Embarking on a journey towards inner peace is akin to setting sail on a serene river, where each ripple carries the promise of self-discovery and the gentle current guides the way to a harmonious existence.

As the sun gracefully ascends, a welcoming day unfolds in Oman, adorned with the spendour of Arabian hospitality. From the majestic mountains to the sun-kissed shores, every corner of this enchanting land beckons with a warmth that transcends borders. As the first rays illuminate the landscape, Omani hospitality emerges like a cherished tradition, embracing visitors with open arms. The scent of frankincense dances in the air, a fragrant overture to the genuine kindness that awaits. The embrace of an Omani day is not just a sequence of hours; it’s a symphony of generosity, respect, and a shared appreciation for the beauty of connection. Whether under the shade of date palms or within the walls of ancient forts, each day in Oman writes a new chapter in the book of hospitality, a testament to the enduring charm that makes every visitor feel not just welcome but truly at home.

Our peace journey began in Muscat, where tradition meets modernity. We had an orientation about our five-day programme, and we did a small introduction activity to introduce ourselves.

Oman Across Borders Museum.

The first day we went to the city of Sur on the Gulf of Oman, which is one of the most historic boat-building centres in Arabia. And today, artisans still hand-craft dhows of all sizes at the factory in Sur, using centuries-old techniques. By the sixth century, the city of Sur had become an important centre for trade with East Africa. Once built, these wooden ships would sail across the region—to the Persian Gulf, the Arabian Sea, the coast of East Africa, and across to India and China—for trading. From this traditional ship factory, we realised how history brings evidence to the future, and there is no great future without proud history.

After that, we had our lunch the traditional Omani way. We sat on mats around the big plates, and we ate by hand. The Arabic eating system in Oman reflects cultural values and traditions. Meals often emphasise communal dining, with an emphasis on hospitality. Traditional Omani cuisine includes dishes like rice, meat, and fish, flavoured with a blend of spices. We often had dates and coffee as a gesture of welcome. Observing these customs can provide insights into Omani culture, emphasising the significance of sharing meals and the role of food in social connections.

The second day morning began with the inspirations of the first day. Experiencing a serene sunrise at Ras Al Hadd Beach evoked a profound sense of peace and tranquility. After that, we experienced dune bashing in Omanin Bidiyah, on the edge of the Sharqiyah Sands, which is located some 233km from Muscat. Wilayat Bidiyah is a beautiful oasis located at the entrance of Sharqiyah Sands. It is considered a starting point to explore the depths of the sand and enter a world full of excitement and vitality, away from the bustle of the city and a change from daily routines. Bidiyah is a collection of villages at the edge of the Sharqiyah Sands. Home to Bedouin people from the desert, it is the perfect place to experience traditional camel or horse races.

We participated in some outdoor games which taught us valuable lessons, including teamwork, communication, problem-solving, leadership, and the importance of collaboration. We then climbed a small mountain in the desert to see the sunset. Witnessing a sunset in the desert evokes a unique blend of awe and tranquilly as vibrant hues paint the vast landscape, creating a moment of stillness and wonder. That evening, we had a star observation session. Observing night stars in the desert could teach lessons about the vastness of the universe, the beauty of natural phenomena, and the significance of perspective. It may also encourage introspection and a sense of humility in the face of the cosmos. We learned how to find directions through the stars. It was a great activity to feel calm at the end of a tiring day.

The next day, we went to the mountain Jebel Akhdar. The Jebel Akhdar, or Al Jabal Al Akhdar (‘The Green Mountain’), is one of the Hajar Mountains of Oman. It rises to a height of 2,980m and encompasses the Saiq Plateau at 2,000 m above sea level. Jebel Akhdar is famous for its labyrinth of wadis and terraced orchards, where pomegranates, apricots, and roses grow in abundance due to its mild Mediterranean climate. At Jebel Akhdar, we hiked through huge stones, saw beautiful landscapes and natural wonders – all of which made the journey worthwhile. Hiking in Jebel Akhdar Mountain on a cold night climate with friends is a unique adventure. The crisp air and starry sky create a serene atmosphere as you ascend. The group and shared excitement add to the experience, making it memorable.

Another day morning, we left from Jabal al Akhdar and reached our next destination, the Oman Across Ages Museum. It is a new national museum that celebrates the creation of a nation, praises human endeavour, and inspires young Omanis to connect to their rich history. It was a journey through Oman’s past to the present and an insight into its future. We learned about different ages, dynasties, and civilizations. We also explored Nizwa Souq. The site of one of the oldest souqs in Oman Nizwa Souq is a vibrant marketplace in Oman, known for its cultural significance and traditional Omani goods.

Youth cohort hiking at mountain Jebel Akhdar.

Finally, we came to the end of our journey. Our last stop was to a youth centre in Oman. The Centre, located in Muscat Grand Mall, offers a variety of training programmes for young people in Oman. Additionally, the Centre in Muscat offers a space and various facilities for young people to use free of charge. This included a photography studio, an audio recording studio, an art space, a table tennis hall, a 3D printing lab, a drone lab, and a music hall with musical instruments. In addition to a reference library with over 600 titles, including braille and audiobooks for those who are visually or hearing impaired.

As part of the program, we also attended the Global Consultation on the Role of Traditional Leaders and Actors, led by the UN Office on Genocide Prevention and the Responsibility to Protect and the Network for Religious and Traditional Peacemakers. There were 60 traditional leaders from over twenty countries, who were finalizing a plan of action for the role of traditional actors in preventing atrocity crimes.

Finally, we also were able to take part in the Youth, Religion and Mediation course. We learned about:

• world views
• dimensions of religion
• guidelines and principles of mediation
• comparison of mediation models (insider and outsider)
• mediation context mapping tools
• pre-mediation steps; and
• advantages and disadvantages of different levels of religious authorities.

The conclusion of the 10-day programme marked a significant milestone in our’ journey, characterised by notable gains in knowledge and skill acquisition. Over the course of the programme, we engaged in a variety of activities, including lectures, workshops, and practical exercises. These sessions were meticulously structured to cover key concepts, encourage critical thinking, and facilitate the hands-on application of acquired knowledge. The diverse range of learning methodologies employed ensured a well-rounded educational experience.