SUR: The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT), joined countries worldwide in celebrating World Tourism Day on September 27, themed “Tourism and Peace.” This year's theme emphasizes the significance of tourism in promoting global peace and enhancing mutual understanding among nations.
In celebration of World Tourism Day and as part of the executive program for Sur as the Arab Capital Tourism for 2024, the Ministry organized the White Sails event at the Dhow Factory in Sur, Al Sharqiyah South Governorate, on September 27 and 28, 2024.
The event aimed to highlight the maritime heritage of the region and its pioneering navigational role in promoting a culture of peace through civilizational communication and trade exchanges with various countries over different eras. The event was inaugurated by Talib bin Khamis al Balushi, a member of the Shura Council representing Sur.
The event featured various activities aimed at introducing visitors to aspects of the region's heritage and the craft of shipbuilding. Key highlights included the Sails and Theatre which hosted performances of traditional arts, and a seminar titled 'Cultural Tourism Exchange and its Relation to Global Peace'; Attendees participated in hands-on experiences and workshops on traditional shipbuilding and sail-making. Additionally, the Dhow Cinema showcased films highlighting the significance of tourism, while the Dhow Gallery displayed artifacts and images narrating the maritime history of the region and its connections with various countries
worldwide.
The event was held at the Dhow Factory, located along the shores of Khor al Batah, which houses the Dhow Gallery. This gallery features different sections dedicated to the craft of traditional ship and boat making. Visitors to the factory had the opportunity to learn about the construction of Omani ships and boats and view photographs of sailors and shipbuilders from Sur.
The Sultanate of Oman is distinguished by its long coastline from which the white Omani sails, symbolizing freedom and peace, have set forth to all other nations with love and goodwill.
The White Sails event focused on a series of activities aimed at introducing the maritime cultural heritage of Sur and its relationship with local and international communities, as well as the cultural and civilizational exchange between countries through the white sails, or traditional boats; These sails served as a promotion for the Sultanate of Oman and were an important tool for fostering peace and stability.
This year, the celebration of World Tourism Day, themed Tourism and Peace, reflects the economic, cultural, and social impacts of tourism and its role in enhancing mutual understanding and fruitful cooperation among communities and nations. The initiatives proposed for this year focus on promoting peace through tourism, viewing it as an effective means to bridge gaps between peoples and cultures, thereby fostering mutual understanding, tolerance, and sustainable development. This includes utilizing tourism as a tool for achieving sustainable economic growth, particularly through supporting youth and promoting innovation and entrepreneurship in the tourism sector. Additionally, education and training opportunities are being provided to youth in the field of tourism to ensure the continuity of positive development in this sector.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
