Oman Youth Sail Training Ship (Safinat Shabab Oman) programme for peace and sustainable cultural dialogue

Selected in 2024 on the Register of Good Safeguarding Practices

The Oman Youth Sail Training Ship programme for peace and sustainable cultural dialogue actively contributes to introducing Oman’s intangible cultural heritage to the rest of the world. To date, it has made eighteen voyages reaching more than fifty-five countries. The programme, which is financed by the State, aims to enrich the traditional sailing experience and preserve it as a global cultural legacy while using it as a means to share living heritage practised in Oman with other parts of the world. Young people of all genders participate in the ship’s voyages and the coordination of the cultural events held on board, in close collaboration with practitioners of various elements of living heritage, such as arts, literature and traditional crafts. The participating youth are encouraged to act as cultural ambassadors for their country. They also receive training on traditional sailing skills and participate in international sailing festivals and races. The programme thus contributes to the transmission of cultural heritage. Participation in the programmes counts towards accredited university hours, ensuring its sustainability for future generations. The Oman Youth Sail Training ship highlights the role of culture in promoting dialogue and communication between peoples. It also emphasizes the importance of preserving intangible cultural heritage and promoting global cultural diversity.