An entrepreneur's delight

Blended with heritage and modernity, the Muscat Nights is a platform for entertainment, learning and product marketing. The festival draws people from across the country to the historic and modern city of Muscat, where they love to enjoy the festivities during the nice winter months. The festival takes place from mid-January to early February each year.

The Heritage Village is the main attraction at the Muscat Nights. Despite being smaller than in previous years, the village has been reconfigured with better technology and is operated by Omani youth.

Muscat Municipality is offering a unique experience that aligns with the cultural identity and heritage of the Sultanate of Oman. The Muscat Nights has become a platform for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Oman.

At Al Naseem Park, SME entrepreneurs can engage with incubators, and there is a tent dedicated to supporting SME operators through consumer exhibitions. Private projects and self-employment are at the forefront, with Omani business owners showcasing various projects that demonstrate their willingness to pursue business management through starting small and growing.

Salem al Ghamari, owner of the Al Hara Ice Cream project, operates a mobile cart that sells ice cream in different flavours. Despite the challenges he faced participating in the festival, he was able to become an active member of the Heritage Village through his efforts.

Wafaa al Maawali, owner of the Al Wafa Crystal project for incense and perfumes, said, "I am pleased with my participation in the festival for the first time. My project has a great demand for incense products and has received a positive response from both Omanis and non-Omanis." She added, "We aim to introduce these Omani products, even if we don't see sales, as it is our pleasure to introduce them to a large audience."

The festival aims to harness the skills and energy of volunteers in organising and making the events successful by showcasing the capabilities of productive families and business owners on different display platforms throughout the Muscat Nights activities. This also involves SMEs and entrepreneurs in events and activities.

Omani youth keep pace with time, adhere to their national identity and participate in sustainable development through ideas and initiatives that stimulate domestic tourism and productivity, which is what the Muscat Nights highlighted in its appearance this year.

@Afrahalbalushia