Muscat – Leading Omani filmmakers and cinema experts are calling for a genuine, globally competitive film industry rooted in local culture to convey Oman’s identity to the world.

Mohammed bin Abdullah al Ajmi, President of Oman Film Society (OFS), said culture must be at the heart of developing authentic national cinema. “We have a deep reservoir of narratives that can lift cinema from entertainment to a platform for intellectual and cultural dialogue,” he said.

Ajmi highlighted Oman’s linguistic diversity and rich heritage of folktales as fertile ground for symbolic and spiritual storytelling. He added that the country’s diverse landscapes – from deserts to mountains and coastlines – should be consciously integrated into films, shaping stories that showcase the natural beauty.

“These landscapes embody a philosophy of life that is distinctly Omani yet universal,” Ajmi said.

He urged investment in a full cinematic ecosystem, including local and international festivals and dedicated screening platforms. “Festivals are vital for creative exchange. These allow Omani filmmakers to connect with global intellects and artistic trends,” he said.

Ajmi stressed that true global appeal does not mean compromising cultural authenticity. “Audiences want honest cinematic voices. Nothing is more genuine than stories told from one’s roots.”

Filmmaker Anwar bin Khamis al Ruzeiqi described Omani cultural elements as “hidden treasures” that can anchor a distinctive national cinema. He encouraged filmmakers to reinterpret local narratives through modern cinematic language and emphasised the narrative power of Oman’s landscapes.

“Oman’s settings are not just backgrounds – they mirror emotions and carry symbolic weight,” Ruzeiqi said. He called for bigger festivals, co-productions, and nurturing of young talent to raise technical standards and broaden reach.

“For international success, our cinema must tackle universal themes from an Omani perspective – authentic stories told in a unique visual and narrative style,” he said, adding that strategic marketing is key to taking these stories abroad.

Filmmaker Muzna al Musafer said Oman’s cinema must move beyond traditional portrayals and capture the spirit of the modern Omani. “We need a vision that shows people in harmony with nature, yet in step with contemporary life. Filmmakers must develop this vision and present it to the world with sophistication.”

Qaisar bin Salem al Hinai, another filmmaker, said Oman’s cultural and natural wealth provides a strong foundation for cinema with cross-cultural appeal. “From Musandam’s linguistic diversity to Dhofar’s oral heritage and our landscapes – these are the raw materials for a cinema that is authentic and relatable globally,” he said.

“Omani cinema can become a voice that connects cultures, but this demands sustained investment in artistic vision and technical skills without losing touch with our heritage.”