An Initial Rundown from The Sultanate of Oman’s Pavilion, one month on From The Opening of Expo 2015

Just over a month after the opening of Expo 2015, here is a rundown of proceedings so far from the Sultanate of Oman’s pavilion.

In the first period of Expo 2015, the Sultanate of Oman’s pavilion had more than 570,000 visits. There were over 15,000 visits a day, with an average duration of approximately half an hour. More than 4,500 visitors have got to know the country during over 150 guided tours. There has been all-round satisfaction with the chosen theme for the pavilion, partly because it reflects the values of Expo 2015 and most importantly because it tells the story of an unusual, unknown country that sees water and its agricultural traditions as an asset to preserve and a driver of sustainable development.

“Heritage in Harvest: Harnessing the sea, sun and sand” is the theme. It spans four areas representing water, oases, the sea and traditions, so it perfectly encapsulates Oman.

Under Harnessing every drop of water Oman will introduce its strong tradition in the management of water resources. From khareef, the summer monsoon crossing the Indian Ocean, whose influence seasonal makes the lush desert region of Dhofar making possible the cultivation of Boswelia that gives rise incense and feeds the Aflaj, ancient irrigation system size d a dense network of canals and dams dating back over 2,000 years ago inscribed as a World Heritage Site. The country is continuously working to increase its self-sufficiency in food production in a sustainable way and this is the central theme of the pavilion because there can be no life without water.

The second section Our rich farming heritage will cover agriculture, with its crops for the local population and export. From honey to hazelnut, crops rose in the mountainous region of Jebel Akhdar the history of food production in Oman is unique. It is the story of a country that combines technological innovation and sustainable development made unique by the harmony of a Mediterranean climate and tropical. Date palms, heart of the Omani agricultural tradition, will be the center of this section with the project “a million palm trees” which should be completed in 2025.

In the third section Treasures of our seas, visitors can learn about the rich marine environments and the fishing industry, which is still based on traditional techniques. The country, which has declared an intention to double the proceeds of fishing within the next 30 years, is already involved in the activation of new regulations for the protection of marine areas and encouraging fishing for native species.

The fourth section Welcome to our home will showcase the authentic and friendly Omani hospitality with the ritual of coffee and dates and sharing tasty and spicy inside the sablat, the room of the typical Omani house where the family welcomes guests at parties. The area also features a typical local cuisine, with all the ingredients and utensils needed to prepare traditional dishes.

At the end of their visits, guests can take it easy on one of the most stunning terraces at Expo 2015 as they savour some traditional Omani dishes and coffee. Every day, more than 800 people gladly succumb to the temptation of the delights on offer in the restaurant and the juice bar. The flavours and aromas that come from afar bear witness to the indissoluble bond between Oman and its traditions.