In the historic coastal city of Sur, located in the eastern region of Oman, the rhythms of life have long been dictated by the sea. For centuries, this Wilayat (an administrative district in Oman) was renowned as a bustling maritime hub, famous for its skilled sailors and its craftsmanship in building traditional wooden dhows. Today, that rich heritage has found a new form of global expression through the lens of Omani photographer and cinematographer Haitham Al Farsi.
His documentary film, titled Sufra Ramadan fi Sur (The Ramadan Feast of Sur), recently achieved international acclaim by winning the Best Film award in the Urban and Rural Connectivity category at the 2026 Food Film Menu competition. Organized by the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism, also known as IGCAT, based in Barcelona, Spain, the event featured a competitive field of more than one hundred entries from across the globe.
A Journey Through Oman’s Maritime Flavor
Al Farsi’s film takes viewers on a sensory and cultural journey that begins long before the evening call to prayer. The narrative opens in the early hours of the morning, tracing the steps of local fishermen as they bring in the day’s fresh catch from the Arabian Sea. The journey then moves through the bustling local spice markets, where the air is filled with the rich aromas of traditional Omani blends, before entering the warmth of family kitchens. Here, mothers and grandmothers prepare historical dishes (including fresh fish, seasoned rice, and local yogurt) that have graced Omani tables for generations.
The film culminates in the gathering of family members around the Sufra, the traditional floor mat where the Iftar (the meal to break the daily fast during the holy month of Ramadan) is served. This communal moment captures not just the food, but the deeply rooted social practices and values of hospitality that define Omani society.
Promoting Culinary Tourism Globally
According to Amira bint Iqbal Al Lawati, the Advisor to the Minister for Tourism Experience Development at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, this international victory marks a significant milestone. She noted that the ministry is actively supporting visual storytellers to showcase Omani culinary heritage. By bringing the authentic stories of Omani communities to the global stage, such initiatives help promote culinary tourism and preserve the unique identity of the country.
For Al Farsi, the award is a testament to the richness of Oman’s cultural heritage. He shared that the film aims to present the culinary arts of Sur as a living chronicle of the city’s history, showing how ancient maritime trade routes influenced the local flavors. The achievement also highlights the value of documenting local traditions, offering a window for international audiences to appreciate the authentic human experiences that define the Sultanate.
