Muscat:The Ministry of Information celebrated the winners of the 2026 Media Excellence Competition in a ceremony that highlighted achievements across four main categories Journalism, Radio, Television, and Digital Media. The event was held under the auspices of Dr. Madiha Ahmed Al Shaibani, Minister of Education, and attended by Dr. Abdullah bin Nasser Al Harrasi, Minister of Information.

According to Oman News Agency, the competition encouraged participation from media institutions, individual practitioners, and students specializing in media studies. It aimed to inspire innovation among national media professionals, promote healthy competition, and support the development of digital media and online content. Mohammed bin Said Al Balushi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Information and Chairman of the Main Committee for the competition, emphasized the event's role in enhancing media skills and fostering a culture of excellence since its inception in 2004.

The competition received 432 submissions, with entries spanning print journalism, radio, television, and digital media. The Ministry implemented a digital system for submission evaluation, ensuring objective assessments through clear criteria and an electronic platform. Highlighted entries included a journalistic interview with Iraqi Poet Arif Al Saeedi and a photograph of the traditional art form 'Al-Muzafan,' among others.

The ceremony featured an artistic performance symbolizing the journey towards excellence, and a segment titled 'Omani Media' that showcased the historical contributions of Oman's media sectors. Notable media figures Saleh Zaal and Fakhriya Khamis participated, underscoring the legacy of creative contributions in Oman's media landscape.