Oman to showcase its culture at the 2026 Venice Biennale

The Sultanate of Oman is poised to enhance its global cultural standing with its upcoming participation in the prestigious 61st International Art Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia, scheduled from May 9 to November 22, 2026. This will mark Oman's third engagement with the renowned art event, underscoring a consistent commitment to projecting its cultural identity on the international stage. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth has commissioned a national pavilion, set to be housed at the Arsenale, one of the Biennale's primary exhibition spaces, signaling a significant investment in showcasing Omani artistic talent and perspectives.

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Oman’s participation in the 2026 Venice Biennale reflects a firm national commitment to strengthening its cultural presence on the international stage, and to positioning culture as a key pillar of soft power and a vital avenue for fostering dialogue and mutual understanding among nations.

Oman's involvement in the Venice Biennale is viewed as a strategic initiative to consolidate its international cultural presence and to leverage art as a vital platform for global engagement. The participation is intended to foster cross-cultural dialogue and exchange, positioning culture as a key element of soft power and mutual understanding among nations. This aligns with the overarching theme of the 61st edition, "In Minor Keys," which encourages a focus on subtle, human-centered expressions and layered cultural narratives. Oman's approach, as articulated by its officials, seeks to present a cultural narrative grounded in balance, attentiveness, and a deep understanding of the relationship between individuals and their environment.

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We believe Omani culture holds the power to contribute meaningfully to the global cultural discourse, offering a civilizational model that speaks to the profound depth of the Omani experience. By drawing on rooted values of moderation, balance, and openness, we seek to cultivate an international presence that is both resonant and enduring.

Officials have emphasized that Oman's participation reflects a firm national commitment to cultural diplomacy. Sayyid Saud Hilal Al Busaidi, Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth, stated that Oman aims to position culture as a vital avenue for fostering dialogue and mutual understanding. He believes Omani culture offers a unique civilizational model, rooted in moderation, balance, and openness, capable of contributing meaningfully to the global cultural discourse. Haitham Mohammed Al Busafi, Curator and Artist of the National Pavilion, expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to showcase the nuances of Omani culture through the "In Minor Keys" theme, highlighting the cultural value placed on companions, such as horses, as extensions of the self, reflecting a broader ethos of care and respect.

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Representing Oman in this global forum is an unmatched opportunity to bring forth the nuances of our deep culture through “In Minor Keys”, the theme of this Biennale, which calls for art that manifests in 'quiet tones and lower frequencies'.