MUSCAT:The Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in the Sultanate of Oman, in collaboration with Bait Al Zubair Foundation, hosted the UAE-Oman Youth Arts Forum recently at Bait Al Zubair in Muscat. The event brought together young artists from both countries to showcase their paintings, sculptures, and photographs that celebrate culture, creativity, and friendship between the UAE and Oman.
The opening ceremony was attended by Shaikh Mohammed bin Maktoum bin Rashid al Maktoum, UAE Ambassador to Oman, and Zubair bin Mohammed al Zubair, Vice-Chairman of the Zubair Corporation.
In his speech, Shaikh Mohammed said, "The forum highlights the deep cultural connections and shared heritage between the UAE and Oman.” He expressed gratitude to Bait Al Zubair and all partner universities for nurturing young talents and enhancing the creative landscape in both nations. He also mentioned the UAE's ongoing support for the arts and youth through new cultural initiatives and national programmes.
Dr Mona al Salmi, Director-General of Bait Al Zubair, described the event as a platform for dialogue and creative exchange among young talents. She mentioned that the forum featured over one hundred works of art and would continue for two more days with discussions and workshops for students and artists.
From Oman, Manal al Habsi, a student at Sultan Qaboos University, showcased modern ink drawings inspired by traditional Omani jewellery and patterns. “Participating in this forum meant more than just displaying my work,” she said. “It was an opportunity to present our Omani identity in a contemporary way and to understand how art can unite people across borders.”
Among the participants, Wadeema al Dhanhani, from United Arab Emirates University, presented a painting inspired by Emirati heritage and national symbols. She expressed that her work reflects pride in her country’s heritage and her joy in participating in an event that allows her to share the UAE’s culture, celebrating creativity and friendship between the two nations.
The Youth Arts Forum showcased how art continues to unite people, fostering friendship and understanding between the two nations through creativity and a shared vision.
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