The Majestic 2010

CREDITS Chairman Hatim al Taie

General Manager Rathish Ramachandran

Editor-in-Chief Abdullah al Taie

Asst. General Manager Terry Mathukutty

Published by Deenar Press & Publishing LLC PO Box 139, PC 102, Al Qurm Sultanate of Oman Tel: +968 24696868 Fax: +968 24693569 Email: info@deenarmedia.com

Editor Sujata Sengupta Editorial Poornima Ramani Hyesha Barrett Malcolm X Crasta Senior Designer Shyniben Koyakkil

Printed at Oman Printers and Stationers Sultanate of Oman

Designers Muneeb Khan Azza Hilal al Rashdi

Copyright Š 2010 Deenar Press & Publishing LLC

Photographer Shakeel al Balushi Sales Mehri Vatanparast Emily Matthews Sami Dalwai Acknowledgements Ministry of Information Speeches of His Majesty Interview of His Majesty, 1971, Nasr bin Mohammed al Taie Figaro Magazine, April 1994 The Middle East, November 1995 A Reformer on the Throne, Sergey Plekhanov, April 2004 Photographs of His Majesty, Mohammed Mustafa

Disclaimer 2010 Š All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in whole or in part without the written permission of the publishers. While every care has been taken in the preparation of this book, Deenar Press and Publishing cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of the information herein, or any consequences arising from it.

F O R E W O R D

A life dedicated to nation building In the name of God, the compassionate and the merciful.

It was a mild and pleasant winter day in 1940 when His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said was born in Salalah, Oman. Today as the nation gathers to celebrate forty years of His Majesty’s impressive reign, we pay homage to the astute leader by bringing to the forefront the life of this legendary statesman.

His Majesty’s life and work is etched in the hearts of every Omani. Our objective in assimilating this story is to familiarise the expatriate community in Oman with the life of a true statesman.

The book is divided into different parts and each focuses on a different phase of His Majesty’s life. Starting with his birth, it sails through his education, accession to the throne, his policies, Oman’s ties with foreign countries and His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said’s contribution to various sectors of the society. We have focused on his Royal decrees and grants that were fundamental in transforming his vision into the reality we see today. This book also highlights the involvement of His Majesty in the fields of sports and culture. His deep bonding and direct involvement with the people of his homeland comes out clearly in the royal tours that have been an integral part of his reign.

The royal speeches have been a source of inspiration to many. This book has gleaned through his encouraging repertoire and enlivened each decade with His Majesty’s quotes. The elegant symbol of Oman, the khanjar, paves the way to the highlights of each decade.

In the process of compiling this book we received help from many quarters in terms of rare photographs and ideas. It has been a great experience putting together The Majestic 2010 and we hope you will enjoy every page of it.

Congratulations to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said & the People of Oman on the auspicious occasion of the 40th National Day!

www.muscatpharmacy.net

C O N T E N T S

BORN TO RULE

26

C O N T E N T S

Birth of the omani rial

62

chamber for progress

66

countless goals

70

connecting oman

74

the press connection

94

the emerging workforce

98

C O N T E N T S

a unique democracy

102

regional unity

106

A clear vision

118

charity begins at home

122

flying high

132

full steam ahead

134

C O N T E N T S

homes for all

140

reduce, reuse, recycle

144

CAUTIOUS OPTIMISM

148

the jewel sails

152

a peaceful stop

156

rare moments ...................................... 47 Implementing a vision ....................... 78 homecoming .......................................... 90 bound by law ........................................ 112 promising future ............................... 126 celebrating peace ............................... 130 index ....................................................... 158

preface This section of the book recounts the in-depth story of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said.

We trace the background of his family’s history alongside his formative years in Salalah. It also includes his years in England at Sandhurst and life with the famous Scottish regiment, the Cameronians. These were impressionable times for a monarch in the making, which bolstered the inspiration and determination within him to lead his country into a new era. We salute his vision displayed in inviting those who had left Oman to return to their homeland, calling on them to join him in working together to improve the country. Among many other policies we pay homage to his firm belief in himself and his country, his irrefutable bond to the people of Oman and his concern for every individual. The highlight of the story is the rare moments of His Majesty’s life pictorially captured by Mohammed Mustafa, his personal photographer of many years.

F

Chapter 1 THE HEIR APPARENT gently down to the ocean; and the ocean itself – a vast, glittering expanse merging imperceptibly with the distant sky.

or centuries, the city of Ubar was the object of legend, quests and uncertainty. It was also the land of the iconic Queen Sheba and the exotic frankincense trail. It was in this land of legends and mythical folklore that a son was born to Sultan Said bin Taimur and his beloved wife Miyzun bint Ahmed Alma’ashani on 18 November 1940. The newborn was named Qaboos after the valiant warrior prince of the legendary Lakhmids. The title of Sayyid (His Highness) indicated his unique destiny as a future ruler of his people. The birth took place in Salalah while Said bin Taimur was in Muscat. It was a full year before the father saw his son for the first time.

Long before formal education began, the Sayyid started exploring his immediate surroundings. As soon as he could walk he began to make his first discoveries in the rooms of the ancient palace: rooms filled with intriguing objects – ancient chests and decorated guns; long, gently-curved swords and small leather shields; Persian rugs; mirrors with gold-plated frames and carved bookshelves filled with fine books. With his first steps outside the palace came new

30

When the young prince was three years old, a British staging post was established not far from Salalah. This became one of the strategic points along the air routes from Europe to the Middle East and India.

Heavy American aircraft transporting ammunition through Iran to the Far East and Russia started to land regularly in Salalah. The young Sayyid enjoyed watching from his window the dark grey freighters, ominous against the sunlight, landing and taking off with surprising precision, and the fighter planes, swift and accurate as falcons, f lashing above the wicker roofs of peasant huts.

The young Sayyid Qaboos bin Said

discoveries – huge palm trunks reaching up to the sky; strip of palms beyond the palace walls, separating the palace from the town; the smooth sandy seashore sloping

One of the first questions to arouse the curiosity of the young Sayyid was why his country was named Oman. Unlike other children of his age, for the heir the name of his country can never be an abstract idea.

In due course he would have to bear a title that would become an integral part of his own name – Qaboos bin Said, the Sultan of Oman.

He was told that Arab writers at the beginning of the Islamic era tried to explain it in different ways: some maintained it was the name of a tribe, others believed that it was the name of a valley in Yemen, once inhabited by the powerful Azd who at the time occupied the southwest of Arabia. This latter explanation was the most attractive to the prince.

The absorbing mind of the child listened to the stories of the adults around him, and tried to imagine the country beyond his palace walls. He asked endless questions about the life of the people in different parts of Oman so that he could picture himself in these places, among tribes unknown to him. One of his favourite leisure activity as a child was to study books and maps of Oman, travelling in his imagination from town to town. The lines describing his legendary namesake never far from his mind.

He throws himself fiercely into battle, His hauberk is strong, it is iron, resilient, His sharpest white sword strikes ruthlessly The young Sayyid was naturally drawn to the ordinary people. His regular encounters with the courtiers and the staff of the palace were predictable and therefore unable to

Said bin Taimur, the Sultan at that time, was a striking figure, impeccably dressed and courteous. He possessed a sternness and strength that belied his appearance. A great shot, he often practised his aim by targeting lines of bottles arranged along the palace wall. He was a believer in education, having attended an English college in India – Mayo College, Ajmer – followed by a period at a similar college in Baghdad.

quench his curiosity. His encounters with desert dwellers, fishermen and merchants were far more rewarding. He was keen to learn about his people and the country and quickly realised that these were the best teachers. His peers often commented on the close attention the young Qaboos paid even at chance meetings with countrymen during his all too infrequent trips outside the Al Husn palace.

Early education of the young prince took place within the Al Husn palace under the tutelage of local teachers from the Madrasa a’ Sayyidia School, Salalah’s only educational establishment. The early years in the palace were the most carefree for the young Sultan. However, this invigorating period ended sooner for him than for others of his age. Royal children generally have a shorter childhood, unavoidably aware from an early age of their own significance and schooled from birth to succeed to power. If history is just a story to ordinary boys, to a future ruler the study of history is an essential introduction to his own future role as leader.

For the Sayyid, as for any Arab, his first notions of writing were connected with the history of Islam. The letters traced by the schoolboy’s tentative hand had once

31

understanding developed, the very first lines of each sura captured his attention with their concepts of singular wisdom. His desire to know more urged him forward. The young Sayyid’s first teacher of calligraphy promised him that he would one day be able to read all the books in the palace library.

Among the many books he read, a collection of Shakespeare’s tragedies compiled by a

famous Arab writer, Kamal Kalani, impressed him most. Having learnt to read at the age of five, the future Sultan enjoyed immersing himself in a complex world of human passions.

Said bin Taimur himself liked to season his conversation when appropriate with a quotation from Shakespeare. But the most important book that the heir to the throne discovered for himself, as soon as he learnt the art of reading, was the Holy Qur’an.

CHAPTER 2 THE DYNASTY

Sultan Said bin Taimur with Sayyid Qaboos bin Said

been chosen to inscribe the spiritual code of Islam. A line of calligraphy can look like an agitated ocean surface or like the contours of sand dunes. Single letters can be recognised in an isolated cloud or on a crescent moon above the horizon.

The library at the palace in Salalah holds a large collection of books, some of great antiquity. The beauty of the calligraphy in those ancient, leather-bound books is in itself an aid to contemplation. As his

32

A

s he explored the characters and policies of all his predecessors, Qaboos came to understand that the truly outstanding men of the past had in common more than intelligence and competence; they also possessed the capacity to dream and the passionate desire to realise their dreams. The ancestral figure that stood out from the rest in the mind’s eye of the young Sayyid was that of Said bin Sultan. The name evoked images of distant territories and towns of legendary beauty that had once belonged to Oman. Despite commanding a vast and powerful state, Said bin Sultan appeared to the prince to have been neither arrogant nor despotic. The famous traveller, Sir Richard Burton, who

knew Sayyid Said, said of him: ‘One felt that one was before a majestic personality, religious but not intolerant, kind and noble.’

One of the factors creating social stability in the empire of Said bin Sultan was the lack of discrimination against any national, religious or social group, a valuable lesson to be tried and tested later by the prince.

During his reign, Indian merchants gained total commercial freedom and became a major feature of economic life from Mozambique to Arabia. The good relations between India and Oman in that period created a valuable reservoir of goodwill on which both countries were still able to rely on many decades later.

Ahmed bin Said SOZ 1744-83

Hilal

Qais

Said SOZ 1783-89

Seif

Al Busaidi Family Tree*

Sultan SOZ 1792-1804

Said (1791-1856) SOZ 1804-1856 (1)

Tuwaini SO 1856-66

Hamad (1853-96) SZ (6) 1893-96

Haroub Khalifa (1879-1960) SZ 1911-60 (9) Abdulla (10) SZ 1960-63 Jamshid (11) SZ 1963-64

Muhammed

Salim SO 1866-68

Hamoud (1847-1902) SZ 1896-02 (7)

Ali (8) (1884-1911) SZ 1902-11

Turki SO 1871-88

Faisal SO 1888-13

Majid (2) (1834-70) SZ 1856-70

Barghash (3) (1837-88) SZ 1870-88

Khalifa (4) (1854-90) SZ 1888-90

Ali (5) 1852-91 SZ 1890-93

Abdid Aziz 1848-

Taimur SO 1913-32

Said SO 1932-70

His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said

SOZ - Sultan of Oman and Zanzibar SO - Sultan of Oman SZ - Sultan of Zanzibar *Only the names of the most prominent family members are given

33

W

CHAPTER 3 EDUCATION ABROAD

hen Qaboos bin Said arrived in London, the sensitive young man was overwhelmed by the contrasts. After the calm of Salalah this huge city seemed an infinite and mysterious labyrinth. Bulky red buses, the endless f low of pedestrian traffic, the rich green parks, the ancient churches and the steel-grey waters of the Thames, all evoked intense curiosity in his mind. The young prince began his British education at the county of Suffolk.

In his years at Bury St Edmunds, Qaboos became accustomed to Western culture.

He was fascinated by photography and developed it as a hobby during this time, trying to capture the remarkable places and scenes. When he had mastered the fundamentals of photography, he started to experiment with chiaroscuro. He took closeups of f lowers, plants and leaves.

Classical music was another of the Sayyid’s hobby. His natural love of music had been fostered by the melodies from his childhood.

Music was an integral part of the many festivals held in Salalah – not just the music of Oman, but music brought to Salalah by merchants and sailors from Yemen, India,

34

His Majesty (top row, left) at his graduation ceremony, Sandhurst Military Academy, UK

Iran and Indonesia. In England the Sayyid became deeply acquainted with the music of the West, studying composition and the particularities of different musical genres.

This growth of musical awareness was of service later when he began to play classical pieces himself and was instrumental in his

decision to inaugurate the first symphony orchestra in Oman.

As his horizon widened, he grew to realise that to confine his interest to the affairs of his homeland and the Arab world was not only politically naive, but impossible to

life. As the tutors say, the purpose of the first term is to knock all the nonsense and laziness out of the recruits; not until then is it possible to turn them into effective commanders. This is the basis of every military school throughout the world: without learning to submit, a person cannot become a part of the military machine. The motto of Sandhurst Military Academy is ‘Serve to lead’. Many years later, speaking to the graduates of the school, Sultan Qaboos said, “I learned that with responsibility comes obligation.”

one who had grasped the fact that all these events were links in the same chain.

There were regular letters from his mother that helped him keep his connection to his homeland alive. The bond between mother and son also grew tremendously during these years. The Sayyid’s studies in Bury ended in the summer of 1960. His private tutors considered that the heir to the Omani throne had mastered English sufficiently to begin a course at the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst. For the first time he had to immerse himself in the world of professional soldiers. Situated on the Berkshire border, 50km from London, Sandhurst is one of the best-known and most respected military schools in the world.

On being admitted to Sandhurst in the autumn of 1960, Sayyid Qaboos was given a British military identity card, on which his name was preceded by ‘HRH’ (His Royal Highness). In every other respect it was a standard army document. The photograph glued to the card had him sport a cadet uniform and unusually short hair.

