London: The Sultanate of Oman is making a notable impression at the London Design Biennale 2025 with its participation running until June 29. Oman’s contribution, the creative artwork “Memory Grid” by engineer and designer Haitham Al Busafi, has won the award for best design at this global exhibition. This event aligns with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth’s efforts to promote Omani culture on an international scale and transform the nation’s cultural landscape into a hub of creativity, following the Cultural Strategy 2021-2040.
According to Oman News Agency, Ibrahim Saif Bani Oraba, Assistant Director-General of Arts, emphasized that the Ministry’s vision is to position Oman as a leader in cultural fields worldwide. These efforts are rooted in Oman Vision 2040 and the Cultural Strategy, which provide a strategic framework for the nation’s cultural pursuits.
The Ministry’s participation in the London Design Biennale 2025 ensured a significant presence, highlighting the role of Omani youth on this global stage. Engineer and designer Haitham Al Busafi was chosen to create the artwork, and Zawraq Group, a youth-led small and medium enterprise, was appointed as the pavilion’s evaluator. This move demonstrates the Ministry’s commitment to empowering young Omanis and their contributions to cultural initiatives.
Eng. Haitham Al Busafi expressed pride and gratitude upon receiving the Best Design Award for “Memory Grid.” He described it as a significant achievement for Oman, merging the nation’s heritage with a contemporary vision where tradition meets innovation.
Al Busafi explained that “Memory Grid” is an immersive installation featuring transparent, machine-crafted replicas of traditional Omani pottery arranged like data centers. This design serves as a metaphor for the fragility and exposure of the digital age, where preserving memories often compromises privacy. The installation is a living archive, inviting visitors to add their data and memories to create a shared legacy.
Za’eema Al Adawi noted that the selection of Zawraq Group as the artistic evaluator was both an opportunity and a means of empowering youth, allowing for their representation at this major artistic forum.