In 2012, she became the first Omani poet to publish a collection in German, titled Schönheit des Herzens (Beauty of the Heart). This milestone not only marked her international debut but also laid the groundwork for her evolving role as a cultural ambassador for Oman, using poetry and art to amplify Omani voices on the global stage.
Lubna al Balushi’s work is defined by its ability to transcend borders and languages, uniting people through shared human experiences. Fluent in Arabic, English, German and Balochi, she crafts poetry that celebrates the richness of Oman’s heritage while fostering understanding across diverse cultures. Her journey has seen her emerge as a key figure in cultural dialogue, seamlessly weaving Omani traditions into the fabric of international conversations.
Her latest publication, Faces from the Land of Tolerance (2024), launched at the Muscat International Book Fair, exemplifies this approach. A collaborative effort with German photographer Anja Menzel, the book marries visual artistry with poetry to depict Oman’s landscapes and cultural identity, emphasising themes of acceptance and community. It’s a vivid reminder of her commitment to showcasing Oman’s story through innovative, cross-disciplinary projects.
Beyond her books, Lubna’s voice resonates through her participation in literary festivals, cultural events and community initiatives. She has appeared at Arab Cultural Week in Hamburg and the Heart to Heart readings in Oman, transforming poetry into a means of fostering empathy and dialogue. Her work has garnered international attention, with features in media outlets such as Switzerland’s Neue Zürcher Zeitung and her exhibitions have been held at prominent venues in Muscat, including Bait Al Baranda and Bait Al Zubair.
Lubna’s influence extends into academia as well. She collaborates with Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) to develop educational programmes that explore poetry’s role in nurturing empathy, emotional intelligence and cultural awareness. To her, poetry is more than art; it is a powerful tool for social cohesion and personal transformation.
Looking to the future, Lubna envisions a global ‘Poetry Tour’ that goes beyond mere readings. She hopes to create vibrant platforms for intercultural exchange, where words serve as bridges — connecting not just continents, but hearts and minds. Her aim is to demonstrate poetry’s relevance in today’s interconnected world, fostering conversations that cross boundaries and build understanding.
Her dedication to cultural preservation is evident through her involvement with initiatives supported by Unesco to safeguard intangible cultural heritage. She remains committed to elevating Oman’s traditional artistry on the international stage, ensuring that the nation’s voice endures amidst global discourse.
As she prepares to release new collections — like her forthcoming Once Upon a Heart, which explores nostalgia and the voice within — it is clear that Lubna sees poetry as a universal language. Her work encourages reflection and connection, reminding us all of the enduring power of words to inspire, heal and unite.
Through her poetry and cultural initiatives, Lubna al Balushi continues to demonstrate that the art of storytelling can serve as a vital bridge — linking diverse backgrounds and fostering a deeper understanding of our shared humanity.
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