SALALAH: The Omani Crafts Forum 'Identity and Extension' opened at Al Haffa Market in the Wilayat of Salalah, bringing together artisans, craft projects and suppliers of traditional craft materials and tools.
Organised by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority, in cooperation with Dhofar Municipality and the Office of the Governor of Dhofar, the forum will run until August 22.
The opening ceremony was held under the auspices of HH Sayyid Marwan bin Turki al Said, Governor of Dhofar, in the presence of officials and representatives of government and private sector institutions in Dhofar.
Held as part of the Khareef Dhofar Season 2026, the forum seeks to showcase the history and development of Omani traditional crafts, highlight inherited manufacturing techniques and promote their preservation as an important component of national cultural identity.
The event features live demonstrations, interactive workshops and displays that give visitors an opportunity to learn about traditional craft techniques and the various stages of producing handicrafts.
It also provides a platform for contemporary artisans and designers to present products inspired by Omani heritage while using modern tools, techniques and design approaches.
The forum brings together traditional craft practitioners, pioneering craft institutions, sector specialists and suppliers of tools and materials. It also features museum displays and an integrated craft environment designed to reflect traditional Omani settings.
Eng Ibrahim bin Said al Kharousi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Heritage, said the forum reflects Oman’s continued efforts to support and develop crafts and craft industries while preserving their authenticity and adapting them to contemporary requirements.
He noted that holding the forum during the Khareef Dhofar Season provides an opportunity to strengthen the presence of Omani crafts during one of Oman’s major tourism seasons and allows visitors to discover an important aspect of Oman’s cultural heritage.
Al Kharousi said the forum brings together a diverse range of traditional crafts and industries in one venue, highlighting the skills and creativity passed down through generations.
He added that the forum’s theme, 'Identity and Extension', reflects the depth and diversity of Oman’s craft heritage while emphasising the importance of preserving, developing and passing these traditions on to future generations.
The forum also supports efforts to integrate innovation with heritage by encouraging emerging artisans and designers to develop contemporary craft products while maintaining their traditional essence, in line with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040. - ONA
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