Aalam - Youth Center Opening Ceremony

Project Background

"Alam" was not just an event, but an immersive experience created to place Omani youth at the heart of the moment. It was a sensory and visual journey built on the principle that every individual is a universe unto themselves, carrying within them light, ambition, and potential capable of inspiring those around them.
The idea stemmed from a deep belief that Omani youth are not mere spectators on the sidelines of the story—they are its heroes.

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Stage One: Research and Understanding

Before starting the design, we conducted in-depth research to understand:

• The cultural environment of Omani youth
• Visual symbols associated with modern Omani identity
• Global trends in designing immersive experiences
• Previous local and international experiences engaging youth audiences

We conducted brief interviews with several young people and analyzed their visual tendencies on social platforms. We also studied colors, language, and symbols related to empowerment, discovery, and identity.

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Stage Two: Identity Concept Development

The visual identity was based on a simple yet profound idea:
“A person is a microcosm of the universe, and once they believe in themselves, they become a universe in their own right.”

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From this, we began shaping a visual concept centered around:

• Reflections (the self as a mirror of the world and the world as a mirror of the self)
• Light (representing inspiration and discovery)
• Movement (symbolizing change and internal growth)
• Cosmic elements (circles, stars, points of intersection)

Stage Three: Design
Visual Elements:

• Logo: Designed to reflect the connection between self and universe, using continuous circular lines symbolizing continuity and depth.
• Colors: A palette inspired by Omani nature (sand, sky, sea, sunrise) with luminous accents representing youthful energy.
• Fonts: A modern Arabic typeface balanced between tradition and modernity, alongside a simple English font to enhance clarity of identity.
• Graphic Patterns: Inspired by astronomy and mind maps, expressing inner navigation and discovery.
• Visual Language: A blend of mystery and simplicity, with expansive white spaces inviting contemplation.

Stage Four: Spatial Design
The visual identity was transformed into a sensory spatial experience where every participant’s step held meaning and every corner revealed a message.

• Lighting design simulated the journey of discovery from inside out.
• Interactive walls artistically reflected youth perceptions of themselves.
• Photo opportunity spots were designed as visual extensions of the identity.
• The interactive map inside the experience was shaped like a "universe," with each station representing a galaxy within this "Alam."

Stage Five: Implementation
The project was executed in phases, collaborating with specialized teams in:

• Exhibition and visual experience production
• Printing on diverse materials
• Augmented reality (AR) technologies for elements inside the experience
• Producing promotional and documentary videos for the event

The visual identity was consistently applied across all details: invitations, souvenirs, and even team uniforms.

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Results

• Widespread youth attendance and high interaction on social platforms.
• Praise from attendees for the concept of “Being Yourself is the Universe.”
• The visual identity later used in empowerment campaigns targeting Omani youth.