#what desert is in oman

[indecisiveavocado]

Some notes on the name Palestine

TL;DR: Palestine is a colonialist name from a group trying to deny an indigenous group's indigenousness as part of a genocidal campaign. It may have acquired other meanings, but the etymology is still linked tightly to that, and it still carries that past with it. Anyone who considers themselves pro-indigenous should not use the term.

Let's rewind. The word Palestine is related to "Philistine"; indeed, it comes from them. So who were they?

In short, a bunch of Greeks who created a syncretic culture in what is now, roughly, Gaza. They mixed with the native people, called Canaanites. (We don't know what they called themselves - Philistine itself derives from a Biblical term.)

They vanished pretty fast, and then, a while later, the Romans came.

The indigenous population rebelled too much, so they embarked on a campaign of genocide. They killed people, of course. But they also raped enough women that Judaism is matrilineal. They sold people as slaves, barred them from their holy city and capital, Jerusalem (which they renamed). They destroyed the Jewish holy temple, the Second Temple (there is now a mosque on top of it).

And then they tried to deny that the indigenous population was, in fact, indigenous. They renamed the region Syria Palestina. Why? Because Philistines weren't around anymore. They could pretend there weren't any indigenous people to displace.

Over time, that word, Palestina, moved. It moved to Arabic, where it became Filastin. It moved to English, where it became Palestine.

But the indigenous name for the region (except, arguably, for Gaza, give or take) has never been Palestine.

We don't know what the Neanderthals, the first group there, called it.

But we know what many of the indigenous people call it. Eretz Yisrael. Or, in English, the Land of Israel.

("But wait!" you say. "You just said that in Arabic it was Filastin. Palestinians are native and speak Arabic!"

But they didn't speak Arabic back then. Arabic came with the Arab conquerers (who Palestinians aren't super related to, FYI). Arabs spread vastly during the Islamic conquests, but before that, they were primarily a desert people, whose homeland corresponded to roughly Saudi Arabia, although it extended to places like Syria and Oman. There are majority-Arab countries and places today that range from Morocco to Mauritania, Sudan to Iraq, Egypt to (parts of) Iran. Arabs are not indigenous to any of those places, and neither is Arabic.)

You may not support the Roman genocide. I hope you don't. But you are still using a term European colonialists used to erase indigenous identity as they genocided them, and it still carries that baggage.

(If you refuse to call the region Israel, Canaan is also a fine term - although it may get you some weird looks.)

[houseofbrat]

This tweet announcing The Jewel of Arabia Exhibition, which William is co-patron.

How did the Jewel of Arabia expedition come about?  “So, the expedition came about really, because 8 years ago, with the support of his Majesty Sultan Qaboos, his Royal Highness King Charles, then Prince of Wales, Sheikh Jaran bin Hamid in Doha, and King Salman in Saudi. We had permission to become the first people in 85 years to cross the Rubal Khali. To follow Bertram Thomas's first ever crossing of the biggest sand desert on Earth. And that journey took place in 1930-31, starting in Salalah, and ending in Doha. So, it was really, that journey was the catalyst for this particular journey coming up.”  The Patrons The Jewel of Arabia Expedition is honoured to have the patronage of His Royal Highness Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham Al Said, Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth of the Sultanate of Oman and His Royal Highness William, The Prince of Wales.

The Jewel of Arabia expedition will follow the route taken by British explorer Bertram Thomas in 1928 from Ras Al Hadd, the most easterly point of the Arab world, along the coast to Salalah, the second largest city in Oman. Passing through or close to many of Oman's biodiversity hotspots the expedition will use the power of social media, podcasts and photography to tell stories through both Arabic and English that will put the spotlight on inspiring people and amazing places, on the young Omanis working in the green arena and on Oman's transition to becoming a sustainable global green energy hub. From ancient turtle nesting grounds to internationally recognised migration pitstops for thousands of wading birds, from Earthshot prize winning carbon capture innovation to the world's only non-migratory population of humpbacked whales, from frankincense groves to a future of green hydrogen and amazing raptor restaurants Oman is awash with stories waiting to be told …. join us around the campfire.

Even when supporting a project in another country, William's Earthshot Prize has to be mentioned. Just has to insert his project into other people's work, even though it really has nothing to do with what was conceived eight years ago.

William's patronages always have to be about supporting his work, not other people.

[artbyaikiojoor]

Hello everyone✨

I have a small announcement to make, im going on a trip to Muscat!, Oman!🥰❤️ im super excited, so i decided to draw this piece, as i love the desert scene a lot🥰 I find it so magical, and i cant wait to see it🥰

I will do a lot of content there, and upload on Instagram, so stay tuned👌

What do you think?

If you like this type of content you can like, share and comment to support my work🌟

Feel free to give art suggestions, and tips on how to improve 😄

Instagram: aikio_joor

[tilbageidanmark]

MOVIES I WATCHED THIS WEEK (#195):

What an unusual film experience!

A PUBLIC PROSECUTOR AND A TEACHER is the very last silent film from Korea (made in 1948!), a morality tale and a flowery melodrama. A kindhearted teacher helps a very poor student of her, a hungry orphan. Years later, she's accused of an accidental murder, and he, who's grown to be a successful lawyer, thanks to her help, is able to save her from a guilty verdict.

But the wordless story is explained via the voice of an overly-emotional orator, "The Last Crying Byeonsa", who gives a running commentary of every detail of the story, in a most unusual way. It is reminiscent of old traditions of oral story-telling. His sorrowful and plaintive interpretation makes this an unbearable tragedy, and the most memorable aspect of this film. (Via).

🍿

"Say, you haven't happen to see a white.... Wang?!"

MURDER BY DEATH was a spoof of the Agatha Christie-type whodunit mysteries, with an ensemble cast that included a rare performance by Truman Capote, a youngish, gayish James Cromwell, and another of Peter Seller's offensive Charlie Chan impressions. it was full of all the old whodunit cliches, down to the blind butler, done in a mid-70's Woody Allen joke style. The only somehow-original point was the opening title sequence which was composed of Charles Addams caricatures. 2/10.

RIP, MAGGIE SMITH!

🍿

6 MORE WITH ISABELLE HUPPERT:

8 WOMEN (2002) is another whodunit murder mystery, but very different. A delightful feminine Christmas comedy, taking place in an isolated snowbound estate, played by an all women cast. Eight of the best French actresses of the day, including sisters Catherine Deneuve and Isabelle Huppert, the gorgeous Virginie Ledoyen, Fanny Ardent and teenage Ludivine Sagnier ham it up. Full of surprises, the best one is that every so often, somebody suddenly starts singing and dancing, (like the Clip Above), or as in 'Toi jamais' or the final shot with Georges Brassens' 'Il n'y a pas d'amour heureux'. Also, nearly everyone secretly is or at least ends up gay! 8/10.

🍿 (Re-visiting the PARC MONCEAU episode from 'Paris, je t'aime', just to see the cutest Ludivine Sagnier again. This was the Alfonso Cuarón short when she was Nick Nolte's daughter.)

🍿 MAMA WEED, my first stylish, fun film by French director Jean-Paul Salomé. A wonderful crime comedy where Isabelle Huppert is a badass Arabic-French translator working for the Narcotic department of the police, but who "Breaks bad" and learns how to deal. Like ‘Personal Shopper’ it ends in the deserts of Oman. 9/10.

🍿 Hotel Vivier Cinémathèque looks like a glamorous short riddle, where Huppert is presenting 5 interactive gaming scenarios, Fantasy, Crime, Comedy, Horror and Animation. But actually it's a whimsical presentation of the 2021 spring collection by some fancy shoe designer.

🍿 "Austria is a country that produces neuroses and also produces culture".

MICHAEL H – PROFESSION: DIRECTOR is an insightful 2013 documentary about director Michael Haneke. It starts with 'Amour' and goes back all the way to 'The Seventh Continent'. Obviously it contains references and interviews with Isabelle Huppert who starred in his 'Time of the wolf' and 'The piano teacher'.

I'm glad that I've seen all his movies [except of 'Funny Games', naturally] so I don't have to watch them again.

🍿 SCÉNARIO DE 'SAUVE QUI PEUT LA VIE, a visual essay proposed by J-L Godard in connection with his 'Every man for himself' (1980). I only watched it because of Isabelle Huppert. His usual stream of consciousness approach mixing up movements, snippets of sounds, words, montage of ideas, unfinished conversations, colours... 1/10

🍿 I was ready to hate the short 3D installation VIRTUAL EMBALMING (2020), "a digital remembrance as a document for the future", but I didn't. Huppert and 2 other women were asked how they wanted to be remembered, and the artist built interesting, artsy alters to their visions.

