A Jewel of the Arabia (Sultanate of Oman)
By/Zahid Shakoor Ch
Published by: Shaandar Bukhari
Date: 19/11/2024
As the Sultanate of Oman prepares to celebrate its 53rd National Day on November 18th, it is a time to reflect on the remarkable journey this small, yet influential nation has embarked upon over the past decades. Oman’s story is one of resilience, visionary leadership, and a steadfast commitment to progress that has transformed it into a beacon of stability and prosperity in the region.
The late Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said, who ruled Oman for nearly 50 years until his passing in 2020, left an indelible mark on the country. Under his guidance, Oman emerged from relative obscurity to become a respected player on the global stage. Sultan Qaboos was instrumental in positioning Oman as a neutral mediator, fostering diplomatic ties with countries across the world. He oversaw the modernization of Oman’s infrastructure, diversification of its economy, and the expansion of its international influence. Through his visionary leadership, Oman gained a reputation as a haven of stability and religious tolerance in a tumultuous region.
The Ascension of Sultan Haitham bin Tariq
The mantle of leadership has now been passed to Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, who has continued to build upon the foundation laid by his predecessor. Since ascending to the throne in 2020, Sultan Haitham has charted a course for Oman’s future, centered around his “Oman Vision 2040” plan. This ambitious blueprint aims to transform Oman into a knowledge-based, diversified economy, reducing its reliance on oil and gas exports.
Under Sultan Haitham’s guidance, Oman has taken significant strides in creating an environment that is welcoming to foreign investors and expatriate workers. The country’s business-friendly policies, streamlined bureaucracy, and low tax rates have made it an increasingly attractive destination for global talent and enterprises. The Sultan’s emphasis on ease of living and personal safety has also resonated with both Omani citizens and expatriates alike.
A Personal Testimony, As an expatriate who first arrived in Oman in 2009, I can attest to the country’s unwavering commitment to fostering a harmonious, multicultural society. From the moment I set foot in this vibrant nation, I was struck by the warmth and hospitality of the Omani people. Despite my humble beginnings, I was able to establish a thriving business over the past 16 years, thanks to the country’s robust legal framework and supportive environment for entrepreneurship.
Oman’s diverse populace, which includes a rich tapestry of nationalities, faiths, and cultural backgrounds, coexists in a climate of mutual respect and understanding. The country’s steadfast adherence to the rule of law, coupled with its low tax rates, has enabled me to grow my enterprise and achieve remarkable success. Today, I can confidently say that Oman has become my second home – a place where I feel safe, respected, and empowered to pursue my aspirations.
A Bright Future Ahead InshaAllah!
As Oman celebrates its National Day, it is a testament to the visionary leadership of its past and present rulers, as well as the resilience and adaptability of its people. Under the guidance of Sultan Haitham, the country is poised to embark on a new era of growth and prosperity, firmly positioning itself as a hub of innovation, economic diversification, and cross-cultural exchange.
On this auspicious occasion, I offer my heartfelt wishes to the Sultanate of Oman and its people. May the nation continue to flourish and may its unwavering commitment to progress and harmony serve as an inspiration to the world.
Title Image by Rettenberg from Pixabay
