On the 53rd National Day of the Sultanate of Oman, the wise leadership of Sultan Haitham bin Tarik is celebrated, acknowledging significant accomplishments across various life domains.
Sheikh Ghuson bin Hilal Al-Alawi, Chairman of the State Audit Institution, extended greetings and gratitude, emphasizing the comprehensive development journey since the blessed renaissance.
Sheikh Ghuson praised the accomplishments that showed the royal will, institutional work, and societal unity. He emphasized that everyone, both in institutions and in society, had a part to play in keeping these achievements safe and guiding them well.
In a humanitarian gesture, Sultan Haitham issued pardons for 175 prisoners, aligning with the National Day celebration. This is consistent with the compassion tradition that many Arab leaders uphold during public holidays.
Citizens celebrated National Day with marches and events, including a military parade in the Dhofar governorate. Various world leaders extended their wishes, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan conveyed congratulations to Oman.
Russia, Romania, Kazakhstan, Turkey, Serbia, Sri Lanka, and other countries also expressed their congratulations.
Oman, characterized as a tribal society, is experiencing a gradual decline in tribal influence. The predominantly Ibāḍī Muslim population follows social customs that, while conservative, are less strict than those in neighboring Saudi Arabia.
Women generally experience more freedom, though gender segregation remains prevalent. Mealtime is a central aspect of social gatherings, featuring a typical Omani meal and the burning of incense, particularly frankincense native to Oman, after meals.
Oman observes standard Islamic and secular holidays, including National Day. In the realm of arts, Omani artisans are renowned and supported by the Ministry of National Heritage and Culture.
Oman’s architectural richness includes forts and castles, contributing to its cultural heritage. Cultural institutions, such as the Oman Museum and the Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra, showcase the country’s history and artistic talents.
Oman’s strategic location in the Middle East has made it pivotal for maintaining the security of traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. The country has engaged in diplomatic efforts, serving as a mediator in regional disputes and participating in global initiatives.
In recent history, Sultan Qaboos bin Said’s 50-year rule, which was characterized by modernization and economic diversification, came to an end in 2020.
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Sultan Haitham bin Tariq succeeded him, facing challenges such as the global COVID-19 pandemic and the oil price slump. He responded with economic reforms and diversification efforts, pledging continuity in foreign policy while introducing domestic changes.
Since the 18th century, tribal dynamics, the Ib imamate, and a maritime tradition have shaped Oman’s history. Key historical periods include Persian colonization, Portuguese invasions, the Ibāḍī imamate, and the rise of the Āl Bū Saʿīd dynasty.
The 20th century witnessed the Dhofar rebellion, Sultan Qaboos’s modernization efforts, and Oman’s active role in regional and global affairs.