🍿

It was obvious that the new "Crime Comedy" WOLFS is a mediocre piece of junk from its very first scene when frantic Amy Ryan kept hysterically talking to herself, and from when her "fixer" arrives, and finds a cliched parking spot right in front of her posh NYC hotel. It's a low-rent, uninspired, boring 'Michael Clayton' clone about a 'cleaner', where even the Croatian folk dancing scene felt forced and joyless. Like a copy of a copy of a copy, degraded through the endless, talent-less story-telling. 3/10.

🍿

40'S NOIR WITH LIZABETH SCOTT AND BURT LANCASTER X 2:

🍿 "I'm Mrs. Alexis Richardson."

"You say that like it was spelt in capital letters."

"Ha. Sit down."

Are you telling me or asking me?"

"Please. You know, you're quite an attractive man."

"Keep goin'."

"How far do you want me to go?"

"I'm at the plate. You're doin' the pitching."

I discovered Lizabeth Scott, the beautiful actress with the "smoky voice", because her long Wikipedia page is unusually extensive. She never made it "BIG", but made it big enough to star in 22 hard-boiled, mid-tiered Noir classics in the 40's and 50's.

In I WALK ALONE (1947), good guy Burt Lancaster, released from 14 years in prison, confronts his ex-buddy, bad guy Kirk Douglas. Scott is the sultry nightclub singer, dangling as a bait. Deception, betrayal, retribution... 6/10.

🍿 DESERT FURY is a strange melodramatic Western Noir which is played out in glorious Technicolor. It got beautiful 19 year old Lizabeth Scott who can't get along with her casino owner mom Mary Astor. There's good-guy sheriff Burt Lancaster who's in love with her. And then there's two gangsters who come to their Nevada desert town, who are blatantly a gay couple. They had been together for 15 years, and now one of them falls for young Scott. It's bulky 1947 cars and giant shoulder pads for the ladies, with a Miklos Rosza score working overtime, but it's all so mixed up, with such unclear message.

🍿

X-RAY (1977), my 10th by Krzysztof Kieślowski, in which men that are being treated for tuberculosis at a sanatorium share their thoughts about their lives.

🍿

THE ONE AND ONLY, my 7th film by favorite director Susanne Bier. A frothy romantic comedy, which was both critical and a huge commercial success in Denmark when it came out in 1999. With the always-delectable Sidse Babett-Knudsen, but everybody else on the cast was utterly forgettable, and the story was as cliched and boring as can be. 2/10. [*Female Director*]

🍿

Buster Keaton's 1921 THE PLAYHOUSE is remembered mostly for the first half, in which he plays all the roles, dozen or more, of an elaborate variety show. In the second part he falls in love with a twin. At one point he is dressed and made up as a chimpanzee.

🍿

THE WAY THE EAGLE SHITS is an anti-capitalist screed, an angry cry about wealth inequality and unjust distribution of assets, and it doesn't mince words, or use euphemisms. The Poor are fucked, it shows, in 1975 and today.

🍿

KONCERT, an early, whimsical film by Hungarian István Szabó, which was nominated for an Oscar in 1962. 3 guys on a piano bicycle ride by the Danube, and people join them in an impromptu performance. 2/10.

🍿

MUYBRIDGE'S STRINGS (2011), my second artsy animation by Koji Yamamura (After 'Franz Kafka’s a Country Doctor'). A mixed-up theoretical metaphor about (one of) the fathers of motion pictures. The 'Strings' are the ones his horses triggered galloping in front of the battery of cameras, which took the photographs that later created the illusion of movement. 2/10.

🍿

"I want an unwritten life..."

THE BROTHERS BLOOM (2008), my third strike-out from Rian Johnson (After the 2 boring Benoit Blanc stories). Always looking for a good grifters story, but I couldn't get into this one, even after 3 attempts, and had to bail out midway.

🍿  

(ALL MY FILM REVIEWS - HERE).

[stalkerofthegods]

Boreas straight to the Info, deep dive.

Boreas (North Wind), 

Description - the personification of the north wind in Greek mythology 

Animals• horses, black horses

Colors • purple (royalty)

Crystal•Apophyllite, Aventurine, Green Aventurine, Green Sapphire, Green Tourmaline, Desert Rose, Herkimer Diamond, Jasper Polychronic, K2 Stone, Leopard Skin Jasper, (all crystals are based off what he is the god of.) 

Jewelry • stuff with Wings. 

Names• father of horses' , Boreas

Mortal or immortal • immortal

Patron• the cold north wind, storms, and winter.

offerings• wine

Zodiac •Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces

Symbols • Conch Shell, Billowing Cloak, Wings

Vows/omans•According to Pausanias boreas blessed musaeus with flight

Number• 4 ( winter is the fourth season)

Morals• morally gray.

Courting• Oreithyia

Personality• violent temper, 

Diety of• Boreas Is also a god of dragons, loyalty, kingship and protection in some sources, also good luck. also is a tutelage god 

equivalent• Aquilo (Roman), Septentrio (Roman), and LEN (female equivalent) 

Home• sky, Mount Olympus, perhaps on the North side of the mountain 

dislikes • pan, helios maybe.

Roots•The Greeks believed that his home was in Thrace, And perhaps "Beyond the North Wind" which the people lived in complete happiness and had extraordinarily long lifespans.

Siblings• Eurus, Notus, Zephyrus, Eosphorous/Hespherus, Pyroeis, Stilbon, Ohaetgon, Oharnon, Memnon, Emathion, Astraea

Friends• His wife Oreithyia, Athenians, and himself, and horses, and pretty much of the theoi. 

Omans • black horses 

Appearance in astral or gen• winged, bearded, and powerful; he wears a short, perhaps purple pleated tunic (relations as a royal), Greek skinned, sometimes as a young man with shaggy hair and beard, holding a conch shell and wearing a billowing cloak. in art he was usually depicted with winged human feet. In ancient art, with shaggy hair that is sometimes frosted and spiked. sometimes depicted with serpent tails instead of feet.

Parentage• Eos and astraeus ( goddess of dawn and a minor star-god.) 

Children • Zetes, Calais, Cleopatra, Chione, Tweleve Colts, Cyparissa. Other occasionally named children of Boreas also were the Aurai, the breezes, even though these nymphs were normally classified as daughters of Oceanus; Butes and Lycurgus, brothers which were made insane by Dionysus, and also the hubristic King Haemus of Thrace. Boreas had four more equine offspring with one of the Ernyes which now belongs to Ares the god of war.

Season• Winter 

Status• A minor god, is one of four Anemoi.

symbolizes • the dramatic change of winter and the chilling effects that came with it.

Facts• helped Athenians in exchange for a temple, married into it by Eos

Major Temples • Athenians built him a sanctuary or altar near the Ilissus

Major festivals• Boreasmi or Boreasmus, (Herodotus believed that a Festival of Boreas was initiated during the Persian War.)

Major festivals• Boreasmi or Boreasmus, (Herodotus believed that a Festival of Boreas was initiated during the Persian War.) 

Prayers•

“Boreas, whose wint'ry blasts, terrific, tear the bosom of the deep surrounding air; Cold icy pow'r, approach, and fav'ring blow, and Thrace a while desert expos'd to snow: The misty station of the air dissolve, with pregnant clouds, whose frames in show'rs resolve: Serenely temper all within the sky, and wipe from moisture, Æther's beauteous eye.”

Links/websites/sources •

<a href="https://greekgodsandgoddesses.net/gods/boreas/">Boreas: https://greekgodsandgoddesses.net</a> - Greek Gods & Goddesses, November 16, 2021

Boreas is important in the eco-system and is wise, you see him every day in the wind, whether you see it or not. Praise Boreas.

I use resources, I do not own the info, and most deep dives have UPG (that I use in my work.) And I only take some information from sources. I am 14, this is my hobby, I am learning but I spent many hours and days on this, and I am always open to criticism. I have been doing worship for 5 years. Please know you can use the info, I do not sue, but I will take action if this work is used without permission and not put as a resource if used in any work. without permisson and not put as a resource if used in any work, for the public.

This is my first deep dive from 2 years ago, now I have about more than 12

[ghelgheli]

At the end of the third week [of Ali's solitary confinement] a little relief came with the arrival of several new prisoners, who, even when separated, were so closely familiar to each other that they could have conversations just by speaking one word each in a stage whisper through their cell doors or windows. On their very first night one of them became tired of stealthful whispering and began to half sing, half recite a passage from the Iranian national epic about the successful revolt of Kaveh the blacksmith against Zahhak, a tyrant who ruled ancient Iran:

When Kaveh went out from the court of the king The crowd in the market came flocking around. Still loudly he cried and called out for their help, He summoned the whole world to justice’s aid. A long leather apron such as blacksmiths wear To guard at the forge against hammerblows Kaveh stuck solidly to the point of his lance. Then throughout the bazaar dust of movement arose. Crying out he paraded with the lance in his hand: “Illustrious men! True worshippers of God! Haste! For this ruler is Satan, father of lies.”

