BY MOHAMMAD TARIQUE SALEEM, MUSCAT
My recent visit to the Wilayat of Adam on November 19, 2025, unfolded like a living chapter of Omani history. What began as a formal reception soon transformed into a profound journey into the spirit of the nation, guided by the grace, hospitality, and deep cultural insight of His Excellency Dr. Mohammad Al Mahri, Wali of Adam. The programme, held at the Government Office in the Governorate of Adam Province, revealed the soul of a land where heritage is cherished as a living force.
From the very moment we arrived, Dr. Al Mahri set a tone that was both warm and deeply meaningful. With a sincerity that immediately resonated, he reminded us that Adam is not merely a geographical point in central Oman; it is a cradle of identity, a land where culture, knowledge, and values have thrived for centuries. As he spoke, it became evident that Adam’s history is inseparable from Oman’s evolution as a unified and resilient nation. One of the most powerful moments of his address came when he highlighted Adam’s enduring connection to Imam Ahmad bin Said Al Busaidi, the founder of the Al Busaidi state. It was here, in Adam, that the Imam was born and nurtured, among people renowned for their integrity, discipline, and wisdom.
Listening to Dr. Al Mahri describe the Imam’s courage, fairness, and commitment to unity, I could feel the pride and reverence that the people of Adam continue to hold for him. His legacy is not confined to historical texts; it lives in the rhythm of daily life, in the values passed down from generation to generation. As we walked through the Wilayat, the weight of this history was tangible. Harat Al Busaid, home to the historic residence of Imam Ahmad, stands as a silent yet powerful witness to the early life of a leader who restored Oman’s strength and identity.
The structure, with its traditional elements and modest grandeur, felt like a portal into the past. Standing there, I could imagine the young Imam treading the same pathways, shaped by the very environment and community that fostered his character. The programme itself beautifully blended reverence for heritage with the vibrancy of living culture. After the official reception, traditional songs performed with infectious enthusiasm. The melodies carried the stories of ancestors who preserved Adam’s cultural soul through poetry, music, and art. The atmosphere was a celebration, not just of history, but of identity.
Another memorable experience was our visit to the House of Sheikh Ali Al Mahrouqi. This architectural jewel offered another window into Adam’s past. Its courtyards, carved wooden doors, and traditional layout spoke of a lifestyle grounded in dignity, simplicity, and strong communal values. For many of us, this stop was a highlight, an intimate encounter with the architectural and social spirit of old Oman.
As the visit drew to an end, one statement from Dr. Al Mahri continued to echo in my mind: “We welcome you to Adam: the land of authenticity, the cradle of leaders, and an enduring oasis of Omani history.” After experiencing the Wilayat firsthand, these words felt undeniably true. Adam is not just a place, it is a narrative that continues to enrich the nation’s identity.
Our journey continued with the visit of Oman Across Ages Museum in the Wilayat of Manah, near the historic city of Nizwa. The museum offered an immersive voyage through Oman’s long and remarkable journey, from the earliest settlements to the modern renaissance. As we entered the museum’s expansive halls, we were instantly struck by the architectural brilliance and the storytelling embedded in every exhibit.
Through interactive galleries, rare manuscripts, archaeological treasures, and cutting-edge digital installations, we witnessed the evolution of Omani civilization, its tribal structures, its influential leaders, and its milestones of state-building. Particularly moving was the way the museum honors the vision of the late Sultan Qaboos and the nation’s continuing progress under Sultan Haitham.
The journey concluded at the iconic Nizwa Fort, where history rises from every stone. Standing tall with its impressive circular tower, the fort remains one of Oman’s most commanding heritage sites. As guides narrated stories of Nizwa as a center of scholarship, governance, and trade, we explored hidden passages, defense chambers, and traditional rooms that painted a vivid picture of life in earlier centuries. Returning from this enriching journey, I carried with me not just memories, but a deeper understanding of a nation that honors its past while confidently shaping its future. Oman, truly, is a tapestry woven across ages, resilient, proud, and eternally inspiring.
