Who is Haitham bin Tariq? 5 things you need to know about the new Sultan of Oman

January 12, 2020January 12, 2020Leave a comment

We were deeply saddened yesterday to learn of the passing of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said, the Head of State and visionary leader of the Sultanate of Oman. After almost 50 years as Sultan, Qaboos leaves behind a legacy of economic and social development, regional peace-making, and an Omani culture with kindness and tolerance at its heart. Oman’s new Sultan Haitham bin Tariq was sworn into power in Muscat on Saturday. Here are five things you need to know about the new Sultan of Oman...

Introducing… The Souq

November 20, 2019January 14, 20205 Comments

Since Pink Jinn began in 2015, we’ve tried to showcase the beauty and complexities of an often misunderstood part of the world – the Middle East and North Africa. A driving force behind Pink Jinn has been to encourage people to visit the region, to get to know its people, experience its cultures and form … Continue reading Introducing… The Souq

Evelyn Naón Ibiza – Scents of the Silk Road

November 12, 2019November 12, 20191 Comment

When you think of the Silk Roads, the ancient trading routes between East and West, what do you picture? For me, it’s a romanticised – and probably slightly orientalist – vision of camel caravans carrying spices and frankincense from exotic corners of Arabia to be traded in the markets of the Mediterranean. It’s the migration … Continue reading Evelyn Naón Ibiza – Scents of the Silk Road

24 hours in Muscat

January 30, 2019January 30, 2019Leave a comment

Oman has become a popular tourist destination and Muscat airport is a frequent layover spot for tourists in transit. Here are out top tips on things to do in Muscat in 24 hours. How to spend a day in Muscat:

13 essential blogs and websites to help you understand the Middle East

November 12, 2018December 12, 20183 Comments

These 13 English-language Middle East blogs and websites are essential reading for anyone interested in Middle East politics and culture.

Middle East Monthly Roundup: October

November 1, 20181 Comment

From now on, we're going to be publishing a monthly summary of the biggest stories in the Middle East, explaining why they matter and what they mean for the region. Here are two important developments that took place during October: Journalist Jamal Khashoggi killed in the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul What happened On October 2nd … Continue reading Middle East Monthly Roundup: October

From rocks to agriculture – the ingenuity of the Omani Aflaj system

July 9, 2018December 6, 20182 Comments

By Tone Delin Indrelid I can’t help but wonder what it must have been like in an inland Omani village, before tourists and resident expats arrived on weekend day trips, before all the comforts and amenities of modern society were available. At a time where some seem to think we can simply take whatever we … Continue reading From rocks to agriculture – the ingenuity of the Omani Aflaj system

Misfat Al Abriyeen: A peaceful oasis in Oman’s Hajar Mountains

June 25, 2018July 2, 20183 Comments

Nestled in the foothills of Oman’s Hajar mountain range overlooking a steep valley is the village of Misfat Al Abriyeen. 1,000 meters above sea level, this tiny, traditional village built into the rocky mountain is an agricultural sweet spot and a lush oasis of calm in a region characterised by hot, dry desert. It’s truly … Continue reading Misfat Al Abriyeen: A peaceful oasis in Oman’s Hajar Mountains

6 photos showcasing the stunning natural beauty of the Middle East & North Africa

June 5, 2018June 4, 20181 Comment

Happy World Environment Day! To celebrate, today we’re sharing these 6 photos that showcase the incredible natural beauty and geographical diversity of the Middle East & North Africa. 1. The Sahara desert, Morocco The Sahara Desert is the largest hot desert in the world with an area of 9.2 million square kilometres - comparable to … Continue reading 6 photos showcasing the stunning natural beauty of the Middle East & North Africa

How to embrace Ramadan as a non-Muslim

May 17, 2018June 5, 2018Leave a comment

By Tone Delin Indrelid Yesterday was the first day of the Holy Month of Ramadan, the ninth month in the lunar calendar, here in Oman. Observing the Holy Month of Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and all mentally and physically fit adult Muslims are required to refrain from food, drink and … Continue reading How to embrace Ramadan as a non-Muslim