AGP Executive Report

Oman & Hormuz Diplomacy: Oman’s new Hormuz proposal is gaining attention as Iran and Saudi back a fresh diplomatic push, with Iran’s FM Abbas Araghchi also holding calls with Omani and Saudi counterparts on Strait of Hormuz security and safe shipping. Work & Youth Horizons: In Salalah, Oman launched the Work Horizons Forum under Labour Forum 2026, focusing on moving people from social assistance toward formal employment, while a Dhofar summer programme “My Summer: Learning and Innovation” opens across five centres for 300 students. Sports Development: Oman Sail’s Ras Al Hadd summer training camp is midway as sailors train for upcoming regional events; the Oman Skating Sports Committee expands “Our Summer… Skating” across multiple wilayats; and the Oman Football Association rolls out an AFC Fitness Coaching Certificate Level 1B course for coaches. Regional Sports Spotlight: Qatar kept momentum in the FIBA U18 Gulf Qualifiers with an 81-53 win over Kuwait, tightening the race alongside Bahrain and Oman. Media & Lifestyle: Harbour Rights continues expanding factual TV deals, with Oman Air licensing Korean and Chinese series episodes and other broadcasters picking up wildlife, food and travel content.

Oman Education & Youth: Dhofar launched “My Summer: Learning and Innovation,” a 300-student programme running across five centres until Aug. 6, mixing science, media, sports, arts, culture, entrepreneurship and volunteer activities. Sports Development: Oman Skating Sports Committee expanded its summer training across Al Seeb, Ibri, Al Rustaq, Al Buraimi and Dhank, with both roller and ice sessions at Snow Oman and Boulevard Al Seeb. Sailing & Football Coaching: Oman Sail’s Ras Al Hadd camp continues through Aug. 19 to sharpen national sailors’ skills, while the Oman Football Association rolled out the AFC Fitness Coaching Certificate Level 1B to upgrade coach fitness know-how. Labour Policy in Salalah: The 2026 Labour Forum opened to discuss moving from social assistance toward safer, sustainable employment, with Oman’s Social Protection Fund and the National Employment Policy in focus. Culture & Community: The Omanhen of Mankessim Traditional Area donated musical instruments to two local groups to support youth music talent. Regional Arts-Adjacent Note: A standout Omani metal-sculpture feature highlighted how one artist turns scrap into kinetic, story-driven artworks.

Gulf Basketball: Qatar kicked off the FIBA U18 Asia Cup Gulf Qualifiers in Doha with an 80-76 win over Saudi Arabia, led by Abdullah Yassin’s 24 points, while Bahrain thrashed Kuwait 106-51 as the tournament’s top teams chase direct berths. Oman Sailing: Oman Sail’s Summer Training Camp in Ras Al Hadd (10 July–19 August) is in full swing, bringing 57 national sailors plus visiting teams to sharpen skills across Optimist, ILCA 4/6/7 and 29er fleets ahead of key regional events. Hormuz Talks (Oman in the spotlight): Iran says it has no direct talks with the U.S., but confirms discussions with Oman on “mechanisms” to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for shipping, as a U.S.-Iran pause in strikes continues and mediators push for renewed negotiations. Sports Streaming (regional interest): Nepal take on Namibia in the ICC CWC League 2 in Utrecht, with Oman’s position in the points race noted as the leg continues.

Oman–Hormuz Diplomacy: The U.S. paused strikes on Iran for a second straight day, with Tehran also signaling it’s holding back, as talks with Oman focus on reopening safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Regional Energy Pressure: Analysts warn the conflict is pushing markets toward “no way out” scenarios as shipping chokepoints tighten beyond Hormuz, with Red Sea risks also rising. Oman Sports Spotlight (Basketball): Oman kicked off the FIBA U18 Asia Cup Gulf Qualifiers with a dramatic 62–59 comeback win over Kuwait after trailing 40–29 at halftime, setting up a key run in Doha (July 25–30). Oman Sports Spotlight (Football Tourism): Dhofar’s Khareef season is being pitched as a future hub for international sports training camps, with former players calling for upgraded facilities and athlete-focused support. Arts & Culture (Fashion): A new Muscat thrift concept, “Tchiikago,” is set to open this August as Oman’s first Omani-owned walk-in thrift store, blending pre-loved fashion with reconstructed designs and donation-for-credit.

