The SALAM Scholarship Program

A Distinguished and Prestigious Initiative of the Sultan Qaboos Cultural Center

The Sultan Qaboos Cultural Center (SQCC) proudly presents the Summer Arabic Language and Media (SALAM) Scholarship Program—an elite, fully-funded opportunity for American undergraduate and graduate students to engage in intensive Arabic language study and cultural immersion in the Sultanate of Oman.

The name SALAM—derived from the Arabic word for “peace”—embodies the program’s core mission: to build bridges of mutual respect, dialogue, and cultural appreciation between the United States and the Sultanate of Oman.

Hosted at the esteemed Sultan Qaboos Institute for Teaching Arabic Language to Non-native Speakers in Manah, Oman, the SALAM Program offers far more than classroom instruction. Participants live the language, gaining firsthand insight into Omani society, history, and traditions through daily interaction, guided excursions, and cultural engagement.

As part of this transformative experience, alumni are awarded the SQCC Cultural Ambassador Certificate, officially recognizing them as lifelong cultural ambassadors of SQCC. This honor reflects their role in promoting cross-cultural understanding and representing the values of the Center long after the program concludes.

Program Description

This distinguished and prestigious program is designed to cultivate the next generation of culturally fluent scholars, diplomats, and global professionals. SALAM scholars move beyond textbook learning to develop a nuanced, personal appreciation of Arabic language and Omani culture—skills essential for meaningful cross-cultural dialogue and leadership.

Program Dates

TBD

Class Schedule

SUNDAY - THURSDAY 8:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. (Friday and Saturday are the weekend in Oman)

Program Cost

SQCC will cover international travel to and from Washington, D.C. and Muscat, Oman, program language classes, room, board, SALAM-sponsored travel for weekend excursions, and all entrance fees for program activities. Students will be required to purchase travel insurance, and international health and medical evacuation insurance.

Deadline for Submission

MIDNIGHT 31 December 2025

SALAM Participants Testimonials

"The SALAM program was a life-changing experience for me. The opportunity to study abroad in Oman on a fully-funded scholarship was the spark I needed to invest further in my Arabic language studies. This experience helped me receive admission into graduate school and build a career with the federal government. Because of SALAM, the Arabic language continues to play a meaningful role in my life."

- SAAJID HASAN

Application Form