Here the word for Satan was “Ahriman,” the god of evil in Zoroastrianism, the religion of Iran in the pre-Islamic period that formed the subject of the epic. As everyone within earshot knew, the humble flag of Kaveh the blacksmith’s apron on a lance became the flag of Iran [derafsh kaviani], carried into battle by the just kings of Iran after Zahhak’s overthrow and death. The reciter was calling for revolution and regicide. Another voice began reciting a passage in which Rostam, the great hero of the national epic [the Shahnameh], “the great-bodied,” “the elephant-statured,” “the paladin” par excellence of the ancient Iranian tradition, is angry at the shah, Ka’us, for rebuking him unjustly:

The hero Rostam was amazed at the king: “Do not nurse such fires in the depths of your heart! Each one of your acts is as bad as the next: You are clearly not worthy of true sovereignty.” He went out in a rage and mounted his steed. “I am the killer of lions, the giver of crowns. When I am angry, then who is this shah Ka’us? Why does he reach for me? Who is his henchman Toos? The earth below is my servant, and my steed, my throne; The mace is my signet, and the helmet my crown. I light the dark night with the thrust of my blade; I scatter men’s heads on the fields of battle. The point of the spear and the blade are my friends; These two arms and this heart I own as my king. Why does he harass me? I am not his slave. I am the slave of the one Creator alone.”

One of the prisoners had begun to beat the marching, warlike rhythm of Ferdowsi’s lines on the frame of his cot, the way drums are beaten while Ferdowsi is recited in “houses of strength” [zurkhaneh] where wrestlers exercise. Suddenly they heard a guard coming up a staircase toward their corridor, and for a second they were silent. Then, against the sound of advancing footsteps, a strong, steady voice recited the gentler rhythm of a poem by Mowlana:

Like Jacob I am uttering cries of grief, I desire the fair face of Joseph of Canaan. By God, without You the city is a prison to me; Over mountain and desert I desire to wander. In one hand the wine cup, in the other, the tresses of the Beloved, Such a dance in the marketplace is my desire. My heart is weary of these weak-spirited traveling companions; I desire the Lion of God and Rostam, the son of Zal.

It was the voice of Parviz, [Ali's childhood friend]. The guard started to pound a stick on an iron railing and shouted, “Keep quiet, keep quiet!” Ali suddenly didn’t care what the man was saying; he knew that whatever happened, he would recite two more lines of this poem:

The bread and water of destiny is like a treacherous flood; I am a great fish and the sea of Oman is my desire. My soul has grown weary of Pharaoh and his tyranny; The light of the countenance of Moses, son of Imran, is my desire—

The guard now slammed his stick on the door of Ali’s cell and yelled, “What kind of fool are you? I told you—keep quiet!” and he hit the door a few times for emphasis. Ali kept quiet, but inside him there was a kind of humming and vibration of life...

One 1971 night in a prison of Pahlavi Iran, as described in The Mantle of the Prophet, Roy Mottahedeh

[suncitytours]

Discover the Best City Tour in Dubai with Sun City Tours & Desert Safari L.L.C

When it comes to exploring Dubai, Sun City Tours & Desert Safari L.L.C reigns supreme, offering an unparalleled blend of global expertise and local insights. Our commitment revolves around delivering an exceptional travel experience that celebrates language, heritage, culture, and the rich Arabic tradition while catering to a diverse international audience.

What truly sets us apart is our unique fusion of international and local management. This fusion allows us to precisely understand and cater to the diverse needs of travellers from various nationalities. Our priority is crafting immersive experiences that resonate with the vibrant essence of Dubai's rich tapestry.

At Sun City Tours & Desert Safari L.L.C, we take immense pride in our extensive and diverse fleet. From standard cars to luxurious limousines and spacious buses, we offer options tailored to every traveller’s preferences. Moreover, our Desert Safari Camp and captivating Dhow Dinner Cruise on Dubai Creek exemplify our commitment to providing diverse and immersive experiences for our cherished guests.

Safety is paramount to us. All our equipment, facilities, and vehicles strictly adhere to comprehensive insurance coverage, complying meticulously with the stringent guidelines set by the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM).

Our dedicated staff undergo rigorous training and bring invaluable experience from the tourism industry, ensuring each interaction is not only professional but also profoundly enriching. Sun City Tours & Desert Safari specializes in organizing a wide spectrum of activities across the United Arab Emirates and Oman. From thrilling desert safaris and captivating sightseeing tours to adventurous water sports and immersive cultural explorations, we offer an extensive range of experiences. Additionally, we facilitate MICE events, conduct team-building exercises, and provide expert assistance with visa applications and worldwide hotel reservations.

Embark on a journey to explore the beauty and excitement of the region with our meticulously crafted tours and services. Every moment spent with us is curated to create enduring memories, offering an immersive experience beyond the confines of conventional tourism.

If you're seeking the best city tour in Dubai, immerse yourself in the unparalleled experiences curated by Sun City Tours & Desert Safari L.L.C.

[rockislandadultreads]

Nonfiction Thursday: Travelogue Recommendations

Wild by Cheryl Strayed 

At twenty-two, Cheryl Strayed thought she had lost everything. In the wake of her mother’s death, her family scattered and her own marriage was soon destroyed. Four years later, with nothing more to lose, she made the most impulsive decision of her life. With no experience or training, driven only by blind will, she would hike more than a thousand miles of the Pacific Crest Trail from the Mojave Desert through California and Oregon to Washington State — and she would do it alone.

Told with suspense and style, sparkling with warmth and humor, Wild powerfully captures the terrors and pleasures of one young woman forging ahead against all odds on a journey that maddened, strengthened, and ultimately healed her.

Leave Only Footprints by Conor Knighton

When Conor Knighton decided to spend a year wandering through "America's Best Idea," he was worried the whole thing might end up being his worst idea. But, after a broken engagement and a broken heart, he desperately needed a change of scenery. The ambitious plan he cooked up went a bit overboard in that department; Knighton set out to visit every single one of America's National Parks, from Acadia to Zion.

Leave Only Footprints is the memoir of his year spent traveling across the United States, a journey that yielded his "On the Trail" series, which quickly became one of CBS Sunday Morning's most beloved segments. In this smart, informative, and often hilarious book, he'll share how his journey through these natural wonders, unchanged by man, ended up changing his worldview on everything from God to politics to love and technology. Whether it's waking up early for a naked scrub in an Arkansas bathhouse or staying up late to stargaze along our loneliest highway, Knighton goes behind the scenery to provide an unfiltered look at America. In the tradition of books like A Walk in the Woods or Turn Right at Machu Picchu, this is an irresistible mix of personal narrative and travelogue-some well-placed pop culture references, too-and a must-read for any of the 331 million yearly National Parks visitors.

World Travel by Anthony Bourdain

Anthony Bourdain saw more of the world than nearly anyone. His travels took him from the hidden pockets of his hometown of New York to a tribal longhouse in Borneo, from cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, Paris, and Shanghai to Tanzania’s utter beauty and the stunning desert solitude of Oman’s Empty Quarter—and many places beyond.

In World Travel, a life of experience is collected into an entertaining, practical, fun and frank travel guide that gives readers an introduction to some of his favorite places—in his own words. Featuring essential advice on how to get there, what to eat, where to stay and, in some cases, what to avoid, World Travel provides essential context that will help readers further appreciate the reasons why Bourdain found a place enchanting and memorable.

Supplementing Bourdain’s words are a handful of essays by friends, colleagues, and family that tell even deeper stories about a place, including sardonic accounts of traveling with Bourdain by his brother, Chris; a guide to Chicago’s best cheap eats by legendary music producer Steve Albini, and more. Additionally, each chapter includes illustrations by Wesley Allsbrook.

Between Two Kingdoms by Suleika Jaouad

In the summer after graduating from college, Suleika Jaouad was preparing, as they say in commencement speeches, to enter “the real world”. She had fallen in love and moved to Paris to pursue her dream of becoming a war correspondent. The real world she found, however, would take her into a very different kind of conflict zone.

It started with an itch—first on her feet, then up her legs, like a thousand invisible mosquito bites. Then a trip to the doctor and, a few weeks shy of her twenty-third birthday, a diagnosis: leukemia, with a 35 percent chance of survival. Just like that, the life she had imagined for herself had gone up in flames. By the time Jaouad flew home to New York, she had lost her job, her apartment, and her independence. When Jaouad finally walked out of the cancer ward—after three and a half years of chemo, a clinical trial, and a bone marrow transplant—she was, according to the doctors, cured. But as she would soon learn, a cure is not where the work of healing ends; it’s where it begins. She had spent the past 1,500 days in desperate pursuit of one goal—to survive. And now that she’d done so, she realized that she had no idea how to live.