Oman Youth Development: Oman launched the third edition of its Military Discipline Programme at the Military Technological College in Muscat, bringing together 1,000+ students for training in discipline, first aid, teamwork, leadership, and workshops on citizenship, AI, and entrepreneurship. Regional Diplomacy: Iran says talks with Oman on operational mechanisms for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz are “productive,” while insisting there’s been no change to transit status. Maritime Security: The US says its blockade against Iran remains in full effect, redirecting 12 vessels and disabling two that failed to comply, including actions in the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Oman. Sports (Oman in focus): Oman and Bahrain kicked off the FIBA U18 Asia Cup Gulf Qualifiers with wins—Oman rallying to beat Kuwait 62-59—setting up a busy qualifier run across Doha. Youth Hockey (Oman-linked coverage): India won the FIH Youth Hockey5s Asian Championship in Muscat, beating Pakistan 3-1 in the gold medal match, while India’s women finished runners-up to China.

FIBA U18 Gulf Qualifiers: Oman and Bahrain kicked off their campaigns in Doha with wins—Oman stunned Kuwait 62-59 after an 11-point halftime deficit, while Bahrain edged Saudi Arabia 62-54 to top the standings. Sports Training Push for Dhofar: Former Omani football stars say Salalah could become a regional hub for international sports camps, but only with upgraded facilities, elite athlete accommodation, and stronger marketing. Oman Club Course: Oman Club wrapped up a financial management training course for sports institutions, aiming to boost sustainability and better reporting skills across the sector. Omani Fashion, Thrift With a Twist: A new Muscat thrift concept, “Tchiikago,” is set to open in August as Oman’s first Omani-owned walk-in thrift store, mixing pre-loved fashion with reconstructed designs and donation-for-credit swaps. Pakistan Hockey5s Setback: Pakistan’s youth hockey team was penalised after six players entered the five-a-side pitch, helping India win 7-3 over Oman in Muscat. Music & Politics: Katy Perry criticised the White House for using her song “Firework” in a video tied to Iran strikes, saying she wasn’t asked and doesn’t support the message.

Oman & Gulf Sports: Oman’s esports scene stays hot as Saleh al Ghassani wins the EA SPORTS FC 26 Top Esports Tournament at CineSport in Al Muzn Mall, beating Faher al Kindi 8-6 on aggregate. Regional Basketball: Gulf U18 basketball qualifiers kick off in Doha (July 25-30) with Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman chasing three FIBA Asia U-18 spots. Asian Games Cricket (Oman in the mix): At the FIH Youth Hockey5s Asian Championship in Muscat, India thrashed Oman 10-1 and then beat Pakistan 7-3, while Oman’s presence also shows up in Asian Games cricket group play. Arts & Culture (Oman-linked): Oman’s creative calendar gets a boost with local festival and heritage programming continuing to roll out across the week. Big World Noise: US-Iran tensions keep dominating headlines, with strikes expanding beyond maritime targets and diplomacy uncertain.

Oman esports: Saleh al Ghassani won the EA SPORTS FC 26 title at Oman’s Top Esports Tournament, beating Faher al Kindi 8-6 on aggregate in a final at CineSport in Al Muzn Mall, with trophies presented by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth’s Sports Care and Development director-general. Gulf basketball pathway: The FIBA Asia U-18 qualifiers tip off in Qatar today (July 25–30), with Oman taking on Kuwait in the opening fixtures as five teams chase three spots for the continental finals in Ahmedabad. Asian Games cricket draw: Oman is placed in the men’s preliminary group alongside Hong Kong and Malaysia, while India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka go straight to the knockout stage; the women’s quarter-finals include India vs Japan. Regional arts & culture (Oman-linked): Oman prepares for major khareef-season cultural programming, including events tied to Dhofar’s growing festival calendar and visitor push.

