SALALAH: The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Youth, in collaboration with the Office of the Governor of Dhofar, has completed preparations for the 12th Omani Song Festival, scheduled to take place from August 11 to 14 at Al Marooj Theatre in Dhofar Governorate.
The festival aims to highlight and nurture Omani singing talent, showcasing their artistic abilities while fostering cooperation between government agencies and the private sector to enhance cultural and artistic aspects. This year's festival will also continue its tradition of rotating across different governorates in Oman.
A total of 33 contestants competed in the preliminary round, with six advancing to the finals. The finalists are Omar Al Hasani, Abdul Aziz bin Ajeeb bin Arfa Bait Kalib, Hamed Suhail, Nahla Al Mukhainiya, Aisha bint Hafez, and Saif Al Gharabi.
Sayyid Saeed bin Sultan Al Busaidi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Youth for Culture and Chairman of the Festival's Main Committee, affirmed the Ministry’s readiness for the festival's return after a seven-year gap. He noted that the choice of Dhofar for this year's event highlights the governorate's appeal, particularly with its autumn weather during the summer months.
Sayyid Saeed emphasised that the festival reflects the Ministry’s commitment to supporting youth talent in various artistic domains, aligning with Oman Vision 2040’s cultural strategy to bolster artistic production. He acknowledged the festival’s significant impact on the artistic scene since its inception in 1994, enhancing the international recognition of Omani artists.
Artist Khalid Al Sheikh praised the Ministry’s efforts in organizing the festival, stressing its role in promoting Omani music within the Gulf region and beyond. He highlighted the event's importance for aspiring singers and its contribution to the evolution of the Omani cultural scene.
Poet Saeed bin Mohammed Al Saqlawi noted the festival’s importance as a cultural platform for lyricists, singers, composers, and musical groups, providing valuable opportunities for artistic expression and competition. He described the festival as a unique artistic phenomenon that continues the legacy of pioneering Omani musicians such as Hamad Halis Al Sanani Al Suri and Salem Rashid Al Suri.
The main arbitration committee for the festival includes artist Khaled Al Sheikh, artist Fayez Al Saeed, and poet Saeed Al Saqlawi. - ONA
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