Oman-UK state visit to deepen strategic ties

The State Visit of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to the United Kingdom is an important occasion for Oman, especially when we remember that the last formal state visit by an Omani Sultan to Britain was 44 years ago, in 1982, when the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said was welcomed by Queen Elizabeth II.
This does not mean there have been no royal visits since then. His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik met Queen Elizabeth II in 2021 and King Charles III in 2025. But this visit is different. It is a formal state visit, and such occasions do not come around every day.
Oman and Britain go back a long way together, almost 400 years, which is quite a history. Over those years, the two countries have worked together in trade, defence, education, business and many other areas. Their relationship has stood the test of time, even as leaders have come and gone and the world has changed. To me, what matters now is how this long experience can help both countries achieve even more together.
There is plenty on the table for this visit. The official announcement says it will focus on strengthening cooperation and discussing regional and international matters. Looking at the senior officials accompanying His Majesty, including those responsible for the economy, defence, education, foreign affairs, trade and investment, it is clear that there is much for both countries to discuss and develop together.
There will be a royal welcome at Windsor Castle, military honours, official photographs and a state dinner. These are important traditions that reflect the respect between the two countries. The visit also brings valuable opportunities to deepen cooperation across many areas, building on the work already taking place between Oman and Britain.
One of the most important aspects of the visit is the opportunity to expand economic cooperation. Britain is already a major investor in Oman, and both countries have much to gain from closer ties in trade, investment and business. This could mean more opportunities for Omani companies, stronger links between businesses in both countries and new projects that support the national economy.
His Majesty's visit comes at a time when Oman and Britain are looking to strengthen cooperation in several important areas, including renewable energy, manufacturing, technology and investment. These sectors have already been highlighted as promising opportunities for both countries and are closely linked to the goals of Oman Vision 2040. What makes this more important is the opportunity to build on these shared interests and take the relationship even further.
Economic cooperation is only one part of the picture, as Oman and Britain have also worked together in defence, security, education, research and cultural exchanges. His Majesty's visit offers an important opportunity to strengthen these areas and explore further partnerships.
When we hear about cooperation between countries, we often think of governments, ministers and large companies. But international relations can also touch everyday life in ways we may not immediately notice. A new investment may help a small Omani business grow. Cooperation in technology may improve a service we use. A partnership in tourism may create opportunities for families and communities. What makes His Majesty's visit especially meaningful to all of us is the possibility that cooperation at the highest level can bring benefits to people in different parts of Oman.
The political discussions are equally important. We live in a region where developments can quickly affect peace, security and economic activity. Oman has long believed in dialogue and peaceful solutions, while maintaining good relations with countries that do not always see eye to eye. Britain also has important interests in regional stability. The discussions during His Majesty's visit will give both countries an opportunity to exchange views on matters that concern them both.
Oman's position near the Strait of Hormuz gives it an important place in international trade and security. But geography is not the only reason. Oman's approach to dialogue and its ability to maintain communication with different countries are also valuable. These strengths make cooperation and discussions between Oman and Britain very meaningful at a time when