How would she reenter the world and live again? How could she reclaim what had been lost? Jaouad embarked—with her new best friend, Oscar, a scruffy terrier mutt—on a 100-day, 15,000-mile road trip across the country. She set out to meet some of the strangers who had written to her during her years in the hospital: a teenage girl in Florida also recovering from cancer; a teacher in California grieving the death of her son; a death-row inmate in Texas who’d spent his own years confined to a room. What she learned on this trip is that the divide between sick and well is porous, that the vast majority of us will travel back and forth between these realms throughout our lives.

[alliance00]

Find the Best Middle Eastern Chefs in Oman Today

The Middle East is famous for its spicy food, fragrance spices, and vivid flavors. And Oman, where you get to taste hospitality and history together—so naturally it's only fitting that you'd also be curious about finding chefs who unlock the secret of this flavor food legacy. Perhaps you're a local food enthusiast, a world-traveling gastronomist who hungers for experience, or perhaps simply someone with an insatiable hunger for that elusive bowl of hummus or lamb kabsa. Whatever your relationship with Oman's food is, this guide is yours.

But with so many options, how do you find the best Middle Eastern chefs in Oman? Panic not—today we've stewed up a delicious guide just for you.

An Introduction to Middle Eastern Food

Middle Eastern food is a spice symphony—each dish has a history spanning decades. Think grilled meat, tender rice, stews, herbs, and garlic and tahini yogurt sauces. It's not just food—it's a cultural experience.

Why Oman is a Culinary Hotspot

Oman may have its fair share of deserts and coastlines, but food here is sizzling. The country is a melting pot of food from all across the Gulf, the Levant, and North Africa. And with Oman's welcoming nature, the local chefs spare no effort in making each dish a work of art.

What Makes a Great Middle Eastern Chef?

It's not merely knife art. A great Chef Middle East Oman is an expert at combining tradition and innovation. They understand how to get along with spices like an artist gets along with colors—combining cumin, coriander, and cinnamon with a master hand. They also show respect for the heritage of the dishes but add their own notes.

Where to Find the Best Chefs in Oman

In pursuit of culinary brilliance? Start at upscale eateries in Muscat, upscale boutiques in Salalah, and even Nizwa's street food stands. The most skilled chefs might not be renowned, so ask the locals and see what they know.

Top Cities to Explore for Culinary Talent

Muscat is the gem of food, providing everything from high-end dining to hip fusion cafes. Salalah impresses with coastal cuisine, while Sohar and Nizwa surprise with gems of traditional souks and markets.

Dishes to Try by Omani-Based Chefs

Ready to tantalize your taste buds? Try:

Shuwa – slow-cooked lamb with spices marinated for a day buried underground!

Mezze platters – colorful plates of hummus, baba ganoush, and more.

Kabsa – fragrant rice and meat dish popular throughout the region.

These dishes are presented with a modern spin when they're cooked by master chefs.

Rising Stars: Up-and-coming Middle Eastern Chefs

A new generation of chefs in Oman is rewriting the cooking cookbook. They're trained in world-class institutions or mentored by legends—and they're willing to experiment. These newcomers combine traditional recipes with global techniques, creating dishes that are Instagram-discoverable and memorable.

Women Chefs Making a Mark in Oman

Historically, the kitchen was always dominated by women in Middle Eastern homes. Nowadays, they're taking center stage in Oman's restaurant scene. Talented female chefs are not only running kitchens but also leading cooking workshops and food startups.

Fine Dining vs. Local Eateries

Seeking white-tablecloth affair overlooking the sea? Oman restaurants deliver. But don't miss, either, the local cafes, where what they serve means more and food is born right out of the soul. It is a choice akin to being torn between the treat on the cruise ship and an adrenaline-bouncing trip along the dhow—both share loveliness, just different ones.

How to Book a Chef or Private Event

Planning a night on the town? Many chefs now offer private dining service—you can engage them to cook at home parties, business dinners, or even al fresco picnics under the stars. A quick call or Instagram DM does the job.

Social Media: A Chef's New Kitchen

Omani chefs are whipping up a storm in the kitchen, but also on social media. Instagram and TikTok are full of foodie tips, behind-the-scenes preparation, and their delicious creations. Try searching for #ChefMiddleEastOman to find some real kitchen artists.

Interview with a Renowned Chef

Celebrity chef in Muscat, Chef Khalid Al-Farsi, has to say: "Middle Eastern cooking is soul. People taste what they are made of when you love what you cook. Oman had the ingredients and the passion all along—now it has the spotlight." 

Customer Reviews: Real Voices Matter

Check Google, TripAdvisor, or Zomato before deciding where to dine or who to book. Fellow foodies' reviews can guide you to hidden gems or avoid a flavorless disaster.

Finding Your Perfect Chef: Tips

Read Oman food blogs

Visit food festivals or hotel tasting events

Get recommendations from hotel staff or Airbnb hosts

Use social media hashtags to spot trending chefs

Don't fear street food—you'd be surprised, it's more often than not the best-kept secret

Conclusion: Your Culinary Adventure Awaits

Finding the best Chef Middle East Oman has is not about chance—it’s about knowing where to look, what to try, and who to trust. Whether your preference leans toward traditional flavors or bold culinary adventures, Oman's cuisine is ready to welcome you with open arms (and full plates). If you're looking to hire top culinary talent or explore chef recruitment options, get in touch with Alliance Recruitment Agency. We specialize in connecting you with the finest chefs in the Middle East. Contact us today to start your culinary journey in Oman.

View source: https://allianceinternationalservices.medium.com/find-the-best-middle-eastern-chefs-in-oman-today-ed2a64b56113

[starwatchingprivatecamp]

🏜️ Experience Authentic Bedouin Desert Camping in Oman! 🌙✨

Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Omani desert at Starwatching Private Camp! Nestled among the golden dunes, our Bedouin-style desert camp offers an unforgettable blend of tradition, comfort, and adventure.

🌟 What Awaits You? ✅ Authentic Bedouin Experience 🏕️ – Stay in handcrafted tents with modern comforts ✅ Breathtaking Sunsets & Sunrises 🌅 – Witness the desert transform with stunning colors ✅ Camel Trekking & Dune Adventures 🐪 – Explore the endless sand dunes like a true nomad ✅ Private Starwatching ✨ – Gaze at the crystal-clear night sky, free from city lights ✅ Traditional Omani Cuisine 🍽️ – Savor delicious Bedouin-style meals under the stars

Whether you're seeking peaceful solitude, adventure, or a romantic retreat, our camp offers an unparalleled escape into the beauty of Oman’s vast desert.

📲 Book your desert experience now! 👉 Bedouin Desert Camp

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[apexglobaloman]

Choosing the Right Pumps Suppliers & Dealers in Oman: A Complete Guide

When it comes to finding the right equipment for water, oil, and other industrial needs, selecting reliable pumps suppliers & dealers in Oman is essential. Oman, with its thriving industries and vast infrastructure, requires quality pumps for various applications. Whether you're in construction, agriculture, or another field, choosing the right supplier can ensure that your systems operate smoothly. In this blog, we will explore how to select the best pumps suppliers and dealers in Oman, what to look for in a pump, and the key benefits of working with trusted suppliers.

Understanding Pumps and Their Importance

What Are Pumps?

A pump is a mechanical device that moves fluids (liquids, gases, or slurries) from one place to another. They are used in many applications across various industries like agriculture, water treatment, and construction. Pumps can move water, fuel, chemicals, and other substances efficiently.

In Oman, pumps are especially important in industries like oil, water management, and even agriculture. Without quality pumps, these industries would face challenges in maintaining flow, pressure, and overall system functionality.

Types of Pumps

There are many types of pumps available, including centrifugal pumps, piston pumps, gear pumps, and diaphragm pumps. Each type of pump serves different purposes depending on the requirements. Some pumps are designed to move large volumes of liquids, while others are intended for high-pressure applications.

Why Choosing the Right Pumps Suppliers & Dealers in Oman is Important

Quality Assurance

When choosing pumps suppliers & dealers in Oman, the quality of the pumps is paramount. A high-quality pump will last longer, require fewer repairs, and operate more efficiently. It is essential to work with a supplier who provides pumps that meet international standards, ensuring reliability and performance.

Availability of Parts and Maintenance Services

Having a supplier that can also offer spare parts and maintenance services is crucial. A pump may need repairs or part replacements over time, so it is essential to work with dealers who provide easy access to parts and can carry out regular maintenance. A reliable supplier will offer excellent after-sales service and customer support, which is a valuable part of the whole purchasing experience.

Competitive Pricing

Another benefit of working with a trusted supplier is competitive pricing. Reputable pumps suppliers & dealers in Oman offer fair prices without compromising on quality. They understand the market dynamics and can offer cost-effective solutions that meet your requirements.

