commencement of the annual cultural extravaganza, Muscat Festival. The renovation works are progressing at a frenetic pace at the two major venues — Naseem Gardens and Al Amerat Gardens — where the festival will begin on January 10. Speaking to the Observer, Ali bin Khalfan al Hasani, Assistant Chairman of the Media Committee of the Muscat Festival, said the latest edition of the festival will be unique in its own way with a “good line-up of socio-cultural events” catering to one and all.
“We have lined up infotainment events catering to the tastes of visitors of diverse nationalities. This includes a popular singer and his band from India flying in just to entertain the festival visitors at the City Amphitheatre in Qurum,” said Al Hasani. “The events to be held will be new and innovative. A number of popular artistes, troupes and features will make it different from the past. It will be a treat for families from all over the world,” he said. He said a friendly cricket match between Oman and Indian teams will be an “adrenaline-pumping event” to be held at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Bausher during the festival.
“The friendly match between Omani and Indian cricket teams will be one of the few attractions of the festival. We are expecting an overwhelming feedback.” The festival, which will run until February 9, will be open for public from 4 pm to 11 pm on weekdays and up to midnight on weekends. Some days have been set aside for families and women. The entry fee for adults is 200 baisas and for children 100 baisas. “Naseem Gardens and Al Amerat Garden, which had been closed since December 2 for renovation, are fast getting ready to host the largest festival for socio-cultural understanding and gastronomic delights in Oman,” said Al Hasani.
All logistics support and advertising at the festival will be provided by the Muscat Municipality. A literary cafe along with a Book Corner and 2nd International Conference, titled ‘Thought and role in building awareness in the Arabian Gulf region’, are some of the events that will host literary experts from across the world. ‘Salim Bahwan Award for Short Films’ will identify and recognise the best short film personalities.
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