Oman's art scene is buzzing with life! While still in its nascent stages, it is experiencing an exhilarating period of growth and recognition, fueled by the passion and ingenuity of its local creatives. Notably, women artists are at the forefront of this evolution. Their fresh perspectives and modern approaches are garnering increasing attention both within Oman and on the international stage.

1993 was a game-changer for Oman's art scene when the Omani Fine Art Society (OFAS) was founded. It marked a significant leap forward for women in the arts, paving the way for them to shine.

Fast forward to 2022, Omani women were making waves on the global stage at the Venice Biennale, showcasing their talents in the country's debut national pavilion. This was a powerful display of artistic prowess, featuring three generations of Omani artists. The event was a testament to the country's thriving contemporary art scene, with women at the forefront, pushing boundaries and redefining what's possible.

While the statistics from the National Centre for Statistics and Information of Oman reveal fluctuations in the overall number of participants in painting and graphics presentations, the narrative on the ground speaks of a burgeoning movement. The considerable surge in 2022 participation highlights a dynamic and evolving interest in the visual arts. This energy is further evidenced by the emergence of new galleries and the increasing involvement of young artists who fearlessly explore new artistic expressions.

Recognising this potential, the Ministry of Culture, Sport and Youth has launched various initiatives to promote emerging talents and foster a thriving artistic ecosystem.

In 2025, the Omani art scene stands at an exciting crossroads, brimming with potential and driven by the innovative spirit of its local creatives.

Join The Sandy Times to delve into the work of eight remarkable Omani artists who are shaping this dynamic landscape, each contributing their voice and vision to the Sultanate's growing artistic identity.

Before the Oman cultural scene blossomed, there was Susan Al Said. A visionary with an unwavering passion for art, she laid the very foundation for countless emerging artists. This helped the artists to find their voice and share their different perspectives with the world. As the driving force behind Bait Muzna, Oman's first art gallery, Al Said didn't just open a space, she ignited a movement.

Bait Muzna became more than just four walls showcasing paintings and sculptures. It transformed into a launchpad for young talents from Oman, offering them invaluable opportunities to exhibit their creations on home soil and gain exposure on the international stage through art fairs.

But Al Said's commitment to nurturing creativity doesn't end there. She recognised the power of visual storytelling and established Bait Muzna for Art Film. This institution is a crucial hub for fostering local and regional filmmakers — the Omani filmmakers to watch — and encourages exploring the evolving landscapes of media, photography and art film. By championing these diverse artistic disciplines, Al Said is actively enriching the cultural tapestry of Oman and fostering a spirit of innovation that extends far beyond its borders.

Born in the intellectually stimulating environment of Sohar, surrounded by science and literature, Ali Al-Jabri discovered his artistic calling early through the simple act of playing with clay. This childhood fascination changed into a lifelong dedication to sculpture. The journey solidified in 2012 when he found his passion in the timeless medium of marble. 

Al-Jabri's dedication and mastery have won significant recognition, including the exalted Iktissaa prize at the First Gulf Festival for Visual Arts in Riyadh (2013) and the grand prize at the Annual Exhibition of Plastic Arts by The Omani Society for Fine Arts (2012).

Al-Jabri is a prominent figure among Oman's emerging artists. His evocative sculptures have transcended geographical boundaries, enthralling audiences in numerous solo and group exhibitions across countries like Bahrain, France, Jordan and Spain. Beyond his artistic practice, Al-Jabri actively contributes to the intellectual growth of the Oman cultural scene by engaging in research within the plastic arts and initiating programs.

Meet Mays Al Moosawi, a visual artist from the heart of Muscat who bravely charted her own course, transforming a passion ignited during her BA in Illustration from Coventry, UK, into a thriving full-time artistic career. As one of the compelling Omani creatives, Mays' artistic voice is distinctly her own, centred around powerful portrayals of the female figure. Her inspiration is deeply rooted in her personal observations of women within her society and beyond, shaped by the narratives, vulnerabilities, and obstacles they navigate.

Through her evocative illustrations, she gives visual form to the stories, insecurities and challenges that have profoundly marked her childhood and the experiences of women in her community. Her work offers a sensual and intimate celebration of the female body, positioning women as the central focus of her artistic exploration. 