Although military service was tough for everyone, it was particularly difficult for one who from birth had been brought up to be a ruler. From the moment Qaboos entered the school, he had to forget everything he had

been accustomed to from childhood – the deference and the privilege – and learn the formative art of submission.

Potential regular officers undergo a two-year course. During this period, three-mile runs are conducted daily in full marching kit. Drill on the parade ground, cleaning rooms, assembling and stripping weapons, cleaning ammunition and washing uniforms are activities that are drilled into young men accustomed to an easy

The commanders and teachers made no class distinctions among their cadets, whether British or foreign. Sayyid Qaboos received no preferential treatment on account of his royal background. This rare anonymity offered him a unique opportunity to understand what it was to be a soldier, a lesson which was to serve him well in the future – his ability to share the difficulties of camp life with the soldiers of his army made his name a symbol in the war that defined the future of Oman.

Finally the day of their graduation arrived.

Assembled on a parade ground in navy blue dress uniforms with stand-up collars and white belts, the students waited for the signal to begin a passing-out parade.

Bugles and bagpipes began to play, followed

35

by drum rolls, and the students moved forward on command, with measured steps.

They turned, and in even rows the students marched through the main entrance to the Old Building, followed by an adjutant on a white horse. Qaboos bin Said received his lieutenant’s epaulettes and his military education was finally over. Even after many decades, the Sultan of Oman remembers this event with great delight and considers it one of the major landmarks in his life.

After Sandhurst, Qaboos could have left for his homeland right away, but he preferred to put his knowledge to practice, and, like the majority of graduates, received orders for active service in the British army. He chose the Scottish Cameronian regiment, one of the oldest regiments in the British army, part of the 11th Brigade stationed in Germany. The atmosphere in this regiment was very different from that which had prevailed in Britain. Frequent practice alarms and manoeuvres kept them on the alert. The seven months in the Rhine Army were as beneficial to Sayyid Qaboos as his years in school. Not only did he command a motorised rif le unit, he also took part in manoeuvres involving many types of troops.

When his service in Germany was over, he returned to Britain. His father, Said bin

36

Taimur, believed a three-month round-theworld trip, known as the Grand Tour, would make his son aware that the Western model of development was not the only possible option.

As a young man, he himself had been to the major capitals of the world and considered the experience important to him as a ruler.

he felt himself becoming more and more versatile. There, in the final days of 1963, the heir to the Omani throne was probably realising how much the sultanate would have to be transformed. Pride in his native land’s history did not blind Sayyid Qaboos to the misery into which it had fallen.

Sayyid Qaboos’s journey around the world was one of the stages of his growing selfawareness. With every new country he visited

The time had come to return to Oman and put into practice the knowledge he had acquired over the previous six years.

F

CHAPTER 4 DESTINED TO RULE

rom earliest childhood, a legitimate heir to the sultanate is provided with the requisite education and special preparation necessary to equip him to rule.

The representative of a dynasty feels he has a huge responsibility of delivering the state to his successors safe and sound. It is because of this that few rulers are inclined to risky ventures, whereas so many of those who seize power by revolutionary means end up throwing the country they profess to love into chaos.

By 1964, considerable oil reserves were discovered in three fields, Naith, Yibal and Fahud. With oil in commercial quantities, Oman had the potential for rapid

development. The Sayyid was overwhelmed with ideas and it seemed that time was passing away fruitlessly like water running through the fingers. He loved his country and he knew he had the capacity to change the life of his people for the better. At 25, Qaboos was yet to see Muscat; he did not really know the country that he would probably have to lead.

Oman rapidly found out about the changes that had taken place on 23 July 1970. The young Sultan’s declaration spread through the country with the speed of lightning. All the news agencies of the world published the text of the Sultan’s address to the people. It was

permeated with such sincerity and with such trust in his fellow countrymen that it won the hearts of the people. Omanis everywhere read and reread these words from the appeal: “I promise you to proceed at once with the task of creating a modern government. My first act will be the immediate abolition

of all the unnecessary restriction on your daily lives. My people, I will proceed without delay to transform life into a prosperous one with a bright future. Every one of you must play his part towards this goal. Our country in the past was famous and strong.

If we work in unity and cooperation, we will regenerate that glorious past and we will

take our rightful place in the world.�

Usually when the leadership changed hands, comment was limited to platitudes, and the new ruler carried on affairs as did his predecessor. This time everything looked different. In every word of the new ruler’s appeal a hunger for change was manifest.

37

A

CHAPTER 5 AT THE HELM OF AFFAIRS

n aeroplane from Salalah landed on the runway close to the Beit al Falaj fortress. The door opened and the figure of the new Sultan appeared, wearing a dark, semi-transparent bisht over a simple white dishdasha, and an amama assaidiya – a red, blue and gold turban. His Majesty saw his capital for the first time. It seemed that all Oman had assembled to greet him.

Thousands of rif les fired continuously, and their sound echoed through the barren mountains surrounding the airport. A multitude of people in white dishdashas and multicoloured kummas (headdress), dancing and brandishing swords, ran towards the plane. A silver khanjar shone at each waist.

Muscat charmed him.

Crowds accompanied the monarch right up to Al Alam palace. Only when the voice never before heard by the people of Oman was projected by loud speakers, reverberating throughout the palace forecourt, did the music and the gunfire fall silent. No one wanted to miss a single word. The Sultan’s speech was direct and clear: “We hope that this day will mark the beginning of a new age and a great future

38

for us all. We promise you that we shall do our duty towards the people of our dear country. We also hope that each one of you will do his duty in helping us to build the prosperous and happy future that we seek for this country, because, as you know, unless there is cooperation between the government

and the people we will not be able to build our country with the speed required to free her from the backwardness she has endured for so long.”

City gates were no longer closed at dusk; no one asked you to walk with a lantern at

night; shopkeepers no longer asked to see your permit if you wanted to buy a radio or sunglasses.

After some days in Muscat, attending the popular celebrations, Sultan Qaboos bin Said set out for his first trip around the country. His objective was to meet ordinary people and tribal leaders and to hear at first hand of the problems that needed to be resolved. It was time for him to actually see what he had for so many years pictured. His first impressions proved deeper and richer than he could have imagined. It seemed to the Sultan that the past itself was coming alive before his eyes as he visited the streets, palaces and forts where his predecessors had lived, rejoiced and suffered.

U

CHAPTER 6 EARLY REFORMS

pon his return to Muscat on 9 August 1970, the young Sultan Qaboos made a radio speech in which he declared his will to change the name of the country, which for half a century had personified a division into two inimical states. ‘Muscat and Oman’ was to disappear from the map and the ancient name of Oman, which had glorified the land of seafarers, warriors, farmers and bedouins, would return once again.

The Sultan announced the introduction of a new flag. Instead of the red banner of the sultanate and the white one of the Imamate, a new standard of white, red and green was adopted, symbolising the fusion of the valuable traditions of the Imamate and the sultanate through the single religion of Islam.

The main concern of the Sultan after the events of 23 July was to form a government capable of instituting rapid and effective

The young prince had spent many years studying the spiritual heritage and history of Oman and he knew his country deeply, but all his knowledge was filtered as though by a screen through which he was completely invisible to his people; now his country was lying open before him, and he, too, was no longer hidden from view. The world tour that Sayyid Qaboos had taken before his return to Oman might have broadened his mind, but this tour around his own country tapped deep into his soul.

39

reforms. Just one person was suitable for such a role at that time – the Sultan’s uncle, Tariq bin Taimur. The Sultan decided to ask him to accept the daunting post. The fact that the Sultan made one of his most important decisions, not on the basis of personal considerations but in the interests of the country, sent a signal to everyone that the new leader would cultivate a pragmatic style.

Everything had to be dealt with at once – finances (a complicated and bureaucratic taxation system), communication (there was none outside Muscat), transport (there was no regular air communication with any state), health (only a few hospitals existed), education (three schools catering for the whole of Oman), the army (outdated weapons and insufficient strength).

The first attempt to devise an effective instrument for carrying out the monarch’s plans was the creation of a Provisional Consultative Council. For about three months, while negotiations were held on the formation of a new government, this Council was occupied with developing and executing priority measures in every sphere. All oil revenue was brought under strict control. Projects on the rational use of credits and aid, promised by some of the Arab countries, were drafted.

From the beginning of September prices for all types of fuel were lowered. In the same month the first school for girls and the first school for nurses were opened. Candidates for ministerial posts were finalised at the end of autumn. Heads were appointed for the ministries of Internal Affairs, Justice, Awqaf (Religious Endowments), Health, Education, Labour

40

and Social Insurance, and Information. The Sultan reserved for himself the portfolios of the defence, oil and finance ministries.

The high rate of illness and disability was evident everywhere, and most people were illiterate. Oman’s infant mortality rate was one of the highest in the world. Many Omanis had received their education abroad, but almost none returned, preferring to use their knowledge for the benefit of the countries that had given them hospitality. These people formed the essential base of the young Sultan’s ambitious plans to transform Oman into a modern state.

His Majesty asked his compatriots to return to their native land and take part in the process of renovation. And the response was extraordinarily enthusiastic. Moved by patriotic enthusiasm, recent graduates of European universities did not seem to be in the least daunted by the difficulties that awaited them. The most precious thing that the young Sultan had was the support of his fellow countrymen and he could not afford to waste this support through a halfhearted implementation of the promised transformation.

The monarch was convinced that without education all attempts at liberalisation would

degenerate into anarchy – only informed subjects could consciously participate in the rebuilding of society. Even before the realisation of the first development projects, schools and centres for adult literacy were created throughout the country. Often classes were held in the shade of a large tree, with no textbooks. Many teachers were expatriates, and those from other Arab countries were not always sufficiently versed in the local dialect.

Yet the resulting improvements in education were impressive.

By 1975, literacy had increased to 30 per cent of the population. The state provided generous support for Omani youths to study abroad.

Thousands of students went to universities and colleges in Arab countries, Europe and America. This enabled the country to satisfy an urgent need for qualified specialists.

In 1982, by decree of the Sultan, construction began on Oman’s first university. About USD500mn was spent on the construction of lecture halls, libraries and living quarters, and on extending communications and planting trees. In four years a piece of desert was replaced by a magnificent campus. Speaking at the opening of the university on 9 November 1986, Qaboos bin Said declared: “The university has the particular responsibility to preserve Omani values and

traditions and to preserve the valiant and exemplary Omani heritage as an incentive to our young people to serve their country by carrying forward what has been achieved in the past.”

Another top priority for Oman has been the creation of a modern health service. Before 1970, few Omanis had any knowledge of vaccination, pharmacies, or effective preventive medicine. In just a few years a revolution in medical care has occurred. Omanis have literally and metaphorically been given a new lease of life – the average lifespan in Oman nowadays is 72 years, whereas 30 years ago it was a mere 50 years.

The most spectacular projects, realised to a considerable extent in the first year of His Majesty’s rule, included the construction of the Muscat-Sohar road, a modern airport in Seeb and a seaport in Muttrah. By the end of 1971, 15 new schools, six hospitals and several dozen clinics had been opened, while 7,000 schoolchildren, including 1,100 girls, were attending school on a daily basis. All this swiftly and dramatically changed a lifestyle established over centuries.

Now it was time for the country to step into the international arena if it was to reestablish itself in the diplomatic field.

41

CHAPTER 7 INTO THE WORLD ARENA

E

ver since His Majesty brought about the end of Oman’s political isolation, international relations have been one of his main concerns. Due to the understaffing of the foreign services, the Sultan and the Prime Minister had to take on an additional burden, and at first

42

they actually divided the responsibilities of a minister of foreign affairs between themselves. Both went abroad on nonofficial visits, during which much of the groundwork was laid for the recognition of Oman by authoritative international organisations and leading countries.

Britain was the first to offer support to the new administration; the government announced its official recognition of Sultan Qaboos bin Said on 29 July 1970. The first foreign leader to visit Muscat was the ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al Nahyan, who arrived in October of the same

year. The meeting of the two rulers was very cordial.

Sultan Qaboos liked the dynamic and witty Zayed bin Sultan. The fact that this courageous and successful reformer was the first to show solidarity with the new Sultan, who was just beginning to work out plans for modernising his own country, was highly symbolic.

One of the first actions of the new regime was to send missions of goodwill to Arab countries – in early 1971 emissaries visited Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Jordan, Iraq, Yemen, Lebanon, Morocco, Algeria and Egypt. His Majesty invited representatives of many countries to visit Oman in order to see the country and to establish relations on an equal footing. The efforts of the diplomats began to bear fruit. The Universal Postal Union became the first international organisation to open its doors to Oman in January 1971.

On 24 May of the same year Tariq bin Taimur asked the UN Secretary General to admit Oman to this organisation. Among the non-Arab countries that had recognised the sultanate by the beginning of June 1971 were India, Pakistan and Japan.

The years spent in Salalah pouring over historical volumes and spiritual treatises had sharpened Sultan Qaboos’ perception of history. He saw the need for changes similar to those that Said bin Sultan had brought about at the commencement of his rule.

As for the major world powers, from the very beginning Sultan Qaboos bin Said adopted a policy of utmost

43

openness. In 1973, Oman became a member of the Non-Aligned Countries.

Omani diplomats think that the Sultan is the founder of a new school of international relations, which is based on a single principle: the world is moving towards multilateral collaboration and regional limitations will soon be removed. The Sultan declared in an interview with the monthly magazine, The Middle East, that: “The world is growing smaller, and I firmly believe that all countries should follow these precepts and seek to understand each other, to cooperate with each other, and to work together for the benefit of all mankind. There have, incidentally, been encouraging signs in recent years that conf lict between states is becoming recognised as utter foolishness, and that disputes between countries must be settled by means of negotiations, and not war.” (The Middle East, November 1995) Oman has established diplomatic relations with 135 countries. Flags of all colours f lutter above the embassy district in the capital area. None has yet been lowered as a sign of rupture in relations: the sultanate is also unique in this – in recent decades all of its neighbours have from time to time resorted to this extreme measure.

