Al-Owtabi Center for Cultural and Heritage Studies

Professor Nidal Al-Shamali
Head of the Al- Owtabi Center for Cultural and Heritage Studies
Tel:
+968 26850103
+968 26850100
Ext: 115 or 660
Email: Alotabi@su.edu.om

Vision:

An international centre for culture, arts and heritage.

Mission:

Preserving and presenting Omani heritage and culture and participating in the center on internal projects in this regard.

Core value:

Re-establishing the socio-cultural legacy of the country to its due status as a major constituent of the intellectual scene and restoring its ties with world cultures.

Al Owtabi Centre will:

  • Preserve Omani culture and tradition and communicate to future generations in a contemporary way.
  • Create cultural experiences for people (Omanis, residents, tourists and international participants) of all ages and also organizations.
  • Develop a centre for researchers to study Omani culture, arts, heritage and traditions.
  • Provide support for young Omani entrepreneurs and researchers in Omani culture, arts and heritage in developing, displaying and presenting their work.
  • Host displays and performances as a major cultural arts venue.
  • Collaborate with national and international partners.

The Al Owtabi Centre Steering Committee will consist of the following:

  • Prof. Nidal Al Shamali – Chair
  • Dr Ali Al Manei – Member (Deputy Chair)
  • Dr Hajer Harrathi – Member
  • Dr Rafik Al Jamosi – Member
  • Dr Abdullah Al Shibli – Member
  • Ms. Sheikha Al Mamari – Member (Secretary)

Committees of the Al-Otbi Center for Cultural and Heritage Studies

Committee of Literature, Criticism, and Language

This committee specializes in studying cultural and heritage topics related to Omani literature, its criticism, language, and their reflections of accents on Omani reality and their historical significance. It also focuses on creating an audiovisual archive of Omani literary heritage that serves as a scholarly resource for researchers. Additionally, the committee suggest various cultural activities in collaboration with the preparatory committee for conferences, forums, and workshops.

Committee of Heritage and History

This focuses on history and heritage, including tangible elements such as buildings, utensils, clothing, cuisine, and other crafts that have been passed down through generations by Omanis. It also includes intangible elements related to ideas, knowledge, arts, practices, customs, ceremonies, folk traditions, and more. Additionally, it encompasses natural elements related to geographical sites and geological formations. The committee aims to develop a plan to collect, document, study, archive, and transform these elements into catalysts for creativity and innovation through scientific activities in collaboration with the preparatory committee for conferences, forums, and workshops.

Committee of Industries and Traditional Crafts

This committee specializes in studying crafts, professions, and traditional industries related to Omani popular culture and its history. It also focuses on creating an archive of Omani craft and industrial heritage that serves as a scholarly resource for researchers. Additionally, the committee proposes scientific activities and events in collaboration with the preparatory committee for conferences, forums, and workshops.

Preparatory Committee for Conferences, Meetings, and Workshops

This committee specializes in preparing, coordinating, and organizing conferences, forums, and workshops related to cultural heritage in all its forms and various related arts, in collaboration with different center committees. The committee also reviews applications submitted by various public and private institutions related to the center’s goals, vision, and mission, to assess their implementation and inclusion in the center’s plan.