MUSCAT – Oman has been named Guest of Honour in recognition of its growing cinematic movement and its efforts to support cultural and creative industries. The festival runs until 14 November in the Moroccan capital.’
The opening ceremony featured a special tribute to Omani cinema, attended by His Excellency Khalid bin Salem Bamkhalif, Oman’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Morocco, who stated that the Sultanate’s participation reflects the deep-rooted fraternal ties and long-standing historical relations between the two nations. He added that the event demonstrates their shared commitment to strengthening ongoing cultural and artistic cooperation.
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His Excellency noted that Oman’s participation, represented by the Oman Cinema Society, aligns with the country’s broader efforts to promote cultural diplomacy as part of the Oman Vision 2040 strategy — using art and cinema as platforms for dialogue and cultural exchange between nations.
Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Ajmi, Chairman of the Oman Cinema Society, described Oman’s participation as a significant milestone in Arab cultural cooperation.
“We are proud that Omani cinema is present at this prestigious festival, which brings together creative talents from around the world,” he said. “It is an opportunity to showcase the Omani cinematic experience and to strengthen cultural partnership between the Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of Morocco, under a shared belief in the power of art to build human connections.”
The Oman Cinema Society is presenting a diverse programme that includes film screenings, panel discussions, and workshops. Omani director Ahmed Al Hadhari is serving on the international jury, while the film “The Unknown” by director Mohammed Al-Kindi represents Oman in the official competition.
As part of the festival’s activities, an Omani Film Night will feature six films showcasing new creative voices in Omani cinema. The event will also include a seminar on Omani–Moroccan cinematic relations, a presentation of the “Make Your Film in Oman” initiative, and a research paper on sociology exploring cultural connections between the two countries.
Oman’s participation highlights the growing stature of Omani cinema in international arenas and reaffirms the Sultanate’s ongoing commitment to advancing its creative industries, empowering national talent, and strengthening Oman’s cultural presence on the regional and global cinematic map.
