Sultan Haitham bin Tarik al Said

Sultan Haitham bin Tarik al Said

Das Gesicht des modernen Oman

Das Gesicht des modernen Oman

Wenn Sie eine Reise in den Oman planen, ist es wichtig, etwas über die Führungspersönlichkeit des Landes zu wissen. Sultan Haitham bin Tarik al Said ist der aktuelle Herrscher des Oman und spielt eine entscheidende Rolle in der Gestaltung des modernen Oman.

Written by: Michaela Eckmüller Last updated at: June 26, 2024
Table of contents
    Al Alam Palace in MaskatAl Salam Palace in Maskat von außen

    Sultan Qaboos ibn Said al Said, who was very popular in Oman, ruled for almost fifty years. After his death on 10 January 2020, his cousin Haitham bin Tarik al Said succeeded him, as Qaboos had wished in his will. Haitham, most recently the country's Minister of Culture, was considered the favourite to succeed the childless Sultan. The continued existence of the ruling family Al Said is preserved – as is the country's role as mediator, which Haitham is just as concerned about as his predecessor.

    Before taking office

    During his studies in England, but mostly as a direct participant, Haitham, who was born in 1954, was able to follow the so-called rebirth of Oman and the country's path into modernity that his predecessor Qaboos inspired. Haitham spent almost twenty years as Under-Secretary of State and Secretary General, one of the senior officials in the Foreign Office in Muscat. In this capacity, European diplomats have seen him as level-headed, wise and somewhat reserved. Since 2002, he has been Minister for Oman's cultural heritage, an office that has been a high priority for Qaboos. Just like for his successor, the reconciliation of tradition and modern life played a special role for him.

    The role of the Sultan

    As a traditional Islamic head of state, both the executive, judicial and legislative branches are under the command of the Sultan. He is supported by a cabinet of ministers, secretaries of state and special advisory councils appointed by him. The office of Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, Minister of Defence and Finance is held by the Sultan himself. Under Qaboos, despite the absolutist state apparatus, a number of advisory bodies of people's representatives had been set up to examine the ministries and draft laws. Voices were raised that Oman was well on the way to becoming an Islamic democracy. Haitham will continue to follow this path, as the new Sultan also combines traditional Islamic rule with modern views.

    A man of balance

    Haitham is a man of balance. Like in almost all oil states in the Gulf region, the construction industry is booming in Oman. In talks, the Sultan repeatedly stressed that the country should be open to tourism. However, while growth in the neighbouring countries is unstoppable and is almost becoming gigantic, Haitham in Oman does not want to overdo it. But the new Sultan is also facing challenges. Qaboos has led Oman out of abject poverty and into the modern age, and has been revered by the people. This is not an easy legacy for Haitham, which is expected to make improvements, especially in the areas of education and training, in order to counteract the high youth unemployment.

    Discover Oman with experts who have called it their home

    Your dream holiday, tailor-made by experts.

    We don't just know Oman from books, we visit the country several times a year to experience the culture, landscape and people first-hand.

    From your first enquiry to your return home, we are there for you personally - by phone, email or WhatsApp, whenever you need us. Our trips are as unique as you are: individually planned and provided with exclusive privileges and high-quality arrangements that will make your trip unforgettable.

    Why book with the Oman specialist

    On site

    Own Canvas Club team with office in Muscat and Salalah. We know all tour guides for many years, all services on site come from us - from one source!

    Expertise

    Every travel consultant has already lived in Oman for several years. We know all the hotels and highlights of the country personally! And are several times a year on the spot.

    Hotel product

    Own luxury desert camp 'Canvas Club' in the Wahiba Sands desert with exclusive benefits for our clients

    Network

    Attractive prices and exclusive benefits through long-standing, trusting partnerships with local hoteliers and service providers.

    Accessibility

    Contactable 7 days a week via all common communication channels - 24h emergency number on site.

    Personal

    Each trip is individually worked out and 100% tailored to your needs!