GENEVA: Oman unveiled a captivating exhibition titled Cultural Exchange: From Oman to the World. Held from July 8 to 17 in Geneva, the exhibition celebrates Omani heritage, creativity, and global dialogue through an immersive cultural showcase.

Organized by the Permanent Delegation of the Sultanate of Oman to the United Nations and International Organizations in Geneva, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, and the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, and in cooperation with WIPO, the exhibition offers a dynamic glimpse into Oman’s cultural and creative landscape.

Sponsored by H.E. Dr. Saleh bin Saeed Masn, Undersecretary for Commerce and Industry, and H.E. Hassan Kulaib, Deputy Director General of WIPO, the event highlights Oman’s intangible cultural heritage, traditional arts, and investment potential in creative industries.

Speaking at the inauguration, H.E. Ambassador Idris bin Abdulrahman Al-Khanjari, Permanent Representative of Oman in Geneva, described the exhibition as “a journey of Omani culture, presenting it to the world in its beauty, diversity, and authenticity.” He emphasized culture as a powerful bridge for dialogue and understanding between nations.

Echoing this sentiment, H.E. Dr. Masn hailed the exhibition as a tribute to Oman’s enduring traditions and a testament to the Omani spirit of innovation. He spotlighted the country’s UNESCO-recognized intangible heritage, traditional music, fine arts, women’s attire, and Omani hospitality as symbols of national identity and pride.

WIPO’s Deputy Director General H.E. Hassan Kulaib praised Oman’s cultural legacy and its growing role in promoting intellectual property awareness. He highlighted successful joint initiatives like the Omani Frankincense Project and the National Intellectual Property Strategy, underscoring their contribution to national economic development.

WIPO Director General H.E. Daren Tang also visited the exhibition, engaging with organizers and exploring displays that celebrated Omani culture through multimedia, fashion, music, and crafts.

The exhibition features an Intangible Cultural Heritage Corner with UNESCO-listed elements brought to life through photographs and innovative video storytelling. A Cultural and Creative Industries section showcases Oman’s modern development in the arts, while a live music corner features performances on the oud and qanun. The Traditional Women’s Fashion display presents diverse regional attire, highlighting Oman’s deep-rooted identity and aesthetics.