‘Empty Quarter’ crossing documentary premiered in Oman

A film documenting the ‘Empty Quarter’ crossing of two Omanis and a Briton was premiered at VOX cinemas last night.

The hour long documentary titled ‘A Journey of the Empty Quarter’ shows the journey, findings, experiences and hardships endured by the three travelers on their 49 day crossing of the Empty Quarter, an effort of retracing the 1930 expedition by Omani traveler Sheikh Salih bin Kalut and British explorer Bertram Thomas. 

The three travelers – Mark Evans, Mohammed Al Zadjali and Amour Al Wahabi who covered the 1,300 kilometre journey on foot and Camel back, by the end of 2015 and start of 2016, from Salalah through Saudi Arabia up to Doha in Qatar, were also present at the screening.

They expressed a sense of delight on the release and appreciation for the congratulatory messages pouring in.

“I think it gave me a great feeling of pride and most importantly it put the spotlight on Mohammed and Amour, and their achievements.

“What they have achieved is quite fantastic and they are wonderful role models for young Omanis to aspire to because they are the living evidence of hard work and tenacity overcoming problems and challenges,” said Mark Evans, general manager at Outward Bound Oman.

The documentary was inaugurated by His Highness Sayyid Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, Minister of Heritage and Culture and saw the presence of His Excellency Yusuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah, Minister Responsible for Foreign Affairs and Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, Secretary general at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

This is the first time in 85 years that the historically significant journey is recreated in its entirety, and was an affirmation of the strong ties between the GCC countries, and also aims to inspire the youth to take interest in their rich heritage and culture.

The film is due for public release on May 18 at VOX Cinemas in Oman.

Source: Timesofoman