Oman National Day: A Celebration of Heritage and Vision

Article by Assia Hamdi- Intern

November 18th, marks the National Day of the Sultanate of Oman, a day central to the national identity of Oman. This day not only marks the rebirth of Oman, but the Birthday of the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said, who ascended to the throne in 1970. Sultan Qaboos saw a visionary Oman, taking the traditional tranquillity of the country to a vibrant, progressive state that is respected on the global stage. Sultan Qaboos’ vision for Oman was clear: He sought to create a nation that balanced modernisation with the preservation of its rich cultural heritage. The intertwining of Sultan Qaboos’ birthday and Oman’s National Day, represents the very heart of Oman’s spirit. Melding of the traditional past of Oman with the moment the visionary leader changed the trajectory of Oman through innovation and a progressive future. 

The British Omani Society Celebrates Across the UK

This year as Oman celebrated its 54th National Day, the British Omani Society has been busy participating and revelling in the festivities this glorious day brings. The celebrations have highlighted the unique and enduring ties between the United Kingdom and the Sultanate of Oman. Over the decades, the relationship between Omanis and the British has not only withstood the test of time but has also chosen to adapt and find opportunities together. 

The Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman invites the British Omani Society

The reception organised by the Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman, Bader Mohammed Bader Al Mantheri and the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman, London showcased the everlasting dedication to keeping meaningful bilateral relationships strong. 

The Dorchester, London on Tuesday, 19 November 2024.

Oman Vision 2040 and National Heritage

The celebrations and spirit of the 54th National Day tied in perfectly with the national priorities of Oman Vision 2040. The national goals of ‘Highlighting the Citizenship, Identity and National Heritage and Culture of Oman,’ has threaded across the range of national day events. The hospitality of the Omani’s has been ever present as these events foster understanding and immersion into Omani culture. Throughout these events, the Oman Vision 2040 emphasis on enhancing cultural diplomacy and expanding Oman’s international presence has strengthened the cultural ties between the two nations.  

Cultural Culinary Experience

The reception provided guests with a cultural culinary experience that connects Omanis connected to their past and each other. The Shuwa, a traditional stand-out Omani dish, consisted of slow-cooked lamb, marinated with a blend of spices and herbs, on a bed of rice. This dish requires hours of preparation and represents a commitment to communal dining, bringing people together in the spirit of sharing and celebration

Omani Student National Day, Manchester

 

Oman Vision 2040, places youth at the core of the country’s development strategy, viewing the next generation as the country's future leaders and game changers. The British Omani Society was honoured to be a Gold Sponsor for the wonderful extravaganza of the Omani Student National Day, celebrating the 54th Oman National Day.

Youth: The Importance of the Omani next Generation

This event was meticulously organised by driven and visionary students from Omani students society in Manchester, Liverpool Omani Student Society and Leeds Omani Society. The day was enriched with captivating music, soulful instrumentals, live art, heartfelt poetry, and recitations of the Quran, all of which beautifully showcased the spirit, creativity, and passion of the Omani youth in the UK. 

Traditional Dress Showcase

The day allowed Omani students studying away from home to reflect on their heritage, whilst also preserving and promoting Oman's cultural identity. One of the splendid ways, the Omani students did this was through their traditional dress. The tradition served not only as a celebration of Oman's heritage but as a statement of pride in the country’s unique identity.  It was incredibly promising to see the potential of Omani youth and the way they create and use opportunities bringing the vision of Oman 2040 to life, internationally.

Omani Student Association in London at the British Omani Society

The National Day celebrations don’t end there, we look forward to hosting the Omani Student Association in London, on the 6th of December.

The National Day celebrations, whether held in Oman or across the globe, are a reminder of what Oman has achieved and the promising future that lies ahead. The British Omani Society is honoured to participate in celebrating the shared heritage and vision of an Oman committed to progress and peace.