The magic of the Sultanate of Oman came to life in the heart of Budapest at the historic Uránia National Film Theatre. The “Omani Film Night” was far more than a simple screening series; it was a high-profile cultural diplomacy event born from a unique Hungarian-Omani collaboration, bringing the spirit of the Omani mountains and emerald waters to the Hungarian capital.
Diplomacy and cinematic art
The evening was graced by the presence of H.E. Malallah bin Mahmoud Al Balushi, Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to Hungary. In his opening remarks, the Ambassador emphasised that cinema is one of the most powerful tools for dialogue, understanding, and tolerance. The event was organised by the Oman Film Society to mark the anniversary of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik’s accession to the throne, in close cooperation with the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman in Hungary.
“This initiative goes beyond film screenings; it is a platform for cultural dialogue that strengthens the ties between our two nations,” added Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Ajmi, Chairman of the Oman Film Society.
Malallah bin Mahmoud Al Balushi, Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Ajmi, Fahad Al Maimani. Photo: Omani Film Night
A multidimensional cultural experience
The program offered a complex journey into the heart of Omani heritage:
Photography Exhibition: Organised in collaboration with the Photography Club of the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Muscat, the gallery showcased images reflecting everyday life, the breathtaking landscapes, and the rich human heritage of Oman.
Panel Discussion: Moderated by Fahad Al Maimani, Director of the Local and International Cooperation Committee, with popular Hungarian actor Balázs Csórics; the Hungarian audience and Omani filmmakers discussed industry challenges and future opportunities for co-production and knowledge exchange.
Yaqoub All Khanjari, Fahad al Maimani, Ali Said Al Baimani, Balázs Csórics. Photo: Omani Film Night
Live Music: Sulaiman Al Kindi, a master of the oud, performed traditional pieces, providing an authentic atmosphere that echoed the musical traditions of the Omani coast and mountains.
Sulaiman Al Kindi. Photo: Omani Film NightSulaiman Al Kindi. Photo: Omani Film Night
The visionary behind the event
This successful cultural exchange would not have been possible without the dedication of a Hungarian creator. The original idea and the lead organisation of the event are credited to Tamás Dombóvári, a renowned Hungarian photographer.
Dombóvári holds a unique position that bridges the two cultures: he is currently a lecturer of Photography Department at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences in Muscat. Furthermore, he serves as a member of the Local and International Committee of the Oman Film Society. His expertise and deep connection to both countries were instrumental in bringing the best of Omani cinema to the Hungarian public.
Tamás Dombovári. Photo: Omani Film Night
Eight stories from the Sultanate
The screenings featured eight Omani short films, demonstrating a wide range of technical and narrative diversity. The audience enjoyed works such as Flaming Souls (Yaqoub All Khanjari), Black Liver (Mohammed Al Ghafri), Dahjan al Ward (Mohammed al Ajmi), Long Distances (Ali Said Al Baimani and Hamad Al Qasabi), Ramad (Sulaiman Al Khalili), Water Religion (Haitham Al Musallami), Never Dive Alone (Fahad al Maimani) and Delusion (Issa Al Subhi).
This event proved that art and personal professional relationships can bridge thousands of miles, laying the foundation for a lasting and fruitful creative partnership between Hungary and the Sultanate of Oman.
You can follow the event and see more highlights on Instagram!
Photo: Omani Film NightPhoto: Omani Film NightPhoto: Omani Film Night
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