Digitally Reviving History: A Journey to Oman Across Ages Museum

Written by Dr. Heba Hassan Amer, Curator and Head of the Education Department, Alexandria National Museum (Egypt, ITP 2024)

My visit to the Oman Across Ages Museum was not just a museum visit – it was a transformative experience that reshaped how I view museums as spaces. I first learned about the international conference Museums and Their Role in Tourism Development through the ITP in 2024 and decided to participate with a research paper titled Digitally Reviving History in collaboration with engineer Ahmed Emara. The conference’s scientific committee selected my research to be presented as a workshop for the museum’s specialists. Our workshop brought historical figures like Ramses II to life through interactive digital avatars that engaged with the audience – it was a magical moment to witness.

From the very first step inside, I was captivated by the museum’s modern architecture and its seamless integration of Omani heritage. The use of interactive technologies and sophisticated storytelling truly stood out. Compared to major institutions, this museum excels at making visitors part of the story, not just observers.

Our workshop merged technology with museum education through practical, hands-on interaction, and the participants’ warm and enthusiastic feedback was deeply rewarding. The conference itself was an extraordinary opportunity to connect with brilliant minds. I was honored to meet Mohamed Ahmed Abdelsalam (ITP 2013) and Mouza bint Salman (ITP 2013), along with the talented scholars Dr. Marwa Abdel Razek and Dr. Nevine Nizar (ITP 2012), whose presentations were truly inspiring.

Marwa chaired my session and gave me immense moral support. She also joined me on a delightful excursion to Nizwa Fort and Bayt al-Ridaydah, where our colleague Nesma (from the Museum of Oman Across Ages team) brought us traditional Omani abayas to wear—an unforgettable gesture that deepened our connection to the place.

At Muttrah Souq, specifically in Ali Baba City Bazaar, I encountered an Omani man who has preserved his family’s heritage for over 2,500 years – meteorites, rare jewels, and more. No glass cases. No locks. Just honesty and trust. As a generous keepsake, he gifted us an authentic Omani pearl, a token of the warmth and generosity of this beautiful land.

I went back to Alexandria full of ideas, inspired by the spirit of Oman and renewed in my belief that museums can be dynamic centers for learning, imagination, and the revival of history.

And this is only the beginning of a new story… the next chapter will be written from the heart of Alexandria.