Oman Memory and its Role in Preserving and Providing Access to Digital Heritage: The Current State and Future Prospects

Elsayed  Elsawy; Ahmed  Shehata; Abderrazak  Mkadmi; Sarah  Attia

doi:10.48161/qaj.v5n4a2134

Authors

Elsayed Elsawy Department of Information Studies, College of Arts and Social Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat 123, Oman;
Ahmed Shehata Department of Information Studies, College of Arts and Social Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat 123, Oman;
Abderrazak Mkadmi Department of Information Studies, College of Arts and Social Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat 123, Oman;
Sarah Attia General Foundation Programme, Muscat University, Muscat 130, Oman.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.48161/qaj.v5n4a2134

Keywords:

digital repositories, documentary heritage, documentation centers, oman memory, manuscripts.

Abstract

This study examines the objectives and scope of the Oman Memory digital initiative, focusing on the resources it preserves, its achievements, challenges, and future prospects. The Oman Digital Memory provides access to a unique collection of rare Omani manuscripts, documents, books, theses and photographs. More than 100,000 items have been digitized, with 40,000 additional copies added annually, reflecting the steady expansion of digital resources. The study offers empirical evidence of national heritage preservation and highlights trends that can inform policy and academic research. A qualitative methodology was employed, combining semi-structured interviews with officials and content analysis of publications, platforms, and documentation initiatives to identify strategic directions for preserving and making Omani heritage accessible to present and future generations. The study relied on a purposive sample of officials from the main units of the Oman Memory Center, ensuring representation of both strategic and operational perspectives at the departmental level. Data were collected through in-depth and semi-structured interviews and complemented by a review of official documents and internal records to enhance credibility. Thematic analysis of interview data revealed key themes and recurring patterns that complemented the content analysis. The study results showed that the Oman Memory Center provides essential activities and services to promote cultural identity by collecting, classifying, and making available documentary and intellectual production that reflects Oman's history and diversity. However, the Center faces challenges, including a lack of specialized personnel and the need to develop its digital infrastructure. To enhance the cultural and scientific role of the Oman Memory Center, the study recommends developing a national strategy for institutions concerned with promoting documentary and intellectual heritage, leveraging the contributions of each archive, library, and research center. It also recommends continuously engaging users to evaluate the effectiveness and impact of projects aimed at documenting, preserving, and making cultural heritage available. This study forms part of recent studies on digital heritage preservation in the Arab region.

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