44

O

CHAPTER 8 MODERN TIMES

il revenues soared from the end of 1973. The increase in energy prices after the Arab-Israeli war in 1973 lasted until 1981. It enabled the state to fund social programmes and led to a rapid increase in income for every family.

Until 1982, when the first oil refinery was brought on stream in Mina al Fahal, fuel and petroleum products had to be imported.

Now the country’s domestic needs are fully

satisfied by its own industry. The Sultan has always considered the country’s oil to be the fuel for other sectors of the economy. He has been active in creating new fields of industry and in ensuring that Oman becomes selfsufficient in food, especially since the difficult year of 1986.

The country’s ambition is to develop a diversified economy that is not at the mercy of f luctuations in the price of oil. Some of

these projects have already been realised; others are being considered. The country produces and exports marble, limestone, gypsum, salt, chromite and cement. The medium-sized industrial estates, the first of which was established at Rusayl in the foothills of the Hajar al Gharbi range, are pioneers of modern industry. More and more consumer goods are labelled ‘Made in the Sultanate of Oman’ – the bottom line being alternative sources of income have to be found before the oil runs dry.

A brand-new gas liquefaction plant near the ruins of Qalhat, a town which was destroyed in ancient times by an earthquake, is a symbol of the country’s economic progress.

On 18 November 1996, the Sultan specifically mentioned the opportunities that would arise after the Sur complex was opened: “Our LNG project... is one of the major steps which aims to find diversified sources for our income. The implementation of this project will result in substantial economic returns, one of which will be the attainment of additional financial resources for our future development plans, and an additional injection of strength to our national working capital.”

As with all modern nations, Oman’s growing

youth population was facing employment challenges. During his annual tour of the country in 1998, Sultan Qaboos gave a speech before the leaders of the Batinah, in which he focused on the problem of employment for young people: “All over the world foreign labour is used.

It is a normal phenomenon. But when it is not a necessity, and a great deal of money goes abroad and local people consider certain

jobs shameful socially, this is not acceptable.

Omanis have always been hard workers and Omanis also go abroad to work; it is a normal practice, it is a mutually beneficial affair. And God orders human beings to go around for the sake of earning a livelihood.

Our reliance on foreign labour, however, must have reasonable limits.”

Oman has avoided the usual pitfalls of modern societies experiencing rapid and far-reaching

45

changes – especially depersonalisation and standardisation. This is what makes the renaissance initiated by His Majesty unique.

His personality, his aesthetic inclinations and his loyalty to historic traditions and religious values have been the most important factors of this velvet revolution.

In the process of renewal, care has been taken not to damage or harm the natural environment. Hundreds of historic forts, mosques, palaces and public buildings have been preserved. Yet it is not only the conservation of old buildings that enables the country to preserve its distinctive architectural identity: the modern architecture of Oman also pays greatest respect to its own national traditions.

Muscat, Salalah, Sohar, Nizwa and other important centres of Oman have managed to avoid even a hint of American style.

On being asked about his architectural preferences in an interview with Figaro Magazine, the Sultan said: “I particularly hate glass buildings... But of course we don’t interfere with the interior decoration.” (Figaro Magazine, 30 April 1994) Reverence for Oman’s past is expressed not only in the maintenance of its historic monuments, but also in the creation of

46

new structures that pay tribute to their memory. The ultra-modern naval base in Wudam was named after Said bin Sultan.

The newest combat ships are named after vessels which distinguished themselves in the naval battles of past centuries. The guards

H

proudly wear traditional uniforms, though they are armed with submachine guns instead of swords and smoothbore guns.

The Sultan is deeply concerned to avoid the catastrophic consequences of environmentally unsustainable development.

CHAPTER 9 AFTER A BUSY DAY

is Majesty’s interests are as wide as they are eclectic. At certain times he joins writers and discusses different subjects with them. His library contains books on different aspects of society, economics, religion, politics, diplomacy and warfare. In 1971 His Majesty told Nasr bin Mohammed al Taie, the first newspaper editor and writer in Oman, that he wished to go on a voyage of the gulf because he loves the sea. In November 1990, His Majesty spoke to His Highness Haytham bin Tariq al Said about his hobbies thus: “Since my childhood, when at the age of four, I was put on a horse back, I have loved riding but now-a-days, due to the enormous responsibilities of governance, I cannot indulge in this hobby regularly. Shooting is a favourite hobby too and I like testing different types of weapons, rif les, machine guns or tank cannon, but rif les and pistols

are my favourite. I also like walking by the sea as it helps de-stress the body and allows peaceful thinking. Photography is also one of my pastimes.

“Sketching was once a hobby but now time does not permit this luxury. Reading books was also a passion, however these days it’s usually only those dealing with the nature of my work. The most favoured hobby is Astronomy and the movement of stars. I have a small observatory which I hope to improve in due time… ” In 1995 the Middle East edition of an American newspaper focused on His Majesty’s person and achievements as follows: “It is known that you are loved by your people as an educated leader. What are the factors, persons, teachers and experiences that formed your personality?”

In reply, His Majesty said, “There are many factors that lead from youth to maturity and in my case, my father was always pressing me to study my religion, the history and culture of my country and this influenced my awareness of my responsibilities towards my people and humanity in general. I also benefited from the western culture. My military studies had deeply affected my career; lastly I had a chance of benefiting from my reading of the political and philosophical writings of famous people.�

In spite of being overloaded by his official duties that leave no time for rest, His

Majesty practices riding and tends to his horses. He has built numerous stables and a stud farm. He always attends the horse race usually held at the beginning of every New Year. He is also keen about camel races.

Extremely fond of the outdoors, wild life as well as sailing, he practices these interests during his trips in winter when he, along with his ministers, travel across the sultanate from village to village, living in tents under the blue skies or moving from one mountain lodge to another seeking the welfare of his people. He also cares a lot about agriculture and horticulture and possesses a number of productive farms

and f lower gardens. Recently, a variety of scented roses was internationally given the name Sultan Qaboos.

The dramatic recovery of the Arabian Oryx can be cited as an example of his intrinsic love of the wild life. Small herds used to inhabit the vast peninsula and bedouins on camels with regular smoothbore guns did little to reduce their numbers. But with the coming of Land Rovers and the development of long-range rifles, the situation abruptly worsened. In 1972, in the Jiddat al Harasis desert, the last wild Oryx was killed. Three years later His Majesty decided to restore

47

the Oryx to Oman. Through the agency of other Arabian rulers, the World Wildlife Fund and the London Zoo, a few of the last remaining Arabian Oryx were caught and given refuge in Kenya; from there a herd of nine were delivered to Phoenix Zoo in Arizona, USA, where the climate is similar to that of Arabia. There the Arabian Oryx began to breed. In 1982, a plane with five of these offspring landed at Seeb International Airport and they were transported to the place where wild Oryx had last been seen – the territory controlled by the Harasis tribe. The Sultan agreed with the sheikhs that the tribe would take them under its protection. The animals were kept in an enclosure and in due course became accustomed to their new home.

Shortly thereafter they were joined by two more groups of young Oryx from Phoenix. By special decree of the Sultan the National Park of Jaaluni was established as a centre for rearing Oryx for the wild.

The creation of the Sultan Qaboos International Award for Nature Protection in 1989 testifies to his sincerity on the point that preserving the natural environment cannot be left to individual nations. Only broad international cooperation can restore the earth’s environment.

His Majesty’s passion, however, is music.

48

It is more than a hobby and almost as important to him as politics. His passion lies with classical music, but he also enjoys the folk music of various countries like Poland, Romania, along with traditional Arab melodies. The Oman Symphony Orchestra formed by the Sultan has reached

O

maturity, and its musicians have studied at a number of prestigious European centres, in particular, London.

When His Majesty has a moment to himself he improvises on his lute, and on rare occasions plays the organ.

CHAPTER 10 THE MELODY OF HIS TUNES

ne of the most striking qualities of His Majesty is his mercy and tolerance.

He is ever vigilant about the development of his people and leads through example. His vision has restored to Oman its historical glory and his leadership and diplomacy has forged a progressive and proud Oman on the geo-political stage of the world. He is truly the heart and soul of the nation.

In a reply to a question on how he sees the future of his country, His Majesty responds with one word: “Bright”. His love for his country and countrymen is evident in his speeches and interviews. He is quoted by an English journalist: “I feel responsible for all my people. A monarch should see himself as father of the entire nation. A monarch is a mirror. He

ref lects his people’s history and their culture.”

While others stay awake reading literature, His Majesty stays awake reading letters from his people. His happiness in discharging his duties is his characteristic feature. His Majesty’s conduct showed wisdom beyond his years even during his youth. One of the examples retold is that he used to attend the entire Majlis of Sheikh Hamood al Gafri showing not even a hint of exhaustion or boredom although he had just returned from Britain. Regal in his demeanor, personality, carriage and conduct, His Majesty has always portrayed values of decency, forgiveness and high moral principles. When he took over the responsibilities of the head of state, he honed and built on these characteristics. His wisdom, maturity and humanity are the hallmarks of his leadership style.

RARE MOMENTS

49

50

51

52

53

54

Highlights of the decade His Majesty unified the country, abolishing the title Sultanate of Muscat and Oman and creating a new geographical entity known as the Sultanate of Oman

The Omani flag was approved

by Royal Decree

1970 1971 1979

The depletion of the Arabian Oryx led His Majesty to establish the Arabian Oryx Project at Jiddat al Hirasis

1973 1975

Central Bank of Oman (CBO) started its operations

The name of Oman’s currency was changed from Saidi Rial to Omani Rial and it became the official currency of the sultanate The Seeb International Airport was opened, replacing the airstrip at Bait al Falaj

Birth of the omani rial It was after 1970 that Oman had its own national currency. This was one of the major reforms following His Majesty’s accession to the throne

T

he year 1970 welcomed not only His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said but also the first united national currency in the form of notes and coins. That was the start of the Saidi Rial which started to be circulated in May 1970 and was widely accepted around the country. It is always difficult to get evidence on the type of money that circulated in a country in the past and if it hadn’t been for an important discovery in Sinaw in 1979, nothing would have been revealed about the past currencies in use in Oman.

In 1979 people found treasure in Sinaw containing a number of old Sassanid, Amawy and Abbasid coins. In addition, two silver coins without date were discovered which researchers claimed were minted as per the orders of Imam Ghassan bin Abdullah (807-824). Dhofar was one of the major coin minting centres in Oman back then and one of the famous European currencies used in Oman and the Arab Peninsula in the past

64

was the Maria Theresa Thaler, known locally as the French Rial. It was in such high demand that the Austrian Mint continued to mint this coin even after the death of Maria Theresa in 1780, keeping the same date engraved on the coin for quite a long time after.

As Maria Theresa Thaler was a big coin and did not have smaller denominations to ease local transactions, Indian copper and silver coins came into use in the absence of a national currency.

And so, during the era of Sayyid Said bin Sultan, Maria Theresa Thaler and Indian coins were the currencies in use in Muscat and Zanzibar.

When Sayyid Barghash bin Said ruled Zanzibar, a special currency was issued and minted in Brussels and the year 1299H was engraved on it. This currency was called rial (silver) and was fashioned after the European currency system, and the baisa (copper) was fashioned after the Indian system.

The front and rear face of the Maria Theresa Thaler 1780 silver coin

Twenty fifth National Day Anniversary coin

Coin collection at the CBO Museum

His Majesty ordered that the coins minted in 1971 carry the name of the Sultanate of Oman, embodying national unity

The first coin carrying the name of Muscat appeared in 1311 Hijri, during the era of Sultan Faisal bin Turki. It carried the picture of the Jalali Fort.

In 1939, Sultan Said bin Taimur gave his orders to mint the copper baisa coins and the national logo was engraved on it. It also had the name of Dhofar and the picture of the God Trustee Said bin Taimur, Sultan of Muscat and Oman. After that, in 1958, the Saidi Rials appeared in the form of silver coins.

When His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said started his rule in 1970, the new Saidi coins played a major role. His Majesty ordered that the coins minted in 1971 carry the name of the Sultanate of Oman, embodying national unity.

After this the name of the currency was changed from the Saidi Rial to the Omani Rial. On April 22, 1971, the sultanate became a member of both the International Monetary Fund and the International Bank.

In 1972, on the second anniversary of the

65

Coins currently in use

National Day, the second issuance of Omani currency started to be circulated, and the Omani Monetary Council replaced the Monetary of Sultanate, Muscat. In 1974, the Omani Central Bank replaced the Omani Monetary Council. In 1976 and at the sixth anniversary of the National Day, the third issuance of notes started to be circulated.

On 23 July 1982, Oman Renaissance Day, the Central Bank issued the 50-Rial note. In 1985, the Omani Central Bank started to replace the third issuance of the notes with a new group carrying the photo of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, which is considered the fourth issuance of the Omani coins, in addition to the memorial coins that the Central Bank issues to mark the important events and the national occasions.

66

Present day fifty rial note

Old one rial coin

Special coins marking 100 years of coinage

The first coin carrying the name of Muscat appeared in 1311 Hijri, during the era of Sultan Faisal bin Turki

40th

Chamber for progress Since its inception in 1973, the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry has revolutionised the country’s development

E

stablished by Royal Decree on 15 May 1973, the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) contributes to the development of private sectors and conducts studies to identify business opportunities for its members. The Chamber was founded by a group of prominent Omani businessmen led by His Excellency Mohammed bin al Zubair, who proposed the idea of establishing an Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The OCCI was born in the early period of the Blessed Renaissance. In 1972 HE Mohammed bin al Zubair invited key Omani businessmen in a bid to prepare a blueprint for a trade organisation.

Subsequently, a meeting was held to form the founding committee of the OCCI. The members of the committee included Mohammed bin al Zubair, Late al Haj Ali Sultan, Late Qais bin Abdulmuneim al Zawawi, Late Said bin Nasser al Hashar and Mohsin Haider Darwish.

68

A request for the establishment of the OCCI was then submitted to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said. His Majesty issued a Royal Decree in 1972 endorsing the formation of the founding committee for the OCCI. This was followed by another Royal Decree issued in May 1973, stipulating the rules and regulations of the Chamber. The decree also announced the appointment of Mohammed bin al Zubair as its chairman.

Since then the OCCI has contributed to government policies on the finding of alternative sources of national income and the creation of a new role for the private sector in the country’s development. OCCI is now a member of more than 20 joint chambers and unions, including the International Organisation of Employers, the International Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of the GCC Chambers, the General Union of the Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture in the Arab countries.

His Majesty issued a Royal Decree in 1972 endorsing the formation of the founding committee for the OCCI

OCCI is a member of more than 20 joint chambers and unions, including the International Chamber of Commerce OCCI promotes export of different products

The OCCI board of directors are responsible for guidance and implementation of rules. The Board consists of 22 members, 15 of whom are elected by secret ballot. One member from each of the following regions and governorates are chosen: al Batinah, al Dhahira, al Dakhiliya, al Sharqiah, al Wusta, Dhofar governorate, Musandam governorate and Buraimi governorate.

The Chairman of the Board and the other seven members are appointed by Royal Decree.

relations, economy and contracting, labour, insurance, banking and investment, foodstuff, agriculture, fisheries, oil and gas, training and Omanisation. The OCCI helps promote the government’s Omanisation policy by organising forums and it has established a special department for training nationals. It has active representation in joint committees concerned with training, including the Omanisation monitoring and follow-up committee.

The OCCI has 15 specialised committees active in the fields of information, international

The Chamber organises foreign visits for Omani delegations and takes part in Arab meetings

69

All Omani food products adhere to international quality standards

including those of the board of Arab Chambers Union. It also takes active part in programmes and events organised by joint European and Arab chambers.

In the context of the sultanate’s intention to consolidate economic cooperation with Arab Gulf Countries Council and Arab states, OCCI signed a number of joint agreements for trade and economic cooperation with similar organisations in those countries, including the establishment of joint businessmen councils, exchange of information and visits, organising joint exhibitions and conferences and conducting research and studies. OCCI has hosted a number of events in the past

70

and received trade delegations from some Arab countries.

The OCCI currently has eight regional branches: Salalah, Sohar, Sur, Buraimi, Ibri, Ibra, Nizwa and Khasab, as well as offices in the Rusayl Industrial Estate and in Rustaq district. And as part of OCCI’s efforts to find international markets for Omani products and to attract foreign investment, two foreign commercial offices in Taipei, Taiwan and Johannesburg, South Africa, have also been set up. OCCI’s aspirations have taken Oman a step forward in its development since its inception in 1973, with each member making their remarkable contribution towards the development of Oman’s commerce and industry.

The OCCI helps promote the government’s Omanisation policy by organising forums and training nationals

Felicitations to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said and the people of Oman on the auspicious occasion of the 40th National Day

COUNTLESS GOALS The Oman National team’s victory in the 2009 Gulf Cup was an important page in the history of the Oman Football Association

T

he Oman Football Association (OFA), the governing body of football in Oman, was founded in 1978. It has been a member of the Asian Football Confederation since 1979 and FIFA since 1980.

The OFA is considered to be the biggest sports association in the sultanate and controls over 40 clubs in various provinces of the country.

continued for more than five years before the redeclaration of the OFA officially on June 26, 1983, by a Ministerial Decree.

Although football has been practiced in the sultanate since the beginning of the last century when the British introduced it through their military garrisons, Omani football was first documented with the Oman Club only after 1942, when the club was founded. The Oman Club was initially known as the Maqboul Club.

With the advent of the modern state of Oman and with His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said’s accession, most of the clubs in the sultanate were officially declared and the government began organising various official tournaments, especially His Majesty’s Cup and the Regional League tournaments. These were begun under the auspices of the Youth Affairs Department in the then Ministry of Education and Youth Affairs. The team also participated in their first international football ranking and now continues to represent the country in the Gulf Football Cup.

In 1978, after the association was founded, the first Board of Directors were appointed under the chairmanship of the late His Highness Sayyid Faisal bin Ali al Said, who was the then Minister of National Heritage and Culture. This Council

Later, the Statute of the OFA was established and the organisational structure of its constituencies, its workforce and the various local tournaments were organised. Omani football was able to achieve significant progress

72

The OFA is The biggest sports association in the sultanate and controls over 40 clubs in various provinces

FOOTBALL HAS BEEN A LONG-TIME FAVOURITE SPORT, but Omani football was first documented only after 1942

1979 HM Cup being awarded to the winning captain at Oman Club

at the regional, national and international levels in the past, which helped them take part in various football forums at the Gulf, Arab and Asian levels.

There are five major teams in Oman: the first team, the Olympic team comprising players under 23; the youth team (under 19); young teams (under 16) and the bud team (under 14).

They are supported by the sultanate clubs which compete with each other in league competitions at various levels in addition to His Majesty’s Cup tournament. The team also took part in major football tournaments and reached the top of its international achievements by winning the fourth place in the World Cup for Youth teams in Ecuador in 1995.

73

The Oman National Football team

August 30, 2007, is a very important date in the pages of Omani football history as on this date the first official elections to form the elected Board of Directors for the football association was held in the presence of FIFA regional representatives. During this forum the overall vision for the development of the Omani football into a thriving industry was presented by Sayyid Khalid bin Hamad bin Hamoud al Busaidi. He won the confidence of the general assembly and was

74

elected the Association Chairman of the Board of Directors for the next four years.

Omani football has now entered a new era of development through the introduction of scientific programmes and modern systems. A marketing committee has also been created, which helps organise programmes for increasing the financial incentives for the clubs, taking OFA to the next level in its growth.

Omani football has entered a new era of development through the introduction of scientific programmes

Connecting OMAN At every step Omantel has ensured that the connectivity and technology are in place to make the country grow and develop

I

n Oman the telecommunication sector has evolved beyond recognition in the space of just forty years.

“Omantel has been the true pioneer of telecommunication in the sultanate and has been responsible for the introduction of every major advancement in the industry during these four decades,” stated Mr Samy Ahmed al Ghassany, vice president, Integrated Network and Technology, Omantel.

From connecting the nation with LANDLINES to the introduction of smartphones, Omantel has impacted the nation

From the early days of simply connecting the remote corners of the nation with fixed line telephones to the introduction of the most sophisticated smartphones, Omantel has impacted every part of the social fabric of the nation. Omantel’s growth has been simultaneous to the development of Oman, each benefitting from the strength and stability of the other.

“The technology that we have brought to the sultanate has enabled the nation’s economy to

76

Samy Ahmed al Ghassany

This is the largest network footprint of any telecommunication operator in the country.

The company has been responsible for introducing major telecom innovations to the country and ensuring that the population benefits from the rapid advances in technological development from all corners of the world. Samy adds, ”We introduced the first mobile phones, put in fax and telex lines, pioneered dial-up Internet, and then broadband and wireless systems. Our new brand tagline launched earlier this year is a clear representation of what we stand for as we have truly brought the nation ‘Together’ and intend to continue on this path for the future.”

grow, prosper, compete and connect to the world, helping to create a stable and prosperous country that is looking ahead to the next 40 years,” continued Samy with pride.

Telephone exchanges and the ability to talk easily across vast distances played a vital role in building the cohesive nature of the emerging Omani nation. This further helped to connect communities and bring the country closer together. Today Omantel reaches over 97 per cent of the populated areas of the sultanate.

78

Explaining the innovative technologies introduced to the sultanate by Omantel, Samy elaborates, “Among the most recent technologies that we are now using is Fibre to the Home (FTTH) that supplies high speed services to the door of the domestic user. This latest technology has already been introduced

by Omantel to the Wave and to Muscat Hills – providing the potential for triple-play services and far quicker broadband connectivity.

Additionally we are finding an increasing number of partners who want to use our state-of-theart MPLS (Multi-Protocol Label Switching) system. The highly tailored service provides a different range of bandwidths to suit the specific demands of customers and allows

FTTH technology supplies high speed service to the user and has been introduced to the Wave and Muscat Hills

Omantel’s market has grown from 700,000 subscribers at the launch of Oman Mobile to over 2.8 million today

them to securely connect multiple sites through Omantel’s MPLS Cloud system.”

In the past six years there has been enormous growth in the mobile sector with Omantel’s market growing from 700,000 subscribers at the launch of Oman Mobile to over 2.8 million today. “Across every area of our business Omantel has grown and expanded to meet the demands of individuals, business houses and the government. It has meant that we have been able to touch every part of people’s lives

– from guaranteeing mobile connection in the interiors to providing systems that connect ATM machines of every leading bank and becoming a regional hub for global cable connections from Australia to the West Coast of the USA,” elaborates Samy.

“We are proud to have been at the heart of our great nation’s progress for four decades and are eagerly looking ahead to the challenges the next 40 years will bring to our business,” concludes Samy with a smile.

79

IMPLEMENTING A VISION The first Five-Year Plan concentrated on the country’s economy benefiting from oil resources and its success lay in its practicality

F

or national economic and social development, governments formulate five-year plans that aim at arranging national key construction projects, managing the productive forces of the country and sectoral contributions to the national economy. It also maps out the direction of future developments and sets targets for corporations to achieve.

Further, it included medium term five-year successive and integrated plans, which come within the framework of the strategy. All these plans aim at achieving the long-term objectives of the society.

The first five-year plan for Oman was implemented in 1976 after the development council approved the Omani development strategy in February 1975. The plan laid stress on the infrastructural development of Muscat, which further provided new opportunities for trade and tourism in the 1980s and 1990s, attracting migrants from around the region.

The First Five-Year Development Plan (19761980) coincided with the phase of oil boom and it concentrated on the country’s economy benefiting from the newly found oil reserves to complete the infrastructure, increase the economic capacity of the country and promote the private sectors. The most prominent achievement of the implemented plan was the establishment of the State General Reserve Fund (SGRF) in 1980 as per the Royal Decree No. 1/80, which aimed at ensuring economic stability and sustainable development.

The planning operation was formulated on long-term plans, explaining the main strategic directives for the development of the country.

Since 1970 His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has always emphasised the importance of health in social and economic development.

80

The most prominent achievement of the plan was the establishment of the State General Reserve Fund (SGRF)

Development of the urban centres in Muscat started with the First Five-Year Plan

81

including improving the health of the Omani people. A Royal Decree was issued to establish the Ministry of Health (MOH) in August 1970.

Since then the MOH was able to build from scratch a modern national system that offers all Omani citizens universally accessible health services free of charge. Such developments were only possible through proper health planning and therefore the MOH developed five-year plans, the first of which started in 1976.

Health Science Institute, Muscat

This stimulated the government to realise the potential returns from investments in health.

Improved health would contribute to economic growth by reducing production losses because of workers’ illnesses, increasing enrollment and achievements of school children who form the basis for the developing population, and freeing, for alternative uses, resources that would otherwise have to be spent on treating patients.

The first five-year plan of the MOH aimed to reconstruct and develop the already available health resources as well as those established after 1970. The plan also included the strategies for the development of the educational services.

It continued the policy of spreading education, in addition to diversification of education. Two model vocational schools were opened, one for girls and one for boys, a secondary agricultural institute was opened in Nizwa in addition to a commercial school for boys.

Within its framework, initially, four five-year plans were prepared covering two decades. Some of the long-term objectives of the strategy were: â—?

Working towards the development of new resources for national income, besides the oil resources, and replace them in the future

â—?

From the beginning, the government made a commitment to develop a modern welfare state,

82

To emphasise on the development of domestic human resources capable of assuming its role in the Omani economy

Since 1970 His Majesty has always emphasised the importance of health in social and economic development

â—?

To increase investments directed towards income generating projects, especially in the areas of industry, mining, agriculture and fisheries

and the different obstacles, which hinder the completion of the commercial markets. This is to increase the competitive activity and secure a reasonable level of prices

â—?

Due to the realism of these plans, there was wide participation of both government and private sectors in its formulation. This had a pronounced effect on the success of the first five-year plan. And this laid the foundation to what was accomplished since the Oman renaissance.

Attention shall be given to water resources, as it is a vital element for the continuation of the economic activity and its development and maintenance of environment

â—?

Supporting domestic trading activity through removal of difficulties of transport, storage

The first five-year plan of the MOH aimed to reconstruct the already available health resources

Education was an important aspect of the First Five-Year Plan

83

Face to face The Royal Tours which started with His Majesty’s accession to the throne reflect his powerful relationship with his subjects

A

fter some days in Muscat attending the popular celebrations following his accession to the throne, Sultan Qaboos bin Said set out for his first trip around the country. His objective was to meet his people and tribal leaders and to hear at first hand the problems that needed to be resolved.

The tradition has continued with clockwork precision since then. His Majesty’s tour of his homeland is a specific Omani tradition and reflects the powerful and unique relationship that exists between him and his subjects. The tours demonstrate his desire to be in touch with his people, with whom he frequently holds one to one discussions to get a feel of their living conditions.

His Majesty, accompanied by certain ministers and advisors, travels around the country – sometimes for several weeks at a time - stopping off in various places to meet the citizens, sheikhs and dignitaries. These meetings take place either

84

at Royal Camp sites or on the road in more spontaneous encounters.

His Majesty’s tours of the wilayats are particularly significant in that they provide a vital and highly personal channel of communication between the leadership and the people, where citizens can speak directly to the Sultan, and express opinions freely. His Majesty told the Kuwaiti daily newspaper Al Seyassah during a tour in February 2006: “I must admit that I greatly enjoy these tours I make around the country... I meet the people face to face and listen to their requests, while they listen to my views... Checking on the state of one’s subjects is not unusual in the history of Islam and is generally regarded as one of the duties of a leader. There are citizens whose situations do not allow them to knock on certain doors, so I come to them directly.”

Three seminars on the employment of national manpower have been held during His Majesty’s

His Majesty, accompanied by certain ministers and advisors, travels around the country – sometimes for several weeks

During his annual tours His Majesty meets his people and discusses issues of concern to Oman and its citizens

85

“There are citizens whose situations do not allow them to knock on certain doors, so I come to them directly,� said His Majesty

During the Royal tours directives are issued on the implementation of road, water, electricity and other services

tours. The third, which took place in January and February 2005, produced recommendations on several matters including the Sanad project, and are now already put into practice.

During the Royal Tours decisions are taken and directives issued on the implementation of road, water, electricity and other service projects in various wilayats, or on resolving obstacles causing delays to projects currently in progress. Since these projects are not covered by the General State Budget, the budget must be amended to accommodate them. In

2005 additional budget allocations totalled OMR331mn.

As His Majesty’s tours are usually lengthy affairs, foreign heads of state and senior officials frequently gather at the Royal Camp if they visit the sultanate during a tour. The tours are regarded as an important part of the country’s political life. As Sultan Qaboos has noted: “During my tours of the country I listen to old and young, treating everybody whatever their social status with respect.”

87

Highlights of the decade Mina al Fahal, the first refinery in the sultanate was inaugurated.

The Rima oil fields came on stream as well during the same year

The State Consultative Council of Oman, Majlis a’ Shura was formed

1981 1982 1986 The Sultan Qaboos University was opened and received its first batch of students

1984 1985

The Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra was formed

PDO and the government signed a ten-year contract that enabled PDO to dedicate resources specifically to the task of finding gas

Homecoming Many Omanis left the shores of their country in pursuit of knowledge, choosing to come back and be a part of the country’s transformation

T

hroughout the last four decades the educational process has been running against the clock for the purpose of achieving great expectations and high ambitions. Today, as Oman stands at the threshold of the 40th National Day, the educational sector has undoubtedly achieved the desired target.

The Omani higher education system is relatively young, as the first public university in Oman, the Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) was founded in 1986. Prior to the establishment of SQU, the government sent meritorious students to pursue higher education in neighbouring Arab countries and also to the United Kingdom and America. We spoke to three such people who returned to their homeland after their education abroad and are currently pursuing successful careers in Oman.

Our story begins with Kamilia al Busaidi, a lawyer with a practice in Oman. She is also the Deputy Chairperson of the Lawyer’s Association of Oman.

In 1972 she travelled to Cairo, Egypt, for her

92

Kamilia al Busaidi

schooling. “After graduating from high school, I studied law at Cairo University. I came back to Oman in 1989,” says Kamilia. Coming back to Oman was a natural step for her. “After studying abroad it was my duty to come and serve my country to the best of my ability and knowledge.

I will choose Oman over any other country as the place I would like to work in and reside,” says the patriot in her.

We spoke to Dr Nasser al Taee, who is presently the Director of Education and Outreach at the Royal Opera House, Muscat. He graduated from Jabir bin Zaid High School in 1983 and was part of the first Omani group consisting of 15 students, who went to Seattle, Washington for undergraduate courses. He studied at the University of Washington and obtained a double BA in Music and Philosophy followed by a Masters in 1995 and a PhD in 1999 in Musicology from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).

If we add up his student years to the years of his professional career abroad, we can safely say, he was away from Oman for more than a quarter of a century. During these years he was committed to the pursuit of knowledge, dispelling common stereotypes that music is a form of entertainment and can’t be studied professionally and academically. Always taking inspiration from His Majesty’s unyielding devotion to education and commitment to the arts, Dr Nasser found it possible to stay abroad for as long as he did,

Dr. Nasser al Taee

knowing that he would be back at the right time to help Oman excel and prosper in his chosen field.

At the time, there were no opportunities to practice Musicology in Oman. This changed when His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said instructed the construction of the Royal Opera House in Muscat to be the leading institution for music and the arts in Oman. Dr Nasser says, “I thought it was my duty to give back to my country and participate by

Nasser knew that he would be back at the right time to help Oman excel and prosper in his chosen field 93

introducing the beauty of music to our community.

My goal is to build on the Omani society’s strength and long musical heritage to advance audience’s awareness and interests in the arts. It is one of my core beliefs that through music and the arts we can build bridges between cultures, and develop an understanding and respect for various traditions.”

“experiences provide us with an opportunity to learn more about ourselves,” says Tariq 94

Going on to the younger generation of Omanis who chose to pursue their careers in Oman after their education abroad, we spoke to Tariq Hilal al Barwani, the Founder and President of the leading community technology portal knowledgeoman.com and also the Head of Corporate Affairs in Nawras.

He left Oman in 2000 to complete his bachelor’s degree in computer science with honours at the Acadia University in Canada. This was followed in 2003 by a Masters in Information Technology at Swinburne University of Technology, Australia.

He was a ‘Straight A’ student throughout the programme and managed to complete his two years’ Masters in just 11 months, covering courses from Artificial Intelligence, Software Development, Mobile Devices Computing, Relational Database Management System, Networking and Data Communication, Advanced Web and XML Technologies, Electronic Commerce, Microsoft.net framework, and Internet Security.

Tariq gives credit to his university education abroad for his global outlook and open mindset.

College life away from the comforts and protection of a known environment is always challenging in the initial years, so it was for him.

Tariq al Barwani

In the long run however this is the period which helps a person develop lifelong traits and skills.

“All experiences, regardless of the outcome, provide us with an opportunity to learn more about ourselves and the direction we want our life and career to take,” says Tariq. “Serving the public and the community of the sultanate by the education, knowledge and experience attained and to firmly put Oman onto the Global World IT Map is how I work towards giving back to my country,” sums up Tariq, echoing sentiments of many more such people.

the press connection Media is influenced and shaped by the culture and economics of the society, thus becoming the mirror of the society in which it is operating

N

ewspapers are more than sheets of paper lined with ink. Their production holds a much greater significance than providing revenue for the publisher.

It is through the reading of the newspaper that society is informed of the local as well as the international events.

Oman’s media has a vital role in the political, social, and economic future of the modern state. Freedom of the press is guaranteed by law in Article 31 of Oman’s Basic Statute.

However, the exact wording “leading to discord, harming the State’s security or abusing human dignity or rights is prohibited”, leaves room for interpretations.

Oman News Agency (ONA) was established as per the Royal Decree No. 39/86 on 29 May 1986. It has been one of the units of the Oman Establishment till the issuance of the Royal Decree No. 75/2006 which transfers Oman News

96

Agency under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Information with effect from 16 July 2006.

ONA is the official channel for news about the sultanate and it is the centre which receives daily news and reports from various parts of the world and reproduces appropriate matter through its network to media inside the sultanate and abroad. ONA continuously improves its performance to achieve the following objectives: • Contributes to the development of the Omani citizen by acquainting him with the local, regional and international developments • Receives accurate local, international and Gulf news, reflecting the development efforts in various fields • Demonstrates trends of the public opinion and the views of officials judiciously, without jeopardising the safety or security of the state

A training programme for Omanis working in the press, radio and TV

or compromising individual dignity. This is in addition to collecting, classifying and analysing information on issues and topics of concern to the homeland and the citizens • Photographing domestic and international

events and preparing the same for distribution locally and abroad • Preparing interviews and reports to cover various domestic, regional and international developments

Oman’s media has a vital role in the political, social, and economic future of THE modern state 97

• Exchanging, marketing and transmitting its services with domestic, regional and international media.

ONA is linked to several news agencies in the Gulf and international informational institutions through cooperation agreements.

The news agency is making rapid advances on several fronts. Its editorial achievements continue to improve, its bulletins are transmitted using satellite technology and the Internet, and it collaborates with several international news agencies to ensure maximum balance and professionalism in its exporting. All the editorial and technical sections are staffed entirely by qualified Omanis who have helped expand its network of correspondents in Oman and around the world, enabling it to provide prompt and efficient coverage of events at home and abroad.

OEPNPA, an administratively independent body, is one of the largest press establishments in the sultanate 98

Oman Establishment for Press, News, Publication and Advertising (OEPNPA), was established in 1997 by Royal Decree 43/97, as an administratively and financially independent body. It is the largest and most sophisticated press establishment in Oman. Its modern premises are fully computerised with state-ofthe-art technology employed at every stage of the production process. Over 97 per cent of OEPNPA’s personnel are Omanis.

The Ministry of Information has introduced an

A Computer to Plate (CTP) imagesetter equipment

annual media creativity competition as part of its efforts to encourage Omani creative talent, improve professional standards and engender a competitive spirit among Omanis working in journalism and the media. The competition is overseen by a main committee, chaired by the Undersecretary at the Ministry of Information, in addition to four judges’ committees whose members are experts in the fields of journalism and the media. In the first competition, held in 2004, the entrants were from the press, Oman News Agency, radio and TV. Each general field covered had several sub-sections, totalling 29 sub-sections in all. Over 160 items were considered. Some 16 media institutions took part as well as various other establishments involved in producing material for radio, TV or the press.

The emerging workforce His Majesty’s address to the Council of Ministers on 28 September 2001 encouraged Omanis to take their livelihoods into their hands

O

manisation, a campaign meant not only to ensure job for each citizen but also to reduce dependence on expatriates in search of self-reliance in human resource, has become the government’s top priority since the address by the Omani leader to the joint house of parliament, devoted to the national manpower development.

The Omanisation programme has been in operation since 1988. By the end of 1999, the number of Omanis in government services exceeded the set target of 72 per cent, and in most departments reached 86 per cent. His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has underlined the growing need for collective efforts to boost Omanisation, saying he would personally follow up the implementation of the recommendations of the newly-created National Manpower Employment Forum.

In a bid to assuage the fears of the corporates

100

and come clear on the government’s latest moves, HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser al Bakri, Minister of Manpower, has said in the media that the ministry’s objective was to create an accurate database of foreign workers in the country, regularise the labour market, and develop the national manpower.

To achieve this objective, a simultaneous crackdown on illegal expatriates and a warning notice to all companies to comply with their Omanisation targets as early as possible were in place. The ministry also believes that the amendments to the labour laws would help cut down on the irregular and illegal workforce in the country.

The government has embarked on a realistic Omanisation plan for the year 2010. The targets are set for various sectors, and the Ministry of Manpower hopes to build on the success achieved so far.

Omanisation target for the year 2010 for the telecom sector is 68 per cent

Omanisation percentage set for the travel and tourism sector stands motivating as the number of skilled nationals within this sector has been increasing since 2004. For the automobiles sector the target is set at 58 per cent for the current year. The target set for the telecom

sector is 68 per cent, the number of engineers working in the country’s telecom sector will comprise 54 per cent nationals.

His Majesty said the Omani youth constituted a large vital section of the society and no effort

the Ministry’s objective was to regularise the labour market and develop national manpower 101

Networking professional at work

By the end of 1999, the number of Omanis in government services exceeded the set target of 72 per cent 102

would be spared to ensure a bright and dignified future for them. At the same time, he exhorted the youth to work diligently and selflessly for the development of the country, as “work, whatever its nature, is a virtue�.

On a different note, it must be understood that Oman as a developing country is just one and a half generations old. The tradition and the

culture of this land are gradually evolving. A couple of decades ago, only one member of a family would often be working, whereas the situation today has changed drastically. Now it is not only two or three of the family, but even the women have girdled themselves up as they have been empowered and elevated to their rightful place in society.

A unique democracy The State Consultative Council of Oman came into existence on November 3, 1981, paving the way for an indigenous Omani democracy

A

fter his accession, in early 1970s, His Majesty set up a council for agriculture, fisheries and industries.

This council proved to be very successful. This paved the way in the 1980s for establishing the State Consultative Council to help accelerate all round progress of the country, and the State Consultative Council came into existence on November 3, 1981, by its formal opening by His Majesty.

A president headed the State Consultative Council and comprised 54 nominated members representing government and non-government sectors. One-third (18) members represented the government sector and two-third (36) members represented the non-government sector. Most of the government sector members were undersecretaries concerned with social and economic development of the country. The State Consultative Council, during its existence for a period of 10 years from 1981 to 1991,

made valuable contributions through studies, deliberations, researches and field work which covered the entire Sultanate of Oman in the fields of economic and social developments.

The success of the State Consultative Council and its high performance has further paved the way for the establishment of Majlis a’ Shura whose members are elected by the people.

The Majlis a’ Shura functions in the form of a parliament of representatives from all over the country who freely debate and make recommendations on proposed policies and problems.

It was during the 20th National Day speech in 1990 that His Majesty announced the creation of the Majlis a’ Shura in place of the State Consultative Council. He then issued a Royal Decree on November 13, 1991, setting up the Majlis a’ Shura to promote harmony and serve the entire Omani society for their progress and

FOR THE FIRST TIME IN THE MIDDLE EAST TWO WOMEN WERE ELECTED TO THE MAJLIS A’ Shura FROM MUSCAT GOVERNORATE IN 1994 105

Opposite page: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said addressing the Majlis a’ Shura

prosperity. The inaugural session of the first ever Majlis a’ Shura was held on December 21, 1991, paving way for indigenous Omani democracy.

On an experimental basis, for the first time in the whole Middle East two women were selected to the Majlis a’ Shura from Muscat Governorate in 1994. This new development shows another instance of His Majesty’s recognition of women’s role in the society. His Majesty often said that women had an important contribution to make to society in which they live. By the election of the third Majlis a’ Shura women got equal chance to elect and be elected in all the Wilayats. Thus, Omani democracy is a time tested one.

IF YOU DON’T typecast OMANI DEMOCRACY YOU CAN SEE THAT DEMOCRACY HAS EXISTED HERE since LONG 106

Today, one can see Omani women working in almost all occupational areas. Their position in society is well accepted. On Majlis a’ Shura, His Majesty commended: “We look to the Majlis as a partner with the government in the work to build this country and serve the people through the available resources. The Majlis a’ Shura has proved itself capable of undertaking its tasks as evidenced from its recommendations. Women’s participation in the Majlis is an honour not merely to them but to the entire community. The step is also a correction of a wrong belief, which belittles the status, which Islam accords to women. The country needs every pair of hands for promoting national development, stability and prosperity.”

Oman thus became the first country in the Middle East to conduct elections to the Majlis a’ Shura by giving equal rights to women to elect and be elected.

regional unity The Arabian Peninsula includes KSA, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, Oman, and Yemen. Together, these countries (excluding Yemen) constitute the GCC

T

108

he Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) was established in an agreement concluded on 25 May 1981 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, between Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE. These countries declared that the GCC is established in view of the special relations between them, their similar political systems based on Islamic beliefs, joint destiny and common objectives. The GCC is a regional common market with a defence planning council as well. The geographic proximity of these countries and their general adoption of free trade economic policies are factors that encouraged them to establish the GCC.

planned to integrate naval and ground radar systems and to create a combined air control and warning system. Problems of compatibility with different communication and electronic systems, however, delayed the introduction of these programmes.

The immediate objective of the GCC was to protect the region from the threat posed by the Iran-Iraq War. Ground and air units of the sixmember states carried out several multilateral exercises between 1983 and 1987 under the code name of Peninsula Shield. The GCC

With oil receipts accruing to governments, the conduct of fiscal policy is central to the policy response of the GCC, and this has evolved somewhat over time. In the early years of the boom GCC governments prudently used increased oil revenues

Among the important achievements in the military field is the creation of the Peninsula Shield Force in 1982, which incorporates the credibility of the GCC. Another important achievement was the resolution taken during Kuwait summit in 1997, which entailed to link the GCC Member States with a military communication network for early warning.

His Majesty chairing the 29th GCC summit held in Muscat

to build up foreign assets and pay down government debt. However, the sheer size and duration of the oil boom has effectively allowed them to extend their policy options to encompass large and ambitious infrastructure programmes and increased provision of social benefits, while still maintaining fiscal and current account surpluses.

Budgetary spending on capital projects has risen strongly and government-related entities started to tap international capital markets to fund large scale infrastructure projects. In this they were aided by positive market perceptions

on the strength of GCC public finances and economic growth prospects, which also encouraged growing FDI inflows. The GCC countries have recently adopted a more proactive approach to addressing environmental issues on all levels: international, regional and national. This reorientation has resulted in the development of consistent strategies and policies on ecological modernisation.

The region’s growing population is increasing demand for transport infrastructure. This has spurred the governments of several GCC countries to look at inter-city and intra-city railways as a viable option.

In the early years of OIL boom GCC governments used increased oil revenues to build up foreign assets 109

Highlights of the decade Framework of Vision 2020 was formulated

The Basic law of the State was publicised and the Defence Council was established

1995 1996

Economic Co-ordination Council was established

1999 1998 Higher Education Council and the Capital Market Authority (CMA) was set up

1997 Oman Development Bank (ODB) was established as an Omani public joint stock company

Bound by law The Basic Law of the State, publicised on 6 November 1996 with 81 articles, sets out the citizens’ public rights and duties

E

very country needs to set down laws for its citizens to make the nation a safer and a better place to live in. The Basic law of the State of Oman was publicised on 6 November 1996, comprising 81 articles. It lays down a legal framework of reference governing the functions of the different authorities, and separating their powers. It also affords safeguards to guarantee the freedom, dignity and rights of the individual.

This historic document sets out Oman’s system of government and the guiding principles behind the state’s policies and also details public rights and duties.

Governance in the sultanate is based on justice, consultation and equality. With the Basic Law of the State the sultanate enjoys democracy where the citizens have the right to take part in public affairs. But democracy is introduced gradually to the people of Oman. As Khalid al Haribi, managing director, Tawasul, says, “With

114

Nasra al Adawi

leadership in a country you have a separation of powers between the executive, judiciary and legislative branch of the government and you have a guardian of civil rights. In Oman we are lucky to have that cover, because our leadership believes in a balance of power between the branches of the government. The leadership in Oman strictly believes that if the public, whether man, woman or youth, do not have full commitment to this accountability and the balance of power, we will not have a society that firmly believes in civil rights.”

Tawasul is a think tank – a policy research institute formed in 2008. Tawasul focuses on raising awareness on social and corporate issues. They have concentrated on empowering women politically. Tawasul was adjudged the second runner-up of the Intilaaqah Best Entrepreneur Award 2010.

Khalid reiterates, “Oman as a nation has over 5,000 years of civilisation and history, but when it comes to politics you have to make sure people understand the relatively modern and new concepts like democracy and participation.

We completely support our leadership’s gradual approach even though it seems slow. But in regional events it proves to be right.”

About 50 per cent of the people are already aware of their civil rights, according to Khalid. “Of course, we always encourage people to realise that it is their responsibility to be aware of their

Khalid al Haribi

civil rights. Civic education is part of the Omani curriculum. All the conventions and agreements that Oman ratifies are a part of Omani national law, and therefore enforceable in Oman.”

Nasra al Adawi, projects manager, Tawasul, says that the new generation of Omanis are more educated. “But women still need to know what their rights are. What benefits she can get from these rights, thereby ensuring she is not exploited.”

Governance in the sultanate is based on justice, consultation and equality with democratic benefits 115

Government

Executive

Judiciary

Comprising 30 members accountable to the head of the state, His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said

Headed by the Supreme Judiciary Council, includes the Ministry of Justice, Public Prosecution and the Royal Oman Police (ROP)

Legislative

Lower Chamber Upper Chamber

Courtesy: Khalid al Haribi, MD, Tawasul

tawasul focuses on raising awareness on social and corporate issues and empowering women 116

is the state council which consists of around 75 members appointed by the head of the state

As Khalid says, though, freedom to women has been a part of Oman even before the leadership of His Majesty. “Oman in the past has had women in leadership positions and there have also been women scholars in the Imamate period. It has been a tradition for 1,000 years now.

“Women have been in leadership positions in spiritual, literature and political fields. We have women civil undersecretaries and ambassadors

is the Majlis a’ Shura, with 84 members representing the 61 wilayats, appointed by freely contested elections held once every four years

in the executive branch of the government.

The judiciary branch has 30 public prosecutors and some are heads in populous regions. The legislative branch has 50 women in the state council and there were also women in the lower chamber, and hopefully they will make a comeback in the 2011 elections. So women have not only the basic rights, like driving, but also take part in decision making.”

“His Majesty stresses the freedom of women

in all his speeches, saying that for a country to develop, it needs a man and a woman,” adds Nasra.

Jihad al Taie, lawyer and legal consultant, explains the legal system in Oman. “The Government and the laws of Oman don’t distinguish humans as common and uncommon or ordinary and extraordinary. All citizens are treated alike in Oman. Article 17 of the Basic Law of Oman (Royal Decree No. 101/96) states that all citizens are equal before the Law, and they are equal in public rights and duties. There shall be no discrimination between them on the grounds of gender, origin, colour, language, religion, sect, domicile or social status.”

The Royal Oman Police (ROP) is a law enforcing agency and it helps in implementing the laws in criminal matters. Once the enquiries are concluded by the ROP, they forward the matter to the public prosecutors and from there to the courts.

Jihad says, “In the event of any violation of civil or commercial rights the complainant has the right to directly approach the judiciary. The judiciary has three levels, namely: the Primary Court, the Appeal Court and finally the Supreme Court. Supreme Court is the highest court in the country and its decision is final and absolute.

“Oman believes in free Judiciary. The judiciary is equally accessible to all and no one person

Jihad al Taie

is more important than another in the eyes of the law. Judgments are made on merits. Wealth and influence stops at the doors of the courts and have no relevance in adjudicating a matter.

In any criminal case, an accused is deemed innocent unless found guilty by the competent courts. Each and every accused has the right to defend himself and to appoint qualified attorneys. Though the courts are subordinate to His Majesty, to my knowledge there has not

the rOP is a law enforcing agency and it helps in implementing the laws in criminal matters 117

Civil Rights Civil rights are the rights of individuals to receive equal treatment (and to be free from unfair treatment or ‘discrimination’). ● Freedom of Expression is guaranteed unless it impairs national security or public order. As an extension to this it is important to note that the Freedom of the Press to publish a material is not restricted but only regulated. ● Freedom to Practice Religious Rites in accordance with recognised customs is guaranteed provided that it does not disrupt public order or conflict with accepted standards of behaviour. Oman is a country where mosques, churches and temples, in some places, share the same boundary walls. Oman’s churches and temples are built on land donated by His Majesty. ● Article (32) of the Basic Law grants citizens the Right of Assembly. However, such rights are regulated to ensure that the assembly will not expose the public order, national security, religious harmony etc, to any dangers. ● Personal Freedom is guaranteed in accordance with the law. No person may be arrested, searched, detained or imprisoned, or have his residence or movement curtailed, except in accordance with the provisions of the law.

Courtesy: Jihad al Taie, member of National Human Rights Commission and President of the Lawyer’s Association

the sultanate of oman has always strived for the protection of human rights and civil rights 118

been a single instance in which His Majesty has overturned a decision of the magistrate courts or the commercial courts. However, His Majesty has always been merciful and gives pardon to convicted persons mostly during religiously auspicious occasions.”

Jihad concludes, “As a member of the Human Rights Commission and more importantly, as an ordinary Omani citizen, I can honestly and proudly state that His Majesty has ensured

Rule of Law in this beautiful country with great success. If the basic foundation of Rule of Law is Equality for All, then here we are in a country which believes in and strives for Rule of Law.” Civil rights form a part of Human Rights and cannot be segregated. “And the Sultanate of Oman under the able leadership of His Majesty has always strived for the protection of the Human Rights and thereby Civil Rights as well.”

A clear vision ‘Vision Oman 2020’ represents the sultanate’s economic and social development and is the blue-print for future progress

O

man’s economic policy-making is a series of five-year plans that sets down the objectives for all the government sectors. The economic plan evolves from a consultation process with inputs coming in from governmental and nongovernmental organisations and then the Ministry of National Economy draws up the five-year development plans.

By 1995, Oman had completed four fiveyear plans, the first of which had begun in 1973. And drawing on experience a new vision for Oman’s economic future was shaped. ‘Vision Oman 2020’ outlines proposals for the sultanate’s development over twenty-five years, from 1995 to 2020, and it takes into account the far-reaching changes in world economy and the revolution in telecommunications and information technology that has transformed the global system of production and exchange.

120

‘Vision Oman 2020’ represents a dividing line between two stages of the sultanate’s economic and social development – the end of the initial development up to the country’s Silver Jubilee celebrations in 1995, and a new journey into the third millennium.

Under the wise and prudent leadership of His Majesty the Sultan, Oman has been able to witness remarkable and significant achievements within a short period of time. As the achievements represent the basic foundations for the take-off towards sustainable development, the continuity of the development needs vision and clearly defined objectives towards which all resources and means should be concentrated.

It was essential to prepare the required studies for carrying out a comprehensive evaluation of production and services sectors. The aim was to identify sectors that can be considered as leading ones. Such sectors contribute to broadening the

An advanced road network connects different parts of the sultanate

121

HE Anil Wadhwa, Ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman

country’s economic base, and their revenues may substitute for those of oil in the future. In order to formulate a clear vision for Oman’s economy up to 2020, the following measures were taken.

‘Vision Oman 2020’ outlines proposals for the sultanate’s development over twenty-five years, from 1995 to 2020 122

In its sixth meeting for the year 1994, held on 26 October, 1994, the Development Council reviewed the memorandum prepared by the Ministry of Development, regarding performance evaluation results of production and services sectors during the previous two decades. The proposed measures for development of these sectors during the next stage and up to 2020 were also reviewed.

What we would really like to do with Vision 2020 is to set up more warehouse facilities in the major ports, especially in Sohar, which is going to become a connection between the interiors, with the railway line coming up. Given our current situation, we have a downturn in certain industries in India which require a boost in exports. Those sectors right now are: gems and jewellery, textile, leather and fertilisers. In the fertiliser sector we need feedstock, for which Oman is an important source of gas. India, therefore, is a natural partner in the Vision 2020 document.

During the period between the months of January and March 1995, working groups consisting of the officials from the relevant ministries prepared a set of detailed sectoral reports with the aim of formulating a vision for Oman’s economy. The detailed sectoral reports prepared by the working groups included the following sectors: global changes, oil, gas, minerals, agriculture, fisheries, water resources, industrial, tourism, trade, banking, insurance, securities market, information technology and the telecommunications sector.

The Ministries concerned with human resources

Vision 2020 shaped Oman’s tourism policy

also prepared reports on Higher Education (Scholarships), Higher Education (Sultan Qaboos University), Health, Civil Service Training, Labour, Education and Technical Education and Vocational.

These reports were prepared in coordination with the Ministry of Development in some cases, and in cooperation with the World Bank and other specialists. The members of the Committee for the Formulation of the Vision for Oman’s Economy, and a number of ministers, held a meeting on 19 March, 1995. The objective of the meeting was to formulate the Vision for Oman’s Economy: Oman 2020. By the end of the meeting, the participants finalised a ‘Statement on the Vision for Oman’s Economy: Oman 2020’.

After introducing some amendments to the Vision statement, the Honourable Council of Ministers approved it in the Council meeting on May 23, 1995. On that day His Majesty the Sultan approved the Vision statement after making a number of amendments to the text. The primary dimensions of the Vision were then included in the Fifth Five-Year Plan.

Hence, the collective effort exerted by various sectors of the Omani community reflects the significant importance and attention attached to this national project. It also confirms an important and basic principle: the need for absolute consensus concerning the future directions of Oman’s economy.

On May 23 1995, His Majesty the sultan approved the Vision statement after making amendments to the text 123

Charity begins at home Oman Charitable Organisation, since its inception in 1996, has continued to help people in need at home and abroad

H

is Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has always dedicated himself to helping the people of his country. This was further established by a Royal Decree forming the Oman Charitable Organisation (OCO) in 1996. His Majesty was the founder donor of this organisation and it performs a range of charitable works with the aim of helping those in need at home and abroad.

In 1999, the OCO provided assistance to the Kosovo refugees and over recent years has given regular donations to the Palestinian people. It also offers emergency funds to countries, to cope with natural disasters, such as the tsunami.

The OCO supports social welfare projects, programmes and related charitable activities for children, orphans, the disabled and the elderly.

This organisation supports and finances social care programmes and projects for the benefit of the citizens of the sultanate. It collects

124

grants and donations and encourages voluntary assistance from individuals and corporations, both inside and outside the country. It also assists communities and individuals in the case of national and international disasters.

As part of their charitable work, the OCO has programmes to sponsor families with monthly supplies to satisfy their basic necessities. And since 1999 the organisation began to implement the rations aids programme throughout the year, and especially during the holy month of Ramadan. They distribute food packages sufficient for the subsistence of a family of four.

The OCO has a programme for orphans’ sponsorship and since 2002 has dispersed with financial support to a number of high school graduates belonging to the social insurance and limited income families. The contribution was equal to the third of the university and college fees.

HE Mohammed Sultan al Busaidi, Undersecretary, Ministry of Interiors, presents a donation to Her Excellency Dr. Sharifa bint Khalfan al Yahya’eyah, Minister of Social Development, on behalf of OCO

The OCO further provides financial assistance to citizens suffering from incurable diseases, especially when there is a chance that he/she could be treated abroad.

Their most noteworthy achievements include their plans for the execution of a number of developmental housing projects. This was to partially solve the housing requirements of the

social insurance dependent and limited income families. After site visits by various members of the administration board, it was decided that a number of rooms would be built to provide a safe haven to the nomads living in remote areas.

This plan, for lack of funds, took the form of a single room for a family, to be used during bad climatic conditions. And when donations started

The OCO supports and finances social care programmes and projects for the benefit of the citizens of Oman 125

OCO volunteers distributing food packets during Gonu

OCO’s achievements include their plans for the execution of a number of developmental housing projects 126

coming in, the execution of the plan began in 1999. During the years 1999-2002, four stages had been completed where 210 rooms had been built. Unfortunately the donation retreated after that and in 2002 the administration board decided to improve the project and look for a bigger size funding so that the system of the one room was altered to a complete lodging unit consisting of two or three rooms with utilities and patio according to the size of the family.

They were able to obtain financial support and

so, in 2003, 75 houses had been built in the eastern provinces. The execution of the sixth and the seventh stages in a number of provinces in the sultanate resulted in an estimated 50 and 40 houses, respectively.

Certainly, the social insurance dependent and the insurance waiting list families have benefited the most from these projects and the OCO is trying hard to improve and develop its humanitarian activities, looking for funds from diverse sources.

promising future The Fund for the Development of Youth Projects targets young Omanis with the initiative and desire to embark upon their own business

S

mall and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) form the back bone of successful economies by providing employment opportunities and add value to the overall economy by producing and exporting essential goods and services. The Omani government has placed great emphasis on creating the appropriate infrastructure and facilities that will support the establishment and growth of the SMEs through its economic diversification plan.

In early 1998, it was announced that His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said had initiated the Fund for the Development of Youth Projects (FDYP). This fund had been created on the initiative of His Majesty and collaboration of the private sector to act as a partner, providing capital for projects set up by young Omanis and to provide them with technical assistance and managerial support in order to set up their own businesses.

128

The scheme is aimed at turning young Omanis with the necessary business flair into entrepreneurs and to create a layer of small companies to complement the larger wellestablished companies in the private sector. In his 1998 National Day address to the nation, His Majesty spoke about the concept of this Fund. “The Youth of Oman, who have the spirit of initiative and the desire to embark upon their own businesses, should make use of the Fund for Youth Projects in financing them once they have assured themselves of their feasibility. They should avail themselves not only of the financial assistance offered but the experienced advice extended to them in marketing, administration, organisation, techniques and in economy. The main aim of this Fund is to encourage the Omani Youth to establish and own small and medium projects that will provide them and other citizens

The Al Magza Cement Products, which will sell light construction and agriculture equipment, is solely owned by Aziz al Mukhaini. A 3,000sqm factory located in the Sur Industrial Estate, it will be starting 60 per cent production by beginning of December this year. This is one of the projects that is approved and supported by Sharakah.

with career opportunities, thus contributing to the creation of a potent sector of these industries – industries which have become major factors in the growth of the global economy.”

The Fund, which was established by Royal Decree in November 1998 as an Omani joint stock company, named the Fund for Development of Youth Projects (SAOC), was formally launched in January 1999. The Decree exempts the Fund from company income tax for a period of ten years which may be extended for a similar period. It also gives exemption from corporate tax and tax on profits for five years to the Fund’s industrial and commercial projects.

The creation of the FDYP was a major milestone that reflected the country’s encouragement and commitment towards Omani entrepreneurs.

The FDYP unveiled its new identity in 2008, under the brand name ‘Sharakah’, as part of its reformed strategy to revitalise the fund’s operations in the sultanate and foster a new generation of Omani entrepreneurs.

Sharakah aims to become Oman’s leading entrepreneurial fund-offering service, with programmes dedicated towards the establishment and growth of Omani businesses, adding value to its stakeholders and the community at large.

Sharakah aims to become Oman’s leading entrepreneurial fund-offering service 129

The interior office space of Al Magza Cement Products

The FDYP unveiled its new identity in 2008, under the brand name ‘sharakah’, as part of its reformed strategy 130

On the new strategy, Hani M. Al Zubair, Chairman of FDYP, commented, “We will continue with our commitment to assist Omani entrepreneurs through our funding and advisory services. The Fund has undergone a complete evaluation and re-positioning exercise to ensure that the right mechanics, systems and procedures are in place to maximise results for the entrepreneurs and the Fund. This is an exciting time for Sharakah and we are inspired by the challenge that lies ahead.”

Hani also said that Sharakah will focus on a

diverse range of sectors including: hospitality (restaurants, coffee shops etc), leisure and entertainment, downstream industries, information technology, education and training, in addition to support services to the construction, tourism, and oil and gas industries.

Thus, the generous donation of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said to the Fund, followed by private sector companies as well as individuals who contributed to the share capital, has made it possible for the Fund to render its services to Omani entrepreneurs and sustain itself.

CELEBRATING PEACE His Majesty receives the first of its kind award, the International Peace Award, from the National Council on US-Arab relations

T

he year 1998 is a turning point in the history of the sultanate, when His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said’s efforts bore fruit. The Sultan was conferred with the International Peace Award by the National Council on US-Arab Relations.

It was presented by former US president Jimmy Carter and was accepted on behalf of His Majesty by longtime Omani Minister for Foreign Affairs Yousef Abdallah Alawi.

Founded in 1983, the National Council is an American educational, non-profit, nongovernmental organisation dedicated to improving American knowledge and understanding of the Arab world. The Council’s vision for the US-Arab relationship is one that rests on a solid, enduring foundation of strategic, economic, political, commercial, and defence cooperation, strengthened continuously by exchanges of present and emerging leaders among Americans and Arabs alike.

132

The council also seeks to enhance American awareness and appreciation of the multifaceted and innumerable benefits the US has derived from its relations with the Arab world.

It endeavours to do this through leadership development, people-to-people programmes, academic seminars, an annual Arab-US policymakers’ conference and specialised publications.

In October 1998, American, Georgetown, and Harvard Universities, the Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts, the United States Air Force Academy, and twenty-nine other American national non-profit organisations accepted the Council’s invitation to join it in presenting the first of its kind award ever bestowed upon an Arab head of state – the International Peace Award – to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the Sultan of Oman, a proud day, indeed, for Oman.

Founded in 1983, the Council’S VISION FOR THE US-ARAB RELATIONSHIP RESTS ON SOLID, ENDURING FOUNDATION 133

Flying High Since it began operation in 1993, it has been a journey of modern vision and timeless traditions for Oman Air

O

man Air traces its origin to Oman International Services (OIS). OIS started handling civil aircraft since 1950, when commercial air operations first began in the Gulf. However, Oman Air as we see it today was established in 1993.

Oman Air’s immediate predecessor, Oman Aviation Services (OAS), was formed in 1981, following OIS’s takeover of Gulf Air’s Light Aircraft Division four years previously. A year after its foundation, OAS started flying to Salalah in a joint venture with Gulf Air, and in 1984 OAS purchased its first jet aircraft.

The rest of that decade saw the airline build on its achievements, and in 1993 Oman Air was established. That year also saw its first international flight to Dubai, and its first flight to the subcontinent, Thiruvananthapuram.

Throughout the 1990s routes were opened up to

134

Kuwait, Karachi, Colombo, Mumbai, Bangladesh, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Chennai, Amman, Gwader, Jeddah, Peshawar and Al Ain in the UAE. While destinations like Gwader and Peshawar were discontinued, many other new destinations have been added and a number of former routes are likely to be resumed. Oman Air became a member of the International Association of Travel Agents (IATA) in 1998.

If the 1980s were marked by consolidation and the 1990s by expansion, then the millennium has been a period of high-quality growth and development, propelling the airline beyond the front rank of regional carriers.

In 2007, the Omani government sold its share in Gulf Air and re-capitalised Oman Air, increasing its stake from around a third to over 80 per cent. It has since increased its holding to over 99.61 per cent, reinforcing the airline’s status as the official flag-carrier of the sultanate. The new investment,

Oman Air’s long-haul destinations will include a new service to Milan

together with effective strategic planning, has enabled significant growth: the fleet is being further expanded with the addition of seven new Airbus A330s, powered by the quiet, clean Rolls Royce Trent 700 engine; and long-haul operations have also been launched to London, Paris, Munich, Male, Colombo, Kathmandu, Dar es Salaam, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. Further long-haul destinations are set to become operational over coming months, including a new service to Milan.

The Omani government’s support for the airline industry goes beyond its investment in Oman Air. Six new domestic airports in Oman have been

commissioned and are due for completion in 2013. In addition, two new international airport terminals are scheduled to become operational in 2014 at Muscat and Salalah, offering state-ofthe-art facilities, as well as runways capable of accommodating the largest passenger airliner in the world, the Airbus A380.

Oman Air truly is achieving its stated mission: to provide a safe, reliable and seamless flying experience. Over the last year, Oman Air has been reinvented as a modern, innovative and successful international carrier expressing the essence of Omani culture and hospitality.

the 1980s were marked by consolidation, 1990s by expansion, the millennium BY a period of growth 135

full steam ahead Natural gas on liquification reduces in volume by 600 times, making it possible to ship huge quantities around the globe

T

he business of Natural Gas starts with the many customers across the world that require clean, efficient energy for power generation, and industrial and domestic needs.

Getting gas to customers starts with the exploration for natural gas fields across the world and developing these gas fields in preparation for production. Such raw gas is often produced with heavier hydrocarbons, water and other contaminants which are largely removed in a ‘production’ process before being piped to further processing and use.

In the past natural gas could only be delivered by pipeline. This left many potential customers without access to this very useful source of energy. In the late 1960s, the first commercial ventures exploited the fact that liquefied natural gas occupies some 600 times less volume than it does in gaseous form to transport natural

136

gas efficiently and economically to distant customers: so initiating the start of what became a global business, bringing this clean and efficient fuel to many more customers.

Since its establishment in 1994, Oman LNG has progressed from a project under construction to a world class company, liquefying natural gas in its plant at Qalhat in the Sultanate of Oman and exporting it to international markets all over the world. Oman LNG harnesses cutting edge technology to provide the world with a purer source of energy, while contributing to the sustainable development of Oman.

Oman LNG is the largest public-private joint venture in Oman. Natural Gas is also the largest revenue contributor after oil to the Government of Oman and its people. The company was established under Royal Decree in February 1994,

by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said.

His Majesty inaugurates Oman LNG plant

In 2009 Oman LNG won the coveted GCC Award for Best in Compliance with Environmental Standards 137

Highlights of the decade The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque opened in May. It is one of Oman’s most striking architectural landmarks

Oman officially joined the World Trade Organisation, becoming its 139th member

2000 2001 2002

2010 2004 Jewel of Muscat which takes its blueprint from a ninth century ship set sail in early 2010

The Knowledge Mine was set up to build and accelerate growth in ICT industry and help diversify the national economy

Oman Wastewater Services Company (OWSC), which was rebranded Haya Water in October, builds, owns and operates a modern wastewater system

Homes for all Always keen on improving the living conditions of the people, the Royal Grant will benefit over 1,000 citizens in different governorates of Oman

H

ousing in Oman is a service sector that attracts special attention from the government as it relates directly to people’s daily lives. The Ministry plans comprehensive development programmes to serve the members of society in order to provide a stable family and social life to all.

His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said issued directives to exempt practitioners of simple professions and crafts, as well as pensioners who benefited from the soft housing loans scheme, from their outstanding loans. The Royal Grant is one of the continuous generous gestures of His Majesty to the Omani citizens. This grant comes on the occasion of the 40th National Day. His Majesty is always keen on improving the living conditions of his people. The Royal grant will benefit 1,178 citizens who meet the conditions in different governorates and regions of the sultanate.

During January to September 2009, the ministry

142

provided 47,356 plots of land for various uses in different areas of the sultanate. The ministry has been diverting the housing graphics to digital information, recognising the importance of going digital when it comes to urban planning, and deciding the future of the country.

The Ministry has granted land for various uses in accordance with the Royal Decrees and ministerial decisions and circulars. In the interest of the development of laws relating to land, the government issued Royal Decree No. 125/2008 to grant Omani women residential land without discrimination. This was a significant step, signalling the role of Omani women in the nation’s development.

Work is currently on to wrap up all applications for property and claims of allowing the granting tenure of government land without legal title.

An action plan was developed for the provinces of the sultanate, according to the provisions of

Houses built in Sur using the Royal Grant

Land Law, and completion of the file allocations of land in the sultanate in coordination with the competent authorities.

The land registration system in the sultanate depends on the real estate registry. This system aims at the preservation and maintenance of rights, by registering property in the documents of the land register.

Housing support comprises social housing programmes for low-income people to improve their living standards and assist them in achieving social stability through the provision of adequate housing. The Ministry is working to achieve this in coordination with government agencies.

The Ministry allows for three special programmes on the provision of social housing services,

During January to September 2009, the ministry provided 47,356 plots of land in different areas of the sultanate 143

Social housing programmes improve living standards of the citizens of Oman

the housing project aims to enhance social stability and contribute to community development 144

which include housing for certain categories of Omani families with low income and families that are merged under social security through social housing programmes, assistance programmes and housing loans for low-income people.

The Ministry of Housing is implementing construction projects in housing units in various

regions of the sultanate. The Ministry’s steps are in accordance with its aim to provide adequate housing to the various members of the community. Housing is, literally, one of the building blocks of a stable society. This project, accordingly, aims to enhance social stability and contribute to the development of local communities in the sultanate.

Felicitations to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said on the occasion of the 40th National Day of Sultanate of Oman Express Freight Services badar shipping agencies

We care and carry your cargo Badar Shipping Agencies LLC, PO Box: 662, PC: 117, Wadi al Kabir, Sultanate of Oman Tel: 24798186, Fax: 24798566, Email: bsaoman@omantel.net.om

Global shipping and logistic solutions

Red Sea Shipping Agencies LLC, PO Box: 662, PC: 117, Wadi al Kabir, Sultanate of Oman Tel: 24790299, Fax: 24790233/24798566, Email: bsaoman@omantel.net.om

Express Freight Services LLC, PO Box: 1294, PC: 114, Jibroo Sultanate of Oman, Tel: 24790202, Fax: 24790223 Email: efsoman@omantel.net.om

Entrust your cargo in us - We carry

REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE Haya Water is a government owned company formed in 2002, to build and operate the wastewater infrastructure in the Sultanate of Oman

T

he Omani government has embarked on a commendable project to improve wastewater services in Muscat. The negative impact of septic tanks on public health and the environment are well known and in the 21st century, a modernising, expanding city cannot afford the risk of tanks overflowing and raw sewage leaking into groundwater sources.

The decision to include a treated sewage effluent distribution network in the Muscat wastewater scheme is prudent as water reuse is set to play an increasingly important role in the decades ahead as the region’s water shortage grows. It will be especially important for allowing district coolers to use treated sewage effluent instead of drinking water. In neighbouring countries, efforts to encourage the use of treated water in cooling systems are being hampered by a lack of such infrastructure.

146

Oman Wastewater Services Company (OWSC) was established in December 2002 to build, own and operate a modern wastewater system for the Muscat governorate. It was set up with initial capital of OMR20mn.

OWSC was rebranded as Haya Water in October 2008 and remains headquartered in Al Khuwair. It oversees wastewater collection, treatment and treated effluent distribution across the governorate’s six provinces – Muttrah, Bausher, Seeb, Al Amerat, Quriyat and Muscat.

In the past the Muscat Municipality was responsible for the provision of wastewater services in the Omani capital. It operated a limited wastewater network that connected less than 14 per cent of the population. The rest of the city relied on septic tanks, which were periodically emptied by tankers, with the waste then taken on to treatment plants. The municipality’s network and its 11 treatment

One of the wastewater treatment plants

plants were transferred to Haya Water.

Haya Water operates under a 30-year concession agreement, which started on 1

January 2006. Its remit is to collect and treat wastewater for 90 per cent of the population in the districts of Muscat, Muttrah, Bousher,

In the past the Muscat Municipality was responsible for the provision of wastewater services in muscat 147

Seeb, Al Amerat and Quriyat, by 2017. The project is known as the Muscat wastewater scheme and involves building a sewage network and treatment facilities, as well as upgrading existing water treatment plants, which are exceeding their design capacities.

The company operates 12 treatment plants, which combined receive 50,000 cubic metres a day of waste from almost 80,000 residents. Under the scheme the firm will build six new major treatment plants and several smaller units. Haya Water is also installing a sewage collection network, with vacuum and gravity sewers and pumping stations. At the same time it is building a secondary network to distribute treated sewage effluent around the city.

Haya Water aims to connect 80 per cent of Muscat population to its sewage collection network by 2014 148

Haya Water aims to have 80 per cent of the Muscat population connected to its sewage collection network by 2014, and 90 per cent connectivity by 2017. As some areas of the governorate are inaccessible, full connectivity is not possible. The total cost of the project is estimated at USD4bn. The company is already in talks with a district cooling provider over a potential supply deal, and opportunities to sell water to resorts for the irrigation of golf courses are being explored.

Wastewater pipeline being laid in Al Khuwair

CAUTIOUS OPTIMISM Oman officially ‘arrived’ in the eyes of the international commercial community on 10 October 2000, with the signing of the WTO membership protocol

S

ince the mid 1990s, the Sultanate of Oman has been implementing a development strategy centred on a liberal trade regime, aimed at reducing its high dependence on crude oil and natural gas.

To this end, Oman is promoting downstream industries and tourism; improving education and health services; modernising its infrastructure; and addressing some structural problems, including the privatisation of state-owned enterprises (SOEs).

When HE Maqbool Ali Sultan, Minister of Commerce and Industry, signed the World Trade Organisation (WTO) membership protocol on 10 October 2000, the Sultanate of Oman officially ‘arrived’ in the eyes of the international commercial community.

For the Omani economy, keen on moving away from its hydrocarbon dependency, this membership held the key to future growth

150

strategy. Foreign investment is vital for developmental projects. The WTO membership capped the attractions needed to entice international investors.

However, the coveted membership came with a price. Trading practices had to be restructured, with a WTO-approved tariff system in place and subsidies and licenses phased out. Oman agreed to a general agreement of 15 per cent for all agricultural and industrial products (egg and liquid milk are at 75 per cent and petroleum at 20 per cent) and the liberalising of its services sector.

Local companies, protected by legal restrictions on foreign firms’ trading activities, were exposed to fierce competition from international rivals.

Oman already has its own autonomous liberalisation policies. For a majority of industrial products the bound rates are higher than the current applied rates. This gives Oman the freedom to protect industries where needed.

Infrastructural projects promoting trade in Oman

151

Modern ports play an important role in trading

While most agreed that joining the WTO was a necessity, they were wary of the negative initial spill-offs 152

Where the rates are equal to or lower than the current rates, it negotiated a five-year transition period for domestic industries to prepare themselves. Considering the comparative advantage in petrochemicals, there was no need for high duty protection in this sector. In addition, potential petrochemical exports would get easy access to developed markets with negligible tariffs.

The mood in Muscat was one of cautious optimism. While most manufacturers agreed that joining the WTO was a necessity, they were wary of the negative initial spill-offs. On the brighter side Omani products now have the opportunity to compete and enter different markets without

much difficulty. Manufacturers are able to expand their business outside the country. The lower IT prices, post WTO, also mean fewer barriers to the spread of technology.

Wholly owned foreign subsidiaries have been allowed in the banking, insurance, brokerage and securities, and computer service sectors, from January 2003 and in telecoms from 2005.

International companies have been allowed to freely set up shop and participate in the local market. Consumers will benefit as the efficiency of banks increase due to the competition.

WTO praised Oman’s performance in all sectors in a trade review published in 2008.

The Jewel sails The Jewel of Muscat is a symbol of partnership rooted in a spirit of exploration and adventure. We have traced the process of creating it

I

n 1998 a German company was given permission by the Indonesian government to excavate the wreck of a ninth century Arabian ship that had been discovered by a local fisherman off the island of Belitung, Indonesia. With the wreck of the sunken vessel were found 60,000 pieces of rare Chinese porcelain. The collection became known as the Tang Treasure.

154

initiative launched by the governments of Oman and Singapore that involves the reconstruction of a ninth century ship and sailing it from Oman to Singapore. The ship’s design is based on the archaeological findings of the Belitung Wreck. The ship represents a major feat of maritime engineering.

The Tang Treasure was identified as having been produced in kilns in what is now the Chinese province of Hunan. It was probably intended for export to Malaysia, India and Arabia. The shipwreck itself also revealed much about Arab shipbuilding and navigation from the period. Wellpreserved fragments of the ship showed that stitching was used by Arab craftsmen to bind the timber of the hull, while tests on the ship’s wood revealed its origin.

The technical model makers at RFH Pierce & Associates in the United Kingdom’s Lake District were commissioned to produce an exact model of the ship’s dimensions so that the team could test its movement in water. What makes the ship’s construction unique is its lack of nails: the wood planks are, in fact, sewn together. The planks were cut from the dense wood, Afzelia africana. In total, 42 tonnes of wood came from Ghana, and the team unloaded, cleaned off the fungus that had grown on it, and finally dried the planks, before construction could begin.

The project is an historical and cultural

Tom Vosmer, Construction Director, explained the

Jewel of Muscat just before launching. (Inset) Tom Vosmer, Construction Director

155

Crew, Jewel of Muscat

The project is an historical and cultural initiative launched by the governments of Oman and Singapore 156

importance of getting the garboards to fit exactly at the early stage of construction as they run along the length of the keel, it is essential that they fit perfectly. With the keel in place it was time to start the process of stitching the planks into place. The hull was sewn together with coconut fibre.

Built without nails to seal the hull, each timber had to fit perfectly. The wood was protected by a layer of goat fat mixed with lime. The unique nature of the ship caused many problems, but

solid teamwork solved most of them.

Tom explains what he hopes to glean from the this project. “They are looking to discover more about how the original ship was built, how it handled and how it sailed. As well as this, they are hoping to find out what life on board was like and even perhaps why it sank.�

The journey began in February 2010, with the ship reaching Singapore in June 2010.

157

A peaceful stop Oman was an incident-free stop for the Olympic torch parade which had been dogged by human rights protests on most of its earlier stops

T

he Olympic torch, symbol of the 2008 Games in Beijing, arrived for an expected trouble-free relay in Oman, its sole stop in the Middle East, on its way to China. Contrary to most of the other cities where the torch relay caused confrontations between police and anti-Chinese protesters, Muscat stood out as a peaceful stop.

Demonstrations are rare in Oman and the country was an incident-free stop for the torch which had been dogged by human rights protests on most of its earlier halts. Oman enjoys good relations with China which is a major destination for Omani oil exports, while Chinese companies are involved in several major infrastructure projects.

Thousands cheered and some danced with traditional daggers along the Olympic torch’s path through Oman’s capital. Under tight security, about 80 torch-bearers ferried the flame down into the heart of the capital city,

158

passing under historic stone arches and alongside the old souk, before winding along the edge of the Gulf coast against the backdrop of spectacular mountains.

The torch arrived from Tanzania and was received at Muscat International Airport by Oman’s sports minister. The festivities kicked off in the evening with the torch being lit by Muscat Governor Sayyid al Mutassim bin Hamoud al Busaidy, and handed over to Sayyed Shihab bin Tariq al Said, an adviser to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said.

By early evening thousands of Omanis and mostly Asian expatriates lined the streets to watch athletes and other Omani celebrities carry the torch along Muscat’s scenic waterfront. Torchbearers paused occasionally along the 20km relay route for performances by men in traditional Arab white robes, some with daggers tucked in their belts, dancing to the beat of drums.

The Olympic Torch carried through the streets of Muscat on 14 April 2008

The torch arrived from Tanzania and was received at Muscat International Airport by Oman’s sports minister 159

Index A Al Alam palace 36 Appeal Court 115 Arabian Oryx 45, 46, 58 Aviation 132 Azd 29

B Basic law of the State 110, 112 Beit al Falaj 36

C Calligraphy 30 Civil Rights 113, 116 Currency 58, 62, 63, 64

D Democracy 22, 103, 104, 112, 113 Development Council 120 Domicile 115

E Executive Branch 114

F Five-Year Development Plan 78 Frankincense 28

G Gulf Cooperation Council 106

H Haya Water 138, 144, 145, 146 His Majesty’s Cup 70, 71

160

His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said 13, 27, 31, 62, 63, 64, 66, 70, 78, 91, 98, 104, 114, 126, 128, 130, 134, 140, 156 Housing Projects 123, 124

I International Peace Award 130

J Jabir bin Zaid High School 91 Jewel of Muscat 138, 152, 153, 154 Judiciary Branch 114, 115

K knowledgeoman.com 92

L Labour Laws 98 Lakhmids 28 Lawyer’s Association of Oman 90 Legislative Branch 114

M Madrasa a’ Sayyidia 29 Majlis a’ Shura 88, 103, 104, 114 Maria Theresa Thaler 62 Mina al Fahal 42 Ministry of Health 80 Ministry of Information 12, 94, 96 Ministry of National Economy 118

O Olympic Torch 156 Oman Air 132, 133 Oman Charitable Organisation 122

Oman Club 70, 71 Oman Establishment for Press, News, Publication and Advertising 96 Oman Football Association 70 Omani Entrepreneurs 127, 128 Omani Monetary Council 64 Omani Rial 58, 63 Omanisation 67, 68, 98, 99 Oman LNG 134, 135 Oman News Agency 94, 96 Oman’s Basic Statute 94 Oman Symphony Orchestra 46, 88 Oman Wastewater Services Company 138, 144

Skilled Nationals 99 Social Welfare Projects 122 State Consultative Council 88, 103 State General Reserve Fund 78 Sultan Qaboos University 88, 90, 121 Sultan Said bin Taimur 28, 30, 63 Supreme Court 115 Sura 30

T

P

Tang Treasure 152 Tawasul 112, 113, 114 Telecommunication 74, 76 Trade 66, 68, 78, 106, 120, 148, 149, 150 Treatment Plants 144, 145, 146

Peninsula Shield 106 Primary Court 115

U

Q

Ubar 28

Qalhat 43, 134

V

R

Vision Oman 2020 118, 120

Radio and TV 95, 96 Rations Aids Programme 122 Religion 37, 44, 45, 115 Royal Decree 58, 66, 67, 78, 80, 94, 96, 103, 115, 122, 127, 134, 140 Royal Grant 140, 141 Royal Oman Police 114, 115 Royal Opera House 91

S Saidi Rial 58, 62, 63 Sandhurst 27, 32, 33, 34 Sayyid 28, 29, 30, 32, 33, 34, 37, 62, 70, 72, 156 Sharakah 127, 128

W Wilayats 104 World Trade Organisation 138, 148

Y Youth Affairs Department 70 Youth Projects 126, 127

Z Zanzibar 31, 62

161