Muscat – Oman observed a special day on Monday to honour its globally influential personalities, recognised by Unesco.

The initiative, led by the Ministry of Education through the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, designates February 10 as the annual day to remember Omani figures included in Unsco’s list of influential personalities. This day is also significant as it marks the anniversary of Oman’s accession to Unesco in 1972.

The list of notable Omani personalities includes linguist Al Khalil bin Ahmed al Farahidi, added in 2005; physician and pharmacist Rashid bin Omaira al Rustaqi, recognised in 2013; social reformer Sheikh Nooreddin al Salmi and physician Abu Mohammed Abdullah al Azdi, both listed in 2015; poet Nassir bin Salim al Rawahi, included in 2019; and navigator Ahmed bin Majid, known as the Lion of the Sea, who was added in 2021.

The day honours the contributions of Omani figures who have made a mark both locally and internationally in their chosen fields. Oman’s inclusion of six distinguished individuals and two significant cultural events in Unesco’s programme underscores the country’s rich heritage. Unesco has also recognised two key cultural milestones of Oman in its list of anniversaries for 2024-25. These include the 350th anniversary of Jibreen Castle and the 150th death anniversary of historian and poet Humaid bin Mohammed bin Ruzaiq.

Jibreen Castle, a 17th-century structure, stands as a testament to Oman’s architectural and cultural legacy.

The anniversary of Ruzaiq’s passing commemorates his role in documenting Oman’s history from the rise of the Al Busaid dynasty to the end of Sayyid Said bin Sultan’s reign in 1856.

The observance of this day highlights the lasting influence of Omani personalities and cultural landmarks on both the national and global stage.