“The least we hope for is to follow in his [late HM Sultan Qaboos’] footsteps and remain guided by his wisdom into the future, and preserve the achievements he made.”

Happy birthday, Your Majesty!

His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik is celebrating his 67th birthday on October 11, 2022.

His Majesty’s assumption of power, in January 2020, came at a critical moment in the sultanate’s history. He took over the reins when large parts of the world, including the Arab region, faced challenges on multiple fronts: political, economic, social and health.

His Majesty the Sultan has navigated Oman through unprecedented times. Through it all, he’s become known as someone who leads with kindness, compassion and strength, while keeping the wellbeing of both Omanis and residents at the heart of his approach. 

His Majesty opted for a path of modernization and change without delay, introducing reforms to fulfil the hopes and aspirations of the Omani people while taking measures to preserve the stability and security of the country. His Majesty’s leadership throughout Oman’s COVID-19 response has been globally recognized. The tough calls she made to protect the nation’s health saw Oman avoid the devastation seen overseas, and set up our economy to recover faster than almost any other country in the world.

Early this month, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) praised Oman’s efforts in dealing with the COVID-19 crisis and reviving the economy after the pandemic. IMF now projects Oman’s economic growth at 4.3 percent for 2022, supported by increased hydrocarbon production and continued recovery of non-oil economic activity. “High oil prices, continued fiscal consolidation under the authorities’ Medium-Term Fiscal Plan, and determined implementation of structural reforms under Oman Vision 2040 are expected to generate fiscal and external surpluses and support higher growth over the medium term,” said Daniel Kanda, who led the IMF mission to Oman. 

I said this before and I continue to believe that the extraordinary leadership that His Majesty has provided not just to Oman, but to the world, has helped to navigate many concerns. Listening attentively to his people and then acting on that advice quickly and with commitment are the signs of a great leader. “We need to listen to everyone’s opinions and suggestions,” His Majesty said during his meeting with sheikhs from the governorates of North Al Batinah, Al Dhahirah and Al Buraimi in Sohar this year. At the local level, His Majesty has been closely following the issues of people on a day-to-day basis. 

The world needs leaders like His Majesty who cares about his people. His constant engagement with the world, thoughtfulness, and willingness to hear the perspective of others, in my mind, is a reflection of a true leader. As the Late Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the former Emir of Kuwait famously said: “Oman is safe in the hands of His Majesty Sultan Haitham.”Yes indeed, we are blessed to have His Majesty Sultan Haitham as our leader.

The Arabian Stories team wishes His Majesty Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik, a happy birthday.