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12.
February
2018.
UK ambassador marvels at Oman's stunning British-designed sculpture
 UK ambassador marvels at Oman's stunning British-designed sculpture

Her Majesty’s Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman, Hamish Cowell is amazed by stunning British sculpture, The Arches of Oman.

The Arches of Oman is a towering, sweeping water sculpture in shining steel that stands at 12m in height and 25m in width. It’s formed by two curling tusks that weave and flow together while a high-pressure fountain jet dance between them. 

“The Arches of Oman is a stunning new landmark in the centre of Muscat. I was delighted to have this opportunity to visit a fantastic example of iconic UK project design, management and engineering in Oman, with 12 British companies involved in the project – from the supply of steel fabrication, water systems and computer systems, to the provision of project management oversight,” Mr Cowell explained.

The sculpture, developed by inspirational artist, Giles Rayner, can be seen by each of the 12 million passengers that pass through Muscat International Airport (MCT) and on to explore the city. The sculpture is a clear sign of the growth and development present in Oman. As a nation grows, so does its architecture. With the arrival of The Arches of Oman, the city abounds with this creative energy. 

Mr Cowell went on to say “The sculpture is also a great example of the strong relationship, historic and modern, between the UK and Oman, and I am pleased that it has received such positive reviews from the general public. The UK is the largest foreign investor in to Oman and the British Embassy in Muscat is proud to support the UK-Oman trade and investment relationship, including through flagship projects such as this one”.

Giles added, “We’re very proud that The Arches of Oman delighted Her Majesty’s Ambassador. The sculpture reflects the aesthetic lines of Oman’s culture and, in its position by the Royal Opera House, welcomes crowds of visitors each day.”

Oman's tourism revenues have been steadily growing, reaching $3.1 billion in 2017 with arrival figures increasing year on year from 1.1 million in 2005 to 3.2 million in 2016.

British citizens were the third-largest tourist group to Oman in recent years. Visitors from Gulf Cooperation Council countries (over a million) and India (a quarter of a million) make up the rest of the top three. Flights to Muscat International Airport (MCT) depart daily from London and the two countries are building up a record of technical and engineering cooperation.

Giles Rayner, the sculpture's creator, is an established figure in the world of steel and water sculpture. His work can be found in locations in North America and Europe in his imaginative and highly original style. 

The UK is the largest foreign investor into Oman and the British Embassy in Muscat is proud to support the UK-Oman trade and investment relationship, including through flagship projects such as this one.

For further information contact Julian Glyn-Owen, Commission Director, GR Sculpture Ltd +44 7868643424

pd@grsculpture.com                                                                                            www.archesoman.com
 

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