The National Museum in Muscat has recently unveiled a new exhibition entitled “Wilayat Sur in the Memory of Postage Stamps,” which will be open to the public until 14 November 2024. This exhibition, launched in honor of Sur being named the Arab Tourism Capital for 2024, offers a captivating exploration of the history and culture of Sur as depicted through postage stamps. The event was inaugurated by Dr Yahya bin Badr Al Maawali, the Governor of South Al Sharqiyah, and features 16 collections of postage stamps that highlight key moments in Sur’s past, including traditional crafts, maritime heritage, and iconic symbols. Many of the stamps on display come from the personal collection of Abdullah bin Saeed Al Saadi, a dedicated philatelist and member of the Friends of Oman Museums.
One of the focal points of the exhibition is the 1996 stamp series dedicated to Omani ships, particularly the renowned “Ghanja” vessels that were integral to Indian Ocean trade and exemplify Sur’s shipbuilding tradition. Other noteworthy stamps include the “Al Khanjar Al Souri” stamp from 2001, which showcases the artistry of Sur’s dagger craftsmanship, as well as the 2023 “Omani Writing Alphabet” stamp, which highlights Oman’s maritime legacy and cultural heritage. Additionally, the “Omani Falaj” stamp celebrates the art of water management, with Falaj Al Jila, a UNESCO World Heritage site, being prominently featured. The exhibition also includes rare manuscripts like “The Mineral of Secrets in Marine Sciences” by Omani navigator Nasser bin Ali Al Khadhuri, offering insights into Sur’s deep maritime knowledge.
During the exhibition’s opening ceremony, Dr Fatima bint Mohammed Al Balushi, Director General of Museum Affairs at the National Museum, underscored the significance of postage stamps in connecting Oman’s history with the global community. She noted that each stamp tells a story of its era, and expressed gratitude for the chance to share this curated collection from Abdullah Al Saadi, which sheds light on Sur’s rich history. Al Balushi also highlighted the benefits of joining the “Friends of Oman Museums” membership, which provides exclusive perks like free entry to museum events and training opportunities geared towards increasing public engagement with Oman’s cultural heritage.
Speaking on behalf of Oman Post, Al Saadi emphasized how postage stamps serve as “ambassadors” of Oman’s history, showcasing the nation’s achievements and cultural beauty to the world. He explained that the inspiration for the exhibition came from the stamps issued by Oman Post to honor Sur, which showcase the region’s landmarks and heritage. Through its thoughtful displays, the National Museum’s latest exhibition invites visitors to delve into Oman’s narrative through the lens of postage stamps, offering insights into the country’s enduring maritime legacy and cultural development.
