Muscat – The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Oman inaugurated Dutch Culture Week at the Bait Al Zubair Museum in Muscat on Monday, marking 400 years of maritime relations between Oman and the Netherlands. The event highlighted the longstanding cultural and diplomatic ties between the two nations.

H E Sheikh Khalifa al Harthy, Undersecretary for Political Affairs in the Foreign Ministry, attended the opening as Guest of Honour, alongside Omani dignitaries, artists, students, Dutch residents and members of the public.

At the centre of the evening was the opening of Food for Thought, a photographic exhibition by Dutch photojournalist and filmmaker Kadir van Lohuizen. The exhibition examines the global food supply chain across countries including the Netherlands, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kenya, the US and China, using large-scale images and projections to reflect on agriculture, production and sustainability.

The Wind Quintet of the National Youth Orchestra of the Netherlands performed at the launch, drawing praise for its emotionally resonant performance by young Dutch musicians.

Also featured was Emotions of the Oceans, a student-led exhibition organised by the Green Life Art Center. It showcased 20 artworks by school students, focusing on marine conservation, climate change and cultural identity. The exhibition was widely appreciated for giving a voice to youth on environmental themes.

In her opening remarks, H E Stella Kloth, Ambassador of the Netherlands to Oman, said, “The power of culture- and art in particular – is that it can open doors to dialogue, mutual understanding, and trust. Art is a form of soft power that creates connection, challenges perspectives, and contributes meaningfully to public discourse. This role is especially vital in times of conflict and global instability. Culture helps us come together celebrate cultural diversity as a source of strength and resilience.”

The event marked the beginning of a week-long programme including workshops, educational initiatives and other cultural activities, aimed at strengthening people-to-people connections between Oman and the Netherlands. The exhibitions will remain open to the public at Bait Al Zubair Museum for two weeks.