Tourism & Hospitality | Monday 10 October, 2016 6:08 am |

Saraya Bandar Jissah, Muscat’s newest integrated tourism complex, continued to contribute towards the local community by hosting international football player Ali Al-Habsi at Qantab Village yesterday on Saturday the 8th of October. An initiative organised by Saraya Bandar Jissah in partnership with Al Habsi Football School, the event aimed to promote environmental awareness as well as the importance of a healthy and community oriented lifestyle. 

 

The event took place from 8am to 11am with a turnout of 110 children from Qantab Village and Al Habsi Football School. First on the agenda, the children joined Ali Al-Habsi for a clean up of Qantab beach to help raise awareness of protecting the local environment and preserving the surroundings for future generations.

 

Then, Ali Al-Habsi conducted a training session with the children, fueling their passion for the game and teaching them the values associated with team sport. The event came to a close in the Majlis where refreshments were served.

 

The event was part of Saraya Bandar Jissah’s focus on developing strong and enduring links with the local neighbourhood. The project is committed to forming close ties with nearby residents with activities including the completion of a one-of-a-kind football pitch last year. The 60m by 90m football field has been constructed to International FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) standards and serves as a place for youngsters to come together and pursue their passion for the sport. Additionally, Saraya Bandar Jissah has built a new community Majlis for the residents of Qantab village, providing them with a central community venue for events and gatherings.

 

Ali Al-Habsi believes that this is a great initiative for both the community and the environment. “I’m happy to have participated in such an event as I feel that it was beneficial for everyone involved. The children and I were able to help do something that was positive for the environment while also growing and discussing our passion for football,” says Al-Habsi.

 

Saleh AlSharji, CSR Supervisor says; “We are very proud to host world-renowned football player Ali Al-Habsi and introduce him to local young football enthusiasts as well as form a long-lasting partnership. As a project in the midst of a longstanding Omani neighbourhood, our company culture and values are deeply connected to the community, and we strive to make a positive difference through our CSR activities. We have already launched a number of social and environmental initiatives and intend on continuing these efforts as the project progresses.”