A House of Wonders: Omani presence in Zanzibar and East Africa

By: Raya Al Maskari

CEO and founder of Omanspire works as a media specialist, quality management, and lead auditor, Raya is also a visual artist and a graphic designer.

The Ministry of Information of the Sultanate of Oman, Nizwa Magazine, and deMAX Present: Beit Al-Ajaib Documentary

The Ministry of Information of the Sultanate of Oman, Nizwa Magazine, and deMAX is set to mark a significant milestone with the inauguration of the documentary film “Beit Al-Ajaib” (The House of Wonders). Represented by Nizwa Magazine, the ministry will present the first screening of this compelling documentary at the Royal Opera House Muscat, showcasing the rich Omani heritage and cultural influence in Zanzibar and East Africa.

Beit Al-Ajaib” is a three-part documentary film that delves deep into the historical significance of the Omani presence in Zanzibar and East Africa. The film highlights the enduring impact of Omani civilization in the region and is accompanied by a book that meticulously documents the Omani cultural role in this area.

With “Beit Al-Ajaib” as the central theme of the trilogy, each part of the film runs for 50 minutes and has been produced in three languages: Arabic, English, and Swahili. This multilingual approach ensures that the message of Omani heritage and cultural influence reaches a diverse global audience.

The documentary films aim to shed light on the pioneering Omani contributions in various fields, including politics, commerce, society, and culture. They emphasize the pivotal role of Oman in spreading Islam and Arab culture throughout East Africa, illustrating the far-reaching impact of Omani civilization on the region.

Each part of the “Beit Al-Ajaib” trilogy presents a prominent historical figure within a series of interconnected political, social, and cultural events. The films were meticulously shot in diverse locations across the globe, including Zanzibar, several African and Asian countries, as well as sites in Europe, America, and the Sultanate of Oman. This global perspective serves to underline the widespread influence of Omani culture and history.

The launch of “Beit Al-Ajaib” marks a significant cultural and historical event for the Sultanate of Oman, as it showcases the country’s rich heritage and its enduring impact on the global stage. Through this documentary, the Ministry of Information aims to celebrate and preserve the invaluable contributions of Omani civilization, ensuring that its legacy continues to inspire and educate future generations both locally and internationally.


Photos by: Juma Al Maskari
Raya Al Maskari

CEO and founder of Omanspire works as a media specialist, quality management, and lead auditor, Raya is also a visual artist and a graphic designer.

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