Muscat – Umberto Fanni, Director General and Artistic Director of the Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM), has been bestowed with the Order of the Star of Italy. 

The award was handed over by H E Pierluigi D’Elia, Ambassador of Italy to Oman, recently at his residence in Muscat.  

The honour, conferred by the President of the Italian Republic, is one of Italy’s most prestigious and historic decorations. Fanni was awarded the rank of Cavaliere (Knight) in recognition of his outstanding contribution to strengthening cultural relations between Italy and Oman.

Through his leadership at the ROHM, Fanni, over the last couple of years, has played a key role in enhancing artistic cooperation between Oman and Italy through music and the performing arts and promoting Italian creativity and cultural excellence in the country. 

Speaking during the ceremony, H E D’Elia said, “This occasion celebrates not only the remarkable achievements of Umberto Fanni, but also the strength of the cultural friendship between Italy and Oman. Through his passion, vision and dedication, Fanni has transformed culture into a bridge between peoples and nations, reinforcing the values of dialogue, openness, and mutual respect that unite our countries. Italy is honoured to recognise his exceptional contribution with the Order of the Star of Italy.”

The ceremony was attended by representatives of Omani institutions, members of the diplomatic corps, and Omani and Italian cultural figures, reflecting the importance of cultural diplomacy in further strengthening bilateral relations between Italy and Oman.