Arabic and South Asian Cultural Exchange Explored Omani Culture

In April, the ASA was privileged to be invited to a wonderful presentation at the Sultan Qaboos Cultural Center, featuring the culture of Oman. We were cordially greeted by Ms. Hiba Abdulkhaliq, Senior Program Officer, her colleague Ms. Halima Al Balushi, Executive Director Majid Al Khalili, and the Center’s librarian, Walid Sellal.

After a short introduction in the well-stocked library, which is open to the public, we viewed many items of Omani culture, ranging from clothing and jewelry, to models of medieval forts and ships. These showed the many facets of this fascinating country through the centuries. We also saw gift packages of various Omani exports, exotic perfumes, and beautifully crafted items made from silver and other precious metals.

Director Al Khalili explained Omani culture and traditions. We were then honored by being greeted by Ms. Sabra Ahmed Al Houti, the Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman who spoke about Omani-American relations and provided a brief history of that relationship. The event ended with attendees receiving a small gift of frankincense and enjoying a sumptuous lunch which included a special Omani Halwa dessert, flavored with Cardamom and Rose Water. It was a very special morning!