Stepping onto the music scene in 2018 with his debut EP "Downtime," and it has been a wild ride ever since. Adam Nabeel has quickly proven himself as a distinctive voice among Omani artists. This talented artist and producer seamlessly blends the rhythms of Afrofusion with the rich melodies of Arabic sounds and the smooth grooves of R&B, creating a sonic mosaic that captivates listeners. 

Through dedicated practice in singing, song writing, and production, Adam collaborated with Dubai-based producer AY The Producer, a partnership that elevated his project, Downtime, to new heights. 

As one of the prominent rising musicians from Oman, Adam has consistently evolved, delivering remarkable music across various projects and proudly representing his region. His versatility shines through in releases like the cathartic afro-fusion track Devil In Her Ear and the alluring R&B vibe of Like That, demonstrating his ability to tap into diverse sonic landscapes. 

Mohammed Al-Attar, better known as Mimoon, whose imaginative prowess conjures whimsical and fantastical characters reminiscent of beloved Disney films. This extraordinary illustrator and a lawyer, seamlessly crafts original beings that exude playful otherworldliness through his distinctive strokes and mesmerising colour palettes.

Growing up feeling like an imaginative outsider, Mimoon found solace and inspiration in cartoons, sketching his own renditions of animated figures. Over time, this passion evolved as he honed his skills, bringing his creatures to life through watercolours and digital mediums. As one of the contemporary artists in Oman, Mimoon’s artwork often reflects personal struggles, touching upon relatable themes of self-care and self-reflection.

Today, Mimoon has become an influential figure, featured in publications and on Oman TV. He actively fosters the art and design scene in Muscat by running a weekly art club and is currently working on his own art book.

Behold the digital artistry of Muayad Al-Fanna, a master of photo manipulation and undoubtedly one of the leading artists. Graduating with a Photography degree from the Higher College of Technology, Muayad began on an unwavering artistic journey, dedicating himself to the intricate world of Photoshop. His vivid and mind-bending concepts have gained widespread acclaim, even earning recognition from the Ministry of Tourism.

What sets Muayad apart as an emerging artist in Oman? It is his seamless fusion of genres within both his photography and digital creations, a testament to his innovative approach that is visible in recent renowned campaigns. Much of his work delves into dreamlike aesthetics and high-concept depictions that capture the essence of Omani culture. His poignant tribute to the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said went viral for its impeccable artistry. 

His strong expression of love for his hometown of Sur, and it shows. His Safinat Fath Al Kheir left a lasting impact and his latest project, Sahwa, inspired by an iconic landmark, is yet another marvel to behold. His exceptional talent and ability to create visually stunning and culturally resonant compositions firmly position him as one of the top emerging artists in Oman. 

Alia Al-Farsi seamlessly integrates elements of her native heritage (such as artefacts and coins) into her captivating artworks, creating an amazing dialogue between the past and the present. Her artistic journey has taken her globally, with exhibitions in prestigious cities like Paris and Seoul.

Alia has set up her own namesake gallery, Alia Gallery. This groundbreaking space and the largest private art gallery in Oman is an important platform to promote the talent of emerging artists in Oman. 

Located in Muscat's industrial area, her gallery not only displays a diverse collection of her own works, from large-scale acrylic paintings to innovative upcycled pieces, but also actively contributes to the growth and recognition of the local art scene, embodying the spirit of a genuine creative entrepreneur. 

Operating between London and Oman, Eman Ali is a compelling photographer and visual artist. She is using her lens to delve into the profound intersections of religious, socio-political, and consumerist ideologies, particularly as they relate to desire and gender performance within the Gulf region.

As one of the thought-provoking artists, Eman Ali’s artistic endeavours offer insightful perspectives on the nuanced lived experiences of women in contemporary Arab society.

Through her powerful imagery and multidisciplinary approach, she sheds light on the convoluted facets of womanhood, examining the challenges and aspirations of women in the Arab world today. 

Her work serves as a subversive critique of gender and sexuality performances across the Arabian Peninsula and beyond, offering a platform for crucial dialogue and reflection on the complex interplay of gender, culture and societal expectations within Oman culture.