Oman Culture & Festivals: Dhofar’s Khareef 2026 is turning Atin Square into a nightly hub of international shows, Arab music, comedy, food and shopping, with the Dhofar Municipality rolling out 125 cultural, artistic, sporting and entertainment events across the governorate until August 31. Omani Music & Heritage: The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth announced a second Omani Chanting Festival in Al Dakhiliyah in October, aiming to spotlight chanters aged 18–39 through 4–7 minute entries on spiritual, national or moral themes. Sports (Oman on the move): Oman is set for a 10-sport push at the Asian Games in Japan, with cricket, hockey, shooting, beach volleyball, fencing, weightlifting, athletics, sailing, golf and taekwondo among the likely disciplines. Regional Youth Basketball: Oman’s U18 basketball team has arrived in Qatar for the GCC Championship, while Bahrain’s U18 squad also heads to Doha for the qualifying event tied to FIBA’s Asia pathway. Cricket Draw (Asian Games 2026): India’s women will face hosts Japan in quarterfinals, while the men’s teams’ knockout route is set after the draw confirmed seeded entries and preliminary groups that include Oman. Global Arts/Media: beIN and the French Tennis Federation extended their Roland-Garros broadcasting deal through 2031 across MENA and Asia.

Omani Culture: The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth announced the second Omani Chanting Festival in Al Dakhiliyah this October, targeting ages 18–39 with 4–7 minute entries on spiritual, national or moral themes (submission window runs until 29 August). Oman Sports & eSports: Oman Games and eSports Committee wrapped up the two-day “Al Qima” summit championship, with 16 players competing across governorates; Lou’ay Al Saadi won, followed by Saleh Al Ghasani and Fahd Al Kindi. Regional Sports (Oman in the mix): Oman’s cricket path at the Asian Games 2026 is now clearer after the official draw, while the women’s quarterfinals set India vs Japan and the men’s event includes Oman in Group B qualifiers. Global Arts/Entertainment: FFT and beIN extended their Roland-Garros broadcasting deal through 2031 across MENA and Asia. Energy & Security Backdrop: Oil jumped to around $100 as Red Sea tensions widened after Houthi claims of attacks on Saudi tankers, with markets watching both Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb routes.

Roland-Garros on beIN: The French Tennis Federation and beIN Media Group have extended their exclusive Roland-Garros broadcasting deal across 34 territories, covering 2027–2031 editions. Basketball Pathway: Doha will host Gulf qualifiers for the FIBA U18 Asian Championship at Al Gharafa Sports Hall (July 25–30), with Oman among the five teams chasing three spots. Dhofar Tourism: Oman’s Salalah Eye observation wheel is set to open August 15 at Al Haffa Beach, with 55-metre views, RO7 tickets, and daily Khareef-season operations. Khareef Events Push: Vodafone Oman launches “Dhofar, Full of Wonder” with music, food and cultural activities at key hotspots plus app-based challenges and prizes. Sports Medicine Spotlight: Aspetar’s Surgery Observer Programme drew 69 international observers worldwide, highlighting Doha’s sports surgery training centre. Oman Volleyball Glory: Oman won the West Asia Volleyball Championship title in Muscat, beating Qatar 3–0 in the final. Media Milestone: Shabab Radio marks its 23rd anniversary, celebrating its youth-focused Arabic FM presence since 2003.

Oman Tourism & Leisure: Dhofar’s new headline attraction, the Salalah Eye observation wheel, is set to open on August 15 at Al Haffa Beach, standing 55 metres high with 30 air-conditioned cabins and OMR7 tickets (OMR28 for private family cabins). Khareef Culture & Community: Vodafone Oman launched its “Dhofar, Full of Wonder” campaign for Khareef, bringing music, food and cultural events to key hotspots and adding app-based challenges with weekly prizes. Sports Spotlight (Oman): Oman’s men’s national volleyball team won the West Asian title in Muscat, beating Qatar 3-0, while Oman also hosted the West Asian Men’s Volleyball Championship that crowned the home side. Youth & Sports Pathways: Oman and four other Gulf teams will play FIBA U-18 Gulf qualifiers in Qatar (July 25–30), with top finishers advancing to the U-18 Asian Championship in India. Media & Youth Voice: Shabab Radio marks its 23rd anniversary, celebrating its role as a youth-focused Arabic FM station. Education & Safety: Indian Schools Oman issued heat-safety directives after parent concerns, suspending outdoor activities and tightening hydration and air-conditioning checks. Broadcasting Deal: beIN and the French Tennis Federation extended their Roland Garros broadcasting partnership through 2031 across 34 territories.

World Kiswahili Day in Muscat: Tanzania’s ambassador to Oman urged Kiswahili to boost trade and investment links with East Africa, highlighting Oman’s deep Kiswahili ties and the language’s role in peace and solidarity. Heat safety for students: Indian Schools Oman suspended all outdoor activities (PE, sports, morning assemblies) and ordered hydration breaks, chilled hygienic water, and mandatory AC checks/repairs as classes reopen in peak summer. Oman youth and global exchange: A Youth Development for a Shared Future Summer Camp brought 84 students and teachers from 16 countries to Beijing and Fujian for cultural exchange and Maritime Silk Road learning. Oman Sail women’s sailing: Oman Sail announced the 3rd Arab Women’s Sailing Championship (15–21 Oct 2026) at Barceló Mussanah Resort, with registration open. Sports spotlight: Oman’s national volleyball team hit its highest world ranking (69th), while Oman’s youth handball team fell to Bahrain 33-23 ahead of its final match vs Chinese Taipei. Regional tensions: US strikes on Iran continued with air defences reported in Tehran, as the Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint for shipping and oil prices.

Oman Sports Spotlight: Oman’s volleyball momentum keeps rising as the national men’s senior team hits a best-ever world ranking (69th), with a push to climb further if they win the West Asian Championship and secure key continental qualification. Khareef & Community Tech: Oman Broadband Company is rolling out “Experience the Speed… Go Fibre” across Khareef Dhofar 2026, with hands-on fibre awareness and an Oman Broadband Gaming Zone kicking off July 25 at Al Haffa Market. Women’s Sailing: Oman Sail confirms the 3rd Arab Women’s Sailing Championship will run 15–21 October 2026 at Barceló Mussanah Resort, with registration open for Optimist and ILCA classes. Desert Safety Culture: Oman’s 4x4 desert adventure scene is getting more structured, with stronger vehicle checks, recovery gear, and safety briefings to reduce breakdowns and accidents. Arts & Culture (Oman-linked): A modern reimagining of Omani narrative through visual arts highlights how oral literature is being translated into new creative forms. Regional Sports Buzz: Oman’s youth handball team falls to Bahrain 33–23, then turns focus to Chinese Taipei. Global Arts/Entertainment: Box office headlines include Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey leading worldwide, while Stephen Chow’s Kung Fu Soccer scores big in China.

Women’s Sport in Oman: Oman Sail will host the 3rd Arab Women’s Sailing Championship from 15–21 October 2026 at Barceló Mussanah Resort, with registration now open and classes including Optimist, ILCA 4 and ILCA 6. Oman Outdoors & Culture: Oman’s youth desert 4×4 hobby is getting more safety-focused, with better vehicle prep, rescue gear and structured briefings to protect the desert environment. Oman Arts & Heritage: A new piece explores how Oman’s oral literature is being reimagined through photography, cinema and contemporary visual art—turning heritage symbols and memory into modern creative language. World Cup Fever in Muscat: After Spain beat Argentina in the FIFA World Cup final, Muscat’s Spanish community celebrated across hotels, cafés and offices, while many fans reported late starts the next morning. Global Film Buzz: Universal’s The Odyssey topped the weekend box office globally, while Stephen Chow’s Kung Fu Soccer also surged with a big China run.

Oman & Gulf Arts/Culture: Oman’s visual artists are reimagining oral literature—turning Omani storytelling into contemporary photography and cinema that keeps heritage symbols alive while staying open to modern language. World Cup in Oman: Football fever hit Muscat hard after Spain beat Argentina for the FIFA World Cup 2026 title, with Spanish fans celebrating at hotels, cafés and fan zones—plus a ripple effect on Monday morning attendance. Omani Creative Spotlight: Emirati artist Moza Almatrooshi’s “ballad” blends studio life with pop-up dining, pairing landscape storytelling with community art and local craft-made dishware. Family Arts Abroad (regional): Louvre Abu Dhabi’s Children’s Museum opened “A Board Game Adventure,” using interactive play to trace how games traveled across ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia and Edo-period Japan. Community Music Event: Oman’s Royal Army of Oman Pipe Band was among international acts competing at a major pipe band day in Scotland, highlighting cross-regional cultural ties. Regional Disruption (context): Renewed US-Iran strikes and Strait of Hormuz tensions are also reshaping travel and shipping rhythms across the Gulf, including flight rescheduling and higher fuel costs.