Oman Air’s Muscat-based catering unit is playing an important role in supporting the Omani government’s promotion of authentic Omani cuisine to discerning international audiences.

Oman Air’s Catering Business Unit, under the leadership of general manager — Oman Air Catering Jassim Al-Balushi, recently hosted a high-profile event at which three of Oman’s leading chefs presented a range of delicious new dishes.

Each dish combined traditional Omani cooking with the latest global culinary trends, and was created with the expert support of Oman Air’s in-house chefs.

The chefs created a range of soups, salads, appetizers, main courses and desserts which were not just pleasing to the palate but also had an overwhelming visual appeal.

The guest of honor at this special event was Mohsin Khamis Al-Balushi, adviser to Ministry of Commerce abd Industry board member of Oman Air.

He was joined by senior managers from Oman Air and officials from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, which is overseeing Oman’s presence at the forthcoming Expo Milano 2015.

Expo Milano 2015 will provide a global platform for increasing awareness of Omani culture and heritage, including its distinctive cuisine.

Mohsin Khamis Al-Balushi commented:

“Authentic Omani cuisine deserves global recognition and this event has been an important step toward achieving that goal.”

He said: “I have been amazed by the outstanding skill and creativity shown by each of the guest chefs, as well as the expertise of Oman Air’s own catering specialists. My thanks go to all who took part and whose hard work made this event such a success. The efforts of Jassim Al Balushi and his team in unconditionally supporting the global promotion of Omani cuisine are particularly appreciated.”

In turn, the chefs thanked Mohsin Khamis Al-Balushi and Oman Air for giving them the opportunity to showcase their talents globally.

They also thanked the catering team for giving them the opportunity to enhance their pre-plating, presentation and serving experience.

Andrew Walsh, chief officer service delivery, added:

“Oman Air has, for many years now, both inflight and within our airport lounges, been proud to showcase Omani cuisine to millions of air travelers from around the world. We are therefore delighted to have played a further part in raising the global profile of Omani culinary achievement and it has been a pleasure to offer the support of Oman Air Catering to these most enterprising of Omani chefs.”

Jassim Al-Balushi, general manager — Oman Air Catering, said: “We look forward to seeing Omani food gain even greater recognition at Expo Milano 2015, and to taking Omani cuisine to many more destinations as Oman Air’s network continues to grow.”

He said: “In the meantime, I would like to thank our guests from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, our superb guest chefs and the Oman Air Catering Unit for making this event such a great success.”