NIZWA, MARCH 14
The Directorate of Endowments and Religious Affairs in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate held the fourth edition of 'Taaruf Nizwa' in Nizwa.
Organised under the auspices of Shaikh Sultan bin Hilal al Alawi, Wali of Izki, the event aimed to introduce the values of Islam and foster cultural understanding among non-Muslim residents of Al Dakhiliyah.
The gathering offered an open space for dialogue and interaction, allowing visitors to learn about Islamic teachings and Omani culture. Conversations with new Muslims highlighted personal journeys of discovering Islam.
Yusef from Kenya said his first encounter with Islam came after visiting a mosque in Oman. “I was inspired by the humility and devotion of Muslims in prayer. My conversion has been a path of light in worship,” he shared. Yusef added that Oman offered him “a sense of calm and spiritual comfort.”
Sulaiman, who embraced Islam five months ago, learned about the religion through a friend and social media. “What inspired me most was the love and brotherhood among Muslims. Islam connected me to humanitarian values,” he said.
British participant Uzma Alnaji spoke about rediscovering Islam through personal study. “What touched me most was the position of women in Islam and how the religion honours them. Understanding Islam deeply gave me safety and peace,” she said.
Sarah Kangwa, a recent convert, explained that research and curiosity sparked her journey. “Islam’s belief in one God inspired me. Praying five times a day has brought greater spiritual balance to my life,” she said.
Participants from Myanmar also shared their experiences and expressed appreciation for Oman’s welcoming environment.
Said bin Sulaiman al Kindi, Head of the Introduction to Islam and Cultural Exchange Section, said the event aims to present Islam’s core values of mercy, tolerance, and mutual respect while promoting cultural exchange.
The event featured an exhibition on Omani culture, traditional dress, and multilingual informational materials about Islam. It concluded with a traditional Ramadhan Iftar, fostering friendship and dialogue. Several women embraced Islam after learning more about the faith and interacting with participants.
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