MUSCAT – Oman is mourning the passing of Sheikh Salim Saeed Hamed Al Fannah Al Araimi, a pioneering businessman, philanthropist, and education advocate who played a defining role in shaping the country’s modern private sector.

Sheikh Salim was the Chairman of Galfar Engineering and Contracting, Oman’s largest construction and engineering company, which has been instrumental in delivering many of the nation’s landmark infrastructure projects. Under his stewardship, Galfar grew into a regional giant and became synonymous with the Sultanate’s modernisation drive.

In addition to his corporate achievements, Sheikh Salim held senior leadership positions across a number of major firms, including National Drilling & Services LLC, Salim International Investment Holding, and Oman Medical College. He also served as Chancellor of the National University of Science & Technology (NU), where he championed the advancement of higher education and research in the Sultanate.

Renowned for his philanthropy, Sheikh Salim supported numerous charitable causes and educational initiatives, leaving behind a legacy of social responsibility alongside his business successes.

His passing marks the end of an era for Oman’s business community. Tributes are expected to pour in from across the country, with leading institutions and officials set to issue statements of condolence.