Gulf festival Symposium

The Gulf counties are home to some extraordinary and unique festivals ranging from the Al Janadriya Festival in Saudi Arabia which showcases Saudi folklore, craft, and traditional food to the newly formed Mother of the Nation Festival in the United Arab Emirates. Festivals contribute to the sharing of culture and traditions and the festival sector provides many socio-economic benefits to their local communities.

This event is a chance for professionals from the festivals and culture sector to come together and debate the future of their industry.

What is the future of the community born festival in the age of YouTube and Netflix? What makes these festivals stand the test of time? How can the sector better promote the economic benefits of these festivals and also remain relevant to younger generations? These are just some of the questions that will be explored at the Gulf Festival Symposium, taking place in Muscat this February.

We have been researching the festival sector in the six Gulf States, and the event in Muscat will serve as the final consultation in the research process – a chance to have your views heard. 

All attendees will also get a chance to work together on a set of recommendations to strengthen the festival sector and the educational and professional opportunities within it. These will inform subsequent training to be developed by the British Council and partners, which aims to nurture and strengthen the skills of the next generation of festival professionals and leaders. We hope to see you there!

To reserve your free place at this symposium please contact Raiya.alabri@om.britshcouncil.om by January 31st. 

Spaces are limited. British Council is funding delegates attendance. If you would like to attend contact your local British Council office