Local Expertise

Local dealers have a better understanding of the specific challenges and needs within Oman’s industries. Whether it’s dealing with the hot desert climate or ensuring pumps perform optimally in various applications, local expertise can make a big difference. Local suppliers know the most suitable types of pumps for Oman’s unique conditions and provide recommendations based on years of experience.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Pumps Suppliers & Dealers in Oman

1. Reputation and Reviews

Before buying pumps, it is crucial to look into the reputation of the supplier or dealer. Check for reviews and feedback from other customers who have worked with the company. Positive reviews can indicate that the supplier provides reliable products and services. You can find reviews on the supplier’s website, social media pages, or other online platforms.

2. Product Range

Choose suppliers who offer a wide range of pumps to cater to different needs. Whether you need a centrifugal pump, a submersible pump, or a diaphragm pump, having options ensures that you will find the right fit for your needs. A supplier with a broad product range can also provide expert advice on which pump is best suited for your specific requirements.

3. After-Sales Support

After-sales service is an important aspect of working with pumps suppliers and dealers. A good supplier will offer maintenance services, installation guidance, and technical support. Having this support ensures that your pumps run efficiently for a long time and that any issues are quickly addressed.

4. Delivery and Installation

The supplier’s delivery and installation service can make a big difference in getting your system up and running. Timely delivery and proper installation ensure that your pump system is set up quickly and without issues. Check if the supplier offers delivery and installation as part of their service package.

5. Warranty and Guarantees

Most quality pumps come with a warranty. A warranty gives you peace of mind knowing that if there’s an issue with the pump, you can get it fixed or replaced without additional cost. Always ask about the warranty terms before making a purchase.

Top Benefits of Working with Trusted Pumps Suppliers in Oman

1. Reliability and Long-Lasting Equipment

When you work with the best pumps suppliers & dealers in Oman, you’re investing in long-lasting equipment. Quality pumps are built to endure tough conditions, ensuring they perform well over time. Reliable pumps reduce the frequency of maintenance and breakdowns, saving you time and money in the long run.

2. Custom Solutions

A trusted supplier will offer customized solutions for your pumping needs. Whether you need pumps for a specific project or customized installations, professional suppliers can cater to unique requirements and ensure that your system functions as intended.

3. Expert Advice

Experienced suppliers can provide valuable advice on the best pumps for your needs. Their expertise can help you make the right decision by explaining the various types of pumps and the benefits of each one. They can also guide you in selecting pumps that are energy-efficient and cost-effective.

4. Compliance with Standards

Reputable pumps suppliers in Oman comply with international standards and regulations. This compliance ensures that you get high-quality, safe, and reliable equipment that meets the required specifications and performs optimally in different environments.

Conclusion: Why Quality Pumps Suppliers Are Key to Your Success

When it comes to purchasing pumps in Oman, working with a reliable pumps supplier & dealer is essential for ensuring that your equipment works efficiently and lasts for years. From offering high-quality products to providing after-sales support, the right supplier makes a significant difference in your business’s success.

Call to Action: If you are looking for high-quality pumps in Oman, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Our experienced team is ready to assist you in finding the best solutions for your needs. Get in touch with us now to discover our range of pumps and services tailored to your requirements!

For more info visit us :

Website:https://www.apexglobalsolutionsme.com/oman/

Phone:971 50 8603675

Address: Sharjah Media City, United Arab Emirates

E-mail ID:sales@apexglobalsolutionsme.com

Google Business Profile:https://maps.app.goo.gl/ENWGsUdF7n6cqBG9A

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Twitter:https://twitter.com/ApexGlobalSolu1

[historiessecret]

Dilmun: Lost Trade Hub of the Ancient World!!

What Was Dilmun? The Forgotten Trade Empire That Shaped the Ancient World

The Myth and Mystery of Dilmun Dilmun, often hailed as the “Land of Immortality” in Sumerian myths, was a thriving civilization that dominated the Persian Gulf from 3000 to 600 BCE. Centered in modern-day Bahrain and eastern Saudi Arabia, it served as a critical crossroads for trade, culture, and innovation. But who were the Dilmunites? How did they build a paradise in the desert, and why did they vanish? This article unravels the secrets of Dilmun, blending archaeology, mythology, and history to revive their forgotten legacy.

Historical Timeline: From Prosperity to Obscurity Early Dilmun (3000–2200 BCE): Emerged as a trade hub linking Mesopotamia, the Indus Valley, and Oman. Middle Dilmun (2200–1000 BCE): Peak of power with urban centers like Qal’at al-Bahrain and the Barbar Temple. Late Dilmun (1000–600 BCE): Decline under Assyrian and Persian invasions, culminating in annexation.

Political Structure: Priest-Kings and Diplomacy Dilmun was ruled by priest-kings who controlled trade and religious rituals. Diplomatic clay tablets reveal alliances with Mesopotamian city-states like Ur and Larsa. The Enki and Ninhursag epic describes Dilmun as a divine realm, suggesting its rulers leveraged mythology to legitimize power.

Archaeological Marvels: Unearthing a Lost World Burial Mounds: Over 170,000 tombs in Bahrain, some 15 meters tall, holding weapons, pearls, and pottery. Qal’at al-Bahrain: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with seven layers of occupation, featuring palaces, warehouses, and fortified walls. Barbar Temple: A three-tiered complex with sacred freshwater springs, dedicated to Enki, the Sumerian water god.

Palace Complexes: Limestone Cities of the Gulf Dilmun’s elites lived in limestone palaces adorned with coral-stone carvings. The Saar Settlement (2000 BCE) reveals grid-like urban planning, while the Diraz Temple hosted rituals involving incense and animal sacrifices.

Trade & Economy: Pearls, Copper, and Global Networks Dilmun monopolized the Gulf’s pearl industry and traded copper from Oman. Merchants used cylinder seals to mark goods, facilitating exchanges with Mesopotamia (textiles) and the Indus Valley (ivory). By 1800 BCE, Dilmunite ships sailed monsoon winds to India, pioneering early globalization.

Art & Pottery: A Fusion of Cultures Dilmun’s pottery blended Mesopotamian motifs (animal figures) with Indus Valley geometric patterns. Chlorite vessels inscribed with undeciphered symbols hint at a unique script. Gold jewelry from the Sar Burial Complex showcases advanced metallurgy.

Religion & Rituals: Gods of Water and Afterlife Dilmunites worshipped Enki and Inzak, a local deity linked to freshwater. Rituals at the Ain Umm Sujoor spring involved offerings of dates and incense. Their burial practices—placing bodies in fetal positions with grave goods—reflected beliefs in rebirth.

Society & Wellness: Equality in the Desert Skeletal studies show low rates of disease, attributed to diets rich in fish and dates. Women held roles as priestesses, evidenced by cosmetic tools in tombs. Laborers built irrigation systems, while elites controlled trade routes.

Engineering Feats: Qanats and Ships Dilmun engineered qanats (underground channels) to irrigate date palms. Their ships, made of reeds and bitumen, navigated the Gulf’s treacherous waters, inspiring later Phoenician designs.

Cultural Influence: Bridging East and West Dilmun’s trade networks spread Sumerian myths to India and Oman. The Epic of Gilgamesh references Dilmun as a paradise, while its burial rituals influenced Persian astodans (ossuaries).

Decline: Conquests and Environmental Crisis Assyrian Invasions (700 BCE): Sennacherib’s campaigns disrupted trade. Soil Salinity: Over-farming drained freshwater springs. Persian Annexation (600 BCE): Dilmun became a satrapy, losing autonomy.

By 300 BCE, its cities were abandoned, replaced by Gerrha as the Gulf’s new trade hub.

Legacy: Why Dilmun Matters Today Dilmun’s story offers lessons in sustainability (managing arid climates) and globalization (cross-cultural trade). Bahrain’s burial mounds attract UNESCO tourists, while scholars study Dilmun seals to decode ancient scripts. Its myth as a “paradise lost” endures in Arabic folklore, reminding us of humanity’s quest for immortality.

Dilmun civilization, ancient trade routes, Bahrain archaeology, Sumerian myths, Bronze Age history

[seascapeoman]

Glass Bottom Boat Tour: A Must-Try Oman Adventure Travel Experience

Discover Oman’s Marine Beauty like Never Before

Oman is a land of breathtaking landscapes, from vast deserts to majestic mountains and pristine coastlines. While its land-based wonders are well-known, the beauty hidden beneath its crystal-clear waters is just as mesmerizing. If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Oman’s marine life, a glass bottom boat tour is the perfect choice. This experience lets you witness the underwater world without even getting wet, making it ideal for travelers of all ages.

What to Expect on a Glass Bottom Boat Tour

A glass bottom boat tour - SEASCAPE offers an unforgettable journey over Oman’s vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine ecosystems. As you cruise along the coastline, you’ll have a front-row seat to the stunning underwater world through the transparent panels at the boat’s base. The tour typically includes:

Up-close views of marine life – Spot colorful fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating sea creatures.

Exploration of coral reefs – Get a glimpse of Oman’s thriving coral formations.

A scenic coastal journey – Enjoy breathtaking views of Oman’s coastline, including secluded beaches and rocky cliffs.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a family looking for a fun activity, or a photographer seeking the perfect shot, this tour is a fantastic way to appreciate Oman’s underwater beauty.

Why Choose a Glass Bottom Boat Tour?

Unlike traditional boat rides, a glass bottom boat tour provides a unique perspective of the ocean. Here’s why it’s a must-try activity:

No Diving Required – You don’t need to be a swimmer or diver to experience marine life up close.

Safe and Comfortable – Perfect for families with kids and elderly travelers.

Eco-Friendly Exploration – Enjoy the beauty of the ocean without disturbing marine life.

Educational and Fun – Learn about Oman’s marine biodiversity from expert guides.

The Best Locations for a Glass Bottom Boat Tour in Oman

Oman is home to some of the most spectacular marine sites in the region. Popular spots for a glass bottom boat tour include:

Musandam Fjords – Known as the ‘Norway of Arabia,’ this region offers stunning waters teeming with marine life.

Daymaniyat Islands – A protected nature reserve with vibrant coral reefs and exotic fish species.

Bander Al Khayran – A picturesque bay where you can witness diverse underwater habitats.

No matter which location you choose, each tour promises an exciting and visually stunning adventure.

Combine It with Other Oman Adventure Travel Activities

A glass bottom boat tour is just one of the many exciting activities you can enjoy in Oman. If you’re looking for a complete Oman adventure travel experience, consider combining your boat tour with:

Snorkeling or diving – Get even closer to Oman’s marine wonders.

Dolphin watching – Witness playful dolphins leaping through the waves.

Kayaking or paddle boarding – Explore Oman’s serene waters at your own pace.

Desert safaris – After your ocean adventure, head into the dunes for a thrilling off-road experience.

By blending these activities, you can enjoy a well-rounded adventure that showcases Oman’s diverse natural beauty.

FAQs

Do I need any special skills for a glass bottom boat tour?

No, this tour is suitable for everyone, including families with children and elderly travelers.

What should I bring for the tour?

A hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera are recommended to make the most of your experience.

Can I book a private glass bottom boat tour?

Yes, many tour operators offer private charters for a more personalized experience.

Is the glass bottom boat tour available year-round?

Yes, but the best time to go is between October and April when the weather is cooler and the waters are calmer.

A glass bottom boat tour is an unforgettable way to witness the beauty of Oman’s underwater world. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a relaxing experience on the water, this tour is a must-try. Combine it with other Oman adventure travel activities, and you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.

Blog Resources:- https://seascapeoman.blogspot.com/2025/02/glass-bottom-boat-tour-must-try-oman.html

[panashifzco]

The Role of Self-Service Kiosks in the Tourism Industry of the Middle East

The Middle East tourism industry is a rich mix of diversity and dynamism. The tourism scene in the Middle East offers a blend of cultural and historical heritage, pilgrimage tourism, modernity, luxury tourism, and, of course, its enigmatic natural wonders. Yes, the Middle East has immense potential in the domain of tourism. With strategic planning and infrastructure development, policy-making and revision, technology inclusion, and the adoption of meaningful marketing campaigns, the countries in the Middle-east can attract even more visitors from all over the world.

To enhance client experiences, expedite processes, and maintain competitiveness in the international market, the travel and hospitality sector in the Middle East has been increasingly adopting a technology-inclusive approach. Self-service kiosk machines have become integral to this strategy. In this blog, we'll shed light on the various use-case scenarios of self-service kiosks and the associated benefits in the tourism and hospitality industry of the Middle East.

The rich and diverse middle-east tourism landscape

Travelers are drawn to the Middle East by its enticing mix of experiences, which attracts large numbers of people to the region. Middle Eastern travel experiences range from the thrilling rush of adventure destinations to the captivating attraction of cultural festivals and events. Tourists also enjoy the tax-free shopping benefits offered in the UAE. Let’s not forget that Dubai is one of the most preferred shopping destinations in the Middle East and Asia. It's a full package that lures guests in with an abundance of experiences and surprises just waiting to be discovered. Let’s explore what the Middle East has to offer for tourists.

Pilgrimage destinations – The region is a well-known pilgrimage centre for Muslims, Christians, and Jews for ages. Pilgrimage destinations like Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia, and the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, attract a large number of visitors and pilgrims annually. Mecca is considered the holiest place of Islam.

The international news agency Reuters has an interesting report in this regard. The report mentions that before the pandemic broke out in 2020, as part of the Mecca-Medina haj and umrah pilgrimages, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia earned an estimated revenue of $12 billion in the year 2019. A whopping 19 million visitors gathered for umrah alone in the same year.

Cultural tourism – The countries like Egypt, Iran and Jordan holds historical and cultural treasures and attract tourists from all over the world. The region is a cradle of ancient civilizations, kingdoms and has huge archaeological significance. Egyptian pyramids, Petra – one of Jordan’s most visited tourist destinations, Baalbek in Lebanon, Persepolis in Iran, the ancient wonder of Babylon, and the list goes on.

Eco-tourism destinations – The region has varied landscapes like deserts, semi-arid areas, coastal regions, oases, mountains, and hills. There are many striking destinations in countries like the UAE and Oman that offer wildlife and desert exploration, as well as hiking opportunities for tourists, as part of eco-tourism plans.

Adventure tourism destinations – Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE, Jordan, and Israel have a lot to offer when it comes to adventure tourism. These countries offer several engaging and fun-filled activities for adrenaline rush seekers like camel riding, sandboarding, desert trekking, hiking, etc., just to mention a few!

Cultural events, exhibitions and festivals – Cultural events and festivals happen frequently in the Middle East, attracting both local and international visitors in large numbers. Music, dance, art, cinema, food, and literature are showcased and celebrated in these events. The Winter Solstice in Petra, the Dubai Shopping Festival, the Abu Simbel Sun Festival, and the Dubai Food Festival are world-renowned. The Global Village Dubai is the meeting point of different cultures, a mini-world that showcases top-notch shopping and entertainment experiences in the bustling city of Dubai. The Sheikh Zayed Festival, a colourful heritage festival held in Abu Dhabi attracts both local and international travellers alike. The Gitex Shopper is the region’s largest consumer electronics exhibition that brings together prominent electronics brands and retailers of the world under one roof.

Culinary Tourism – Food is an integral part of the culture of middle-east. The middle-east offers varied culinary experiences to the visitors and tourists, both traditional and modern dishes, sophisticated and vibrant eatery outlets etc. Gulfood, the world’s biggest food and beverages event held in Dubai, is a celebration of food, where the world’s leading F&B companies participate. The event attracts thousands of food lovers from all over the world. Turkey is a haven for food lovers, and the country is well-known for its rich and diverse dishes, interesting culinary techniques, and hospitality.

Luxury tourism - The Middle East is well known for its lavish resorts, retail centres, and hotels. Dubai is world-renowned for its sophisticated buildings, luxury shopping destinations, and bustling nightlife, establishing itself firmly on the world tourism map. The Burj Khalifa has earned unique recognition as the most popular landmark in the world. A staggering fact about this mind-blowing architectural marvel is that it attracts around 17 million visitors annually!

Now let us delve into the various use-case scenarios of self-service kiosks in the middle-east tourism scene.

Streamlining airport experiences

Deploying a self-service airport kiosk is an excellent way to streamline airport operations and make customer check-in and boarding effortless.

The kiosk machine will print the boarding pass in a matter of minutes after you enter the required passenger information. These airport kiosks are loaded with passport scanner, Smart ID card reader, camera, printer, and other features that all work in unison to make sure that tourists have a quick and easy experience.

Benefits of deploying an Airport Kiosk

Let’s go through the benefits of deploying a typical self-service airport kiosk in the airport premises.

Airport kiosk deployment has benefits for both the passengers and airport authorities.

Improved passenger satisfaction – the passengers can perform the check-in, select their seats and print the boarding pass without any external assistance. Passengers feel empowered and confident by performing these tasks by themselves, which adds to passenger satisfaction.

Eliminate long lines – A self-service airport kiosk automates the process of check-in and boarding pass issuance, and hence speeds up the entire process. This eliminates the long lines in airports.

Multi-language facility - An airport self-service kiosk comes loaded with multi-language facility which is highly convenient for foreign tourists.

Improved operational efficiency – A more streamlined check-in experience via airports kiosk eliminates the conventional, time-consuming, check-in counter interactions. This significantly reduces passenger wait-times in airports and thus improves operational efficiency.

24/7 seamless functionality – A self-service airport kiosk can function all day long without sacrificing operational efficiency. Inadequacies in the number of staffs will not affect the check-in and boarding pass issuance process.

Improved resource allocation – the conventional check-in counters consume significant space. The authorities can free up this space by deploying airports kiosks and use the freed-up space for more productive tasks.

Reduced expenses – The airport staff need not perform conventional check-in tasks, preventing them from indulging in age-old monotonous processes. Instead, they can be redeployed to handle more responsible and customer-centric tasks. Reduced staffing requirements bring down overall expenses to a significant extent.

Simplifying hotel check-in & check-out process

By introducing hotel check-in kiosk at the reception or lobby, you can prevent your guests from standing in the long lines. With the deployment of hotel check-in kiosk, guests enjoy a smooth and hassle-free check-in experience; thanks to these sleek and stylish machines that automate the conventional procedure. Let’s walk through the check-in process.

Guest identification - First, simply provide your booking details at the check-in kiosk, such as your name, confirmation message, or card-related information.

Room selection – Browse through the list of available rooms displayed on the kiosk screen and pick your desired room.

Key Issuance – Once you’ve made your selection, the kiosk machine immediately dispenses the room key card.

It’s that simple and convenient!

Benefits of deploying a self-service check-in Kiosk

The reception tasks become much easier and efficient through self-service check-in kiosk deployment. The benefits are many.

Reduces waiting time – At times, during peak hours, guests have to wait for several minutes in the lobby to meet the reception staff. A typical hotel check-in kiosk speeds up the process and reduces the guest waiting time.

Reduces congestion in lobby - Waiting in the lobby causes congestion that affects the travel experience of guests. Moreover, the sight of a congested lobby is not welcoming for other guests who are planning to book a room in the hotel. The image of a "congested lobby" gets imprinted in the minds of guests, creating a negative impression that may affect future bookings as well. Therefore, a congested lobby can equate to a drop in revenue.

24/7 functionality – The reception staff may not be available in certain hotels during off-seasons, especially late at night or during morning hours. A hotel check-in kiosk can handle this situation with utmost efficiency by providing 24/7 check-in functionality.

Instils confidence in guests – Deploying self-service kiosks instils confidence in guests as they can perform the check-in all by themselves, at any comfortable time. They need not consider the reception timings or availability. And, of course, they feel empowered!

Virtual concierge – A hotel check-in kiosk serves as a 24/7 virtual concierge that helps guests plan their travel schedules. Guests can access travel-related information from a hotel kiosk such as the best places to visit, top restaurants, transportation facilities, and much more.

Request for room service – The guest can rely on the self-service check-in kiosk to demand services related to room service, cleaning, etc. eliminating the need to talk to a human concierge.

Make payments - Guests can access check-in kiosks to settle existing room rents, additional charges etc. The payments can be done securely via the kiosk machine prior to the check-out.

Gather guest feedbacks – Hotels can collect valuable guest feedbacks like stay experiences via check-in kiosk. Feedbacks helps to improve services offered by the hotel and revise the existing strategies, if needed.

Display promotion and special discounts – The interactive kiosk screen serves as an exceptional platform to display various offers and run promotional campaign, market special events etc.

Improved guest satisfaction – Offering a seamless check-in experience via a technology-powered self-service platform improves customer/guest satisfaction.

Improved revenue though upselling – Apart from performing the basic check-in functions, a hotel check-in kiosk can perform upselling tasks in various ways by offering room upgrades, personalised offers etc. to guests.

Gather valuable customer insights – A self-service hotel check-in kiosk can gather valuable data pertaining to customer’s booking preferences, previous responses and behaviours etc. Analysing customer data is crucial in devising new marketing strategies or restructuring the old ones.

Remote monitoring facility – The hotels can remotely monitor the performance of the kiosk machine, providing real-time updates and offers from a different location.

Enhancing visitor experiences at travel destinations

Visitors pay to experience something new or incredible that they have not witnessed previously. A particular travel experience that can communicate effectively with visitors creates a lasting impact. Self-service kiosks, when installed at the right locations, can enhance the overall travel experiences of visitors to a great extent.

Information Kiosk – Hotels and tour companies may deploy a self-service Information kiosk at important travel destinations or busy locales to assist and inform tourists. The Information kiosk features an interactive screen that helps tourists gather a plethora of information regarding the destination, its cultural or historical significance, specific places of interest or value, interactive maps and guides for navigation, and information regarding basic amenities like restrooms and eating facilities. Tourists may listen to audio or video-assisted commentary or narration of the place, access headphones for private listening, and fully engage with their surroundings. This helps in improving the overall travel experience. An Information Kiosk is highly practical in tourism settings as the kiosk machine can provide real-time updates regarding weather, closing time details, emergency messages, etc. with least human intervention.

Wayfinding kiosk - A wayfinding kiosk can immensely help tourists with navigation, particularly if the destination is spread across large areas, making it difficult to navigate. Wayfinding kiosks are ideal for places like parks, shopping malls, airports, universities, college campuses, events, etc. An Information Kiosk/Wayfinding kiosk is easily customizable to meet specific demands or requirements. A visitor fully immersed and engaged with their surroundings is what travel companies, government authorities, and private players in the tourism and hospitality sector are aiming for.

Self-service kiosks for Cultural Institutions – Cultural institutions include museums, mosques, libraries, churches, historical monuments, cultural centres that conserve, propagate or share information regarding culture, arts, history, and information within a community. Yes, even cultural institutions can leverage the benefits of self-service kiosks. Here is how it can be done.

Real-time updates – The integration with Library Management Systems helps to publish real-time updates regarding the current status, access user records data, information related to previous transactions etc.

Fundraising platform – These institutions can deploy a self-service donation kiosk/charity kiosk at their premises to easily manage fundraising initiatives. The interactive kiosk screen can creatively convey the fundraising goals effectively to visitors or tourists, enabling positive engagement from their part.

Provide accurate, updated information - Tourists require updated and legitimate information. Any misinformation can adversely affect their itinerary, plans, and ultimately their precious time. Cultural institutions can disseminate updated and relevant information to visitors via a tourism kiosk.

Create Immersive experiences – Cultural institutions can deploy self-service kiosks to create diverse immersive experiences for visitors to improve visitor experience. A typical example is a museum kiosk.

Museums can improve visitor experiences by curating interactive exhibits, virtual tours, augmented reality experiences, interactive games, etc., to create a lively and exhilarating museum experience.

Promote special events – Cultural institutions can promote special events, workshops, meetings, and training sessions. Moreover, promotion of the events can be conducted in the most engaging ways through interactive videos, graphical animations, etc.

Multi-language support for international tourists

Millions of tourist flock to Middle Eastern countries like the UAE, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia each year. Tourists from various nationalities and cultures visit international travel destinations like Dubai. Therefore, providing adequate language support to this diverse tourist population is highly relevant, especially when it comes to improving guest experience.

Benefits

Deploying a self-service kiosk with multi-language facility at places of high footfall can immensely help foreign tourists.

Instant convenience – Once the user selects the desired language, the instructions are displayed in the selected language via the kiosk screen. Thus, the user can easily navigate through the instructions irrespective of the person’s language proficiency.

Seamless transaction assistance – Irrespective of the type of transaction, whether it’s ticket booking, a purchase, or simply reading through the instructions, the kiosk machine provides the necessary language assistance from the very start until the end of the transaction.

Improved guest satisfaction - When services are available to visitors in their native tongue, they feel more appreciated and welcomed, which ultimately enhances the guest experience.

Addressing the challenges in self-service kiosk deployment

The tourism industry of the middle-east experiences varied challenges, and therefore, it is vital to address them. Knowing the challenges involved will help us make well-informed decisions prior to deployment and judiciously optimize the use of resources as well. Here are the challenges involved.

Lack of infrastructure – Lack of adequate infrastructure can be a problem in some parts of the region. Uninterrupted electricity and internet connectivity are prerequisites for self-service kiosk deployment.

Unfamiliarity with technology – Implementing self-service kiosks in areas where the technology may be foreign necessitates extensive user training and orientation initiatives. A successful deployment depends on promoting adoption and resolving any user concerns or disagreements.

Cultural sensitivity - Cultural standards and sensibilities vary across the region. It takes considerable imagination and expertise to design self-service kiosks that honour regional traditions and customs while also providing effective service. As a team of professionals, Panashi is fully aware of the cultural and religious sensitivities that exist in the region. We have high regards for cultural norms and traditions. Our team is fully-equipped to provide customizable kiosk solutions, considering the design and content aspects, and fully adhering to the client’s requirements.

Harsh weather conditions – As we all know, the region experiences harsh weather conditions like extremes of temperature and violent sandstorms, which can pose a threat to outdoor kiosk machines. The Panashi technical team has top-notch expertise in deploying kiosk machines in harsh weather settings. Our Panashi kiosk enclosures adhere to the IP65 standard, guaranteeing durability and resilience against challenging weather conditions. We conduct water jet tests on the enclosure to assess its durability and rigidity, ensuring that our kiosks withstand the harshest of environments with ease. Special protective shades are incorporated on the kiosk enclosure to protect it from extreme heat.

Regulatory issues – Complex compliance-related norms and diverse jurisdiction regulations, at times, become challenging.

Benefits

Reduced wait times – Ticketing kiosk automates ticketing process efficiently, and therefore reduces wait times. Efficient ticketing process means added convenience for the visitors.

24/7 ticketing – Unlike conventional ticketing counters that are managed by ticketing staff, a self-service ticketing kiosk remains operational 24/7.

Reduced expenses - self-service ticketing kiosk manages the repetitive, less-productive, ticketing task of the ticketing staff and serves as the perfect alternative, which in turn, brings down expenses.

Fast and smooth transactions – the user reads the information displayed on the kiosk screen, selects the number of tickets and does the payment. The ticket issuance or the booking confirmation receipt is received in few minutes.

Collect user data and insights – the ticketing authority gets access to the valuable insights related to user/visitor preferences and patterns like number of visitors during peak time, preferred ticket category, demographical insights etc.

The inclusion of technology in Tourism sector – Examples

The travel and tourism sector have successfully integrated technology to streamline various day-to-day operations like tour planning, booking and even experiencing travel. Some examples are listed below.

Online booking websites and apps – Most of us are familiar with online booking websites and apps like Trivago, Goibibo, Booking.com, Expedia etc. These websites and apps make tour planning and booking process highly convenient. They also provide highly useful features like price comparisons, reviews, recommendations etc so that visitors can make best travel-related decisions. Mobile apps like TripAdvisor, Hopper, Skyscanner, Rome2Rio are some of the best apps every serious traveller should know.

Virtual Reality technology – Now, you don't have to travel; the top travel destinations come to you via VR technology. Travel and exploration are now possible from the comfort of your home without physically visiting the destination. Yes, VR enables a fantastic and futuristic immersive experience. Select a convenient VR platform, download the VR app, and start your virtual exploration. Yes, the process is highly convenient and simple.

Augmented Reality (AR) - Augmented Reality technology offers immersive experiences to visitors and travellers by modifying the physical settings with digital overlays to create a significant improvement in understanding specific locations, structures, buildings, exhibits, etc. Augmented Reality opens up an exciting platform to add interactive user experiences through the power of storytelling.

Digital guides and Audio tours – It’s a common sight nowadays to find digital guides and audio tour platforms at busy travel destinations. The users can make use of their smartphones or other devices to access audio tours and digital guides. These digital platforms offer multimedia information and interactive maps coupled with insightful narration.

Conclusion

The introduction of self-service kiosks has truly transformed the tourist experiences in the Middle East. These kiosk solutions don’t just simplify business operations; They enhance the overall guest experience. Self-service kiosks are changing the way travellers perceive and interact with a wide range of industries in the Middle-eastern tourist landscape. Kiosk machines are deployed for a variety of requirements ranging from check-in at airports and hotels to interactive displays in museums. Interactive kiosk solutions will play a key role in transforming the future of the tourism industry in the Middle-east and its position as a prominent tourism hub in Asia. Whether exploring ancient sites or diving into modern wonders, self-service kiosks are changing how we interact with businesses in the Middle-east tourist landscape. Being able to successfully blend technology and hospitality, they not only organize tours; They form memories that last a lifetime.

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Explore Oman with the Best Destination Management Company

Our Destination Management Company in Oman handles it all. Custom-made travel packages, hotel reservations, guided tours and transportation services are some of our key specialties that make your trip seamless and enjoyable. Whether looking for cultural experiences, adventure excursions or business travel solutions-we offer an impeccable service based on your needs. Our trained team will ensure that you enjoy Oman’s spectacular landscapes, historical sites and bustling bazaars without any hassle. From airport pick-ups to luxurious accommodations, adventurous Jebel Shams trekking and desert safaris-we arrange it all for you. Trust us to make your Oman trip memorable. Tell us what you want, and we will plan the perfect getaway for you.

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Top Tourist Attractions in Bahrain: Must-See Landmarks and Site

Bahrain, delightfully known as an island nation within the Persian Gulf, offers a magnificent blend of old heritage, wonderful attractions, and something new that any traveler will be widely impressed by. With its blend of ancient ruins that go back thousands of years, the modern day Bahrain skyline, it has something to pique the interest of everyone from the seasoned traveller to the first time visitor. This small but lively kingdom from its historic forts to its luxurious shopping districts is a cultural and architectural treasure.

If you’re planning your trip to this unique destination, you’ll want to make sure you don’t miss out on some of the most popular and awe inspiring sites. If you’re looking for some ideas, here’s a guide to the top tourist attractions in Bahrain you should visit. Before you set off on your journey, make sure you have read up on the easy process of getting your Bahrain visa from India, as it’s just a few clicks away!

Here are the Top Tourist Attractions in Bahrain: Must-See Landmarks and Site

1. The Bahrain National Museum

Bahrain National Museum is one of the oldest and longest that is the most significant museum in the Gulf. Bahrain’s modern history is showcased in some exhibits as well as ancient Dilmun artifacts on display here. It’s a great place to start the exploration of the country’s rich heritage.

Tip: Don’t forget to visit the stunning collection of Islamic art in the museum and get lost in the beautiful seafront that surrounds the museum.

2. Bahrain Fort (Qal'at al-Bahrain)

The Bahrain Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site which is part of a long history that goes back to around 2300 BC. Located on Bahrain’s ancient past, this was the center of the Dilmun civilization, an ancient fort. The fort is strategically located on the sea, which makes it one of Bahrain’s best tourist attraction.

Fun Fact: Evening visits to the fort are perfect as it has wonderful views of the Arabian Gulf.

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3. Al Fateh Grand Mosque

The Al Fateh Grand Mosque is a must see if you’re looking for a truly awe inspiring architectural masterpiece. It is one of the largest mosques in the world, with over 7,000 worshippers as its capacity. Visitors love its grand dome, intricate designs and its peaceful surroundings. Tourists can visit the mosque and have guided tours.

Pro Tip: When visiting the mosque take note to dress modest and check out what hours you are permitted to have a visit beforehand.

4. The Tree of Life

Bahrain’s most famous natural wonder is the Tree of Life. This lone tree keeps it's head held high in the middle of the desert, but doesn’t have any water source that we can see. It is an intriguing and must see sight because of its mystery behind its survival in the harsh desert environment. It’s a great place to take pictures and to marvel at nature’s resilience.

5. Bahrain Bay

If you want a taste of modern Bahrain, make your way to Bahrain Bay, a beautiful waterfront development featuring luxury hotels, high end restaurants and entertainment. A blend of sleek, futuristic architecture and traditional Bahraini designs, the skyline here is a blend of two. This is the place to be if you love shopping or dining with a view!

Tip: Be sure to walk along the bay in the evening when the lighting off the skyscrapers is shimmered on the window of the bay.

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6. Manama Souq

Their winding lanes, colorful stalls and bustling atmosphere will bring you back to the time when you visited the Manama Souq. It is one of the best places to see the Bahraini culture and shop for special souvenirs, including those of traditional spices, textiles, jewelry, perfumes. The souq is a must see whether you’re bargaining for a handwoven scarf or picking up a piece of locally made pottery!

7. Pearl Monument

Another big landmark that respects Bahrain’s pearl diving heritage is the Pearl Monument in Manama. The monument is a symbol of the importance of the pearling industry to the country which was this country’s economy for centuries. It’s a fantastic spot to stop for a quick photo opportunity, located at the intersection of King Faisal Highway.

8. Bahrain International Circuit

The Bahrain International Circuit is but an exciting location for fans of motorsports. This track is hosting Bahrain Grand Prix which brings fans from all over the world. If you happen to visit during race season, you’re in for a great show. If you’re not a motorsport enthusiast, the circuit is a great feat of modern engineering.

Conclusion:

It is difficult to imagine a more perfect blend of ancient history and the excitement of modernity than in Bahrain. Whatever your experience is here on this island kingdom, with ancient ruins, bustling souks or soaking in the views from the waterfront there is always something incredible at every corner. In all there is no shortage of remarkable landmarks to explore from the iconic Bahrain Fort and the highly decorated majesty Al Fateh Grand Mosque.

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Before you start searching for these amazing attractions you should know that getting a Bahrain visa from India is easy and hassle free especially when you apply for an India to Bahrain visa online. Pack your bags, get your visa sorted, and you too should ready to enjoy what Bahrain has to offer!