The National Museum recently organized a cultural evening at the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, titled “Omani Cultural Evening.” The event was held in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman in Moscow, and the State Hermitage Museum. This event was part of Oman’s participation as the guest of honour at the 27th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, which took place from June 5 to 8. The event was also part of the “Oman Hall” initiative, inaugurated at the Hermitage Museum in 2020, with the second edition titled “The Omani Empire: Asia and Africa,” opening in December 2023.
The Omani delegation was led by Qais Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion. On the Russian side, it was headed by Maxim Gennadievich Reshetnikov, Minister of Economic Development of the Russian Federation. Jamal Hassan Al Moosawi, Secretary General of the National Museum, mentioned in his speech that the relationship between the National Museum and the State Hermitage Museum goes beyond strategic cooperation to true friendship. He highlighted that this event was part of the “Oman Hall” initiative, with the theme “The Omani Empire: Asia and Africa,” reflecting equitable and fair development opportunities for nations and peoples, the main theme of the 27th forum.
The cultural evening included performances by the Omani musical group “Skills,” led by Yusuf Said Al Foori. Guests also had the opportunity to tour the “Oman Hall” and view the “Omani Empire: Asia and Africa” exhibition, showcasing the history of the Omani Empire in Asia and Africa. The exhibition featured 28 artifacts, including items from Sultan Qaboos bin Said and artifacts from the Russian Federation. Notable pieces included a curved single-edged sword “Kittarah” believed to have been used in duels aboard Omani Empire fleets, a Saidi dagger from the late 19th century, a chair from the 18th century (Oman and Zanzibar), and jewelry and garments attributed to Sayyida Salma bint Said al-Busaidi, author of “Memoirs of an Arabian Princess from Zanzibar.”
During the economic forum, an agreement was signed with the State Hermitage Museum to launch the second “Hermitage Corner” exhibition at the National Museum in October. This exhibition will focus on exchanges between Central Asian khanates and the Russian imperial court in St. Petersburg. The Hermitage Museum is known for its vast collection of artifacts from various civilizations, including Western Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. It attracts approximately 5.3 million visitors annually and houses over 17,000 paintings, 12,000 sculptures, and a wide range of other archaeological artifacts.
The event was attended by various dignitaries, such as the Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to the Russian Federation, the Chairman of Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the General Director of the State Hermitage Museum, as well as members of the diplomatic corps and cultural enthusiasts. The National Museum’s “Oman Hall” initiative aims to showcase Omani history and culture in museums and cultural institutions worldwide, promoting cultural understanding and communication between Oman and other countries.
In conclusion, the cultural evening at the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg was a successful event that showcased the rich history and culture of the Sultanate of Oman. Through the “Oman Hall” initiative, the National Museum continues to promote cultural cooperation and understanding on an international level, providing a comprehensive view of Oman’s rich heritage. The collaboration between Oman and Russia at the event highlighted the importance of cultural exchanges in fostering positive relationships between nations and peoples. With the continued success of such events, the National Museum hopes to further enhance Oman’s presence in the global cultural landscape.
