SHARJAH, UAE- As Guest of Honour at the 45th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2026) at Expo Centre Sharjah, the Sultanate of Oman has highlighted its centuries-old maritime and cultural heritage. While its trade and maritime connections with the rest of the world are a primary focus of its display, equal emphasis has been placed on its people and culture, especially its women.
The most eye-catching display is a series of vertical glass showcases featuring six miniature mannequins of women in traditional Omani attire. They represent the attire typical of different regions. These include the traditional costumes of North and South Al Sharqiyah governorates. A bright red and green outfit with a shawl is symbolic of the former, while a red and brown Sur costume accentuated by heavy gold jewellery represents the latter. The Baluchi costume from Muscat and North Al Batinah governorates is also on display; the luxurious green costume with embroidery includes a lihaf (headscarf), dishdasha (tunic) and sirwal (trousers).
Women from Al Wusta governorate wear Bedouin costumes made of indigo or dark fabric and also don an Omani burqa or battoulah, which is not very different from the clothing worn in Al Buraimi and Musandam governorates. The Dhofar governorate also has a loose-cut gown, but in colourful fabrics with hand embroidery on the sleeves and edges.
Commenting on the exhibition, Fine Arts Director Amaal Muhammad explained: “We prepared this exhibition with the aid of 3D printing using ABS paper. We mean to showcase the rich culture and heritage of our country and the traditional attire we have on display has much in common with that used in the Indian subcontinent.”
She also pointed to photographs of Omani women and girls taken by well-known photographers adorning the pavilion to emphasise women’s empowerment in the country. From a woman horse rider to older women wearing the burqa, the pavilion pays homage to Oman’s rich and varied culture and heritage.
Organised by the Sharjah Book Authority, SIBF 2026 hosts 3,212 publishers and exhibitors from 126 countries, showcasing more than 1.7 million titles. The 12-day event features 1,500 cultural, creative and artistic activities, including literary discussions, author interactions, workshops, theatrical performances, the Thriller Festival and the Cookery Corner.
