Hatta border hosts Oman's National Day celebration

Dubai: The Oman official and media delegation took part prominently in the celebration held at the Hatta border crossing to mark Oman’s National Day. The delegation was headed by Colonel Matar bin Hamad al Mukhmari, representing the Commander of the North Al Batinah Governorate Police, accompanied by a group of Omani media professionals who attended to cover and participate in the occasion.

This year’s celebration was held under the patronage of Shaikh Mansour bin Ahmed al Maktoum, and witnessed the presence of senior officials from both sides, reflecting the deep-rooted relations and longstanding ties between the Sultanate of Oman and the United Arab Emirates.

The ceremony began with the national anthems of both countries, followed by a military performance by cadets from the Dubai Police Academy. Traditional and poetic segments from the UAE and Oman added a cultural dimension, highlighting the historical bonds shared by the two nations. The event concluded with a group photo that captured the spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect.

Following the ceremony, an Omani media delegation hosted on a special tour across several cultural, urban, and natural destinations within the emirate. The tour offered an immersive experience into Dubai’s architectural diversity, historical roots, and mountain landscapes.

The delegation’s journey in Dubai began at Address Downtown, where the atmosphere of the city immediately unfolded before them. The reflections of Burj Khalifa, the movement of the surrounding streets, and the vibrant energy of the district created a powerful introduction to the city’s dynamic pace.

Inside the hotel, the blend of calm interiors and sweeping city views formed a multi-layered experience. The nighttime skyline—glowing like a vast illuminated canvas—offered visitors a glimpse into Dubai’s stories of transformation, ambition, and modern architectural identity.

At Al Fanar Restaurant, the delegation stepped into a recreated Dubai of the 1960s. The décor, textures, and nostalgic lighting revived an era when life revolved around the creek, trade, and traditional neighborhoods.

Set beside Dubai Creek, the restaurant added a serene backdrop that enhanced the historical atmosphere. Traditional Emirati dishes, presented with authenticity and warmth, immersed visitors in the cultural flavors of early Dubai, reinforcing the Emirate’s journey from heritage to modernity.

Sufrat Maryam introduced a distinct blend of home-style Emirati hospitality within a setting inspired by family warmth. The restaurant’s soft lighting and cultural elements created an inviting space that balanced modern elegance with heritage.

Overlooking the waterfront, the venue offered a calming ambiance that paired beautifully with traditional dishes prepared with a refined touch. The experience evoked the feeling of sharing a meal in an Emirati home, surrounded by comfort, familiarity, and memories rooted in local culinary traditions.

Situated within a restored heritage village in Hatta, Al Hajarain offered a dining atmosphere deeply connected to the surrounding mountains. Its rustic architecture and natural textures created an experience that highlighted the simplicity and authenticity of mountain life.

The peaceful setting made the visit feel like a pause between Dubai’s energetic urban environment and Hatta’s serene natural landscape. The traditional dishes, served in the heart of the mountains, formed a harmonious blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Dubai Frame provided the media team with a symbolic view that united two eras of the city. Rising 150 meters in height and spanning 93 meters in width, the structure itself is designed as an architectural metaphor — a golden frame capturing the transition from old Dubai to its futuristic skyline. From the observation deck, visitors could clearly distinguish the evolution of neighborhoods such as Deira and Bur Dubai on one side, while the soaring towers of Downtown Dubai and beyond represented the city’s modern ambition. The exhibits leading to the top also offered a visual narrative of Dubai’s transformation, enriching the team’s understanding of the Emirate’s rapid development.

Crossing the glass bridge added a touch of thrill, emphasizing Dubai’s pursuit of innovative and immersive experiences. With every step, the transparent walkway revealed a full view of Zabeel Park nearly 150 meters below, creating a sense of suspended excitement. The interactive displays inside the Frame — including projections showcasing Dubai’s future city vision — further highlighted the Emirate’s forward-looking mindset. The stunning contrast between past and present reflected Dubai’s ability to honor its heritage while pushing boundaries in architecture, design, and urban identity.

At Global Village, the delegation walked through a vibrant world of interconnected cultures, where more than 90 pavilions represent countries and regions from across the globe. Each pavilion showcased its own architectural style, traditional crafts, and cultural expressions, offering visitors an immersive experience that blended authenticity with creativity. The lively performances — from folk dances to musical shows — added movement and rhythm to the atmosphere, while the aroma of international cuisines filled the open-air spaces, turning the visit into a sensory journey that celebrated global diversity.

Moving from one pavilion to another felt like traveling across continents within minutes, a feature unique to Global Village’s design. The expansive site, spread across themed zones, allowed the media team to experience cultural showcases, artisanal markets, and interactive installations that highlight the shared human stories behind each nation. The atmosphere of coexistence and mutual appreciation demonstrated the UAE’s role as a global hub for connection and collaboration. The setting also illustrated Dubai’s commitment to creating inclusive cultural platforms that bring communities together in a spirit of creativity and celebration

In Hatta, nature became a central part of the experience. The open landscapes, mountain air, and quiet surroundings transformed Wadi Hub into a refreshing escape from urban life.

The scattered cabins and lodges offered simplicity and tranquility, while outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking provided opportunities for exploration. The natural setting created a sanctuary-like environment where visitors could reconnect with the outdoors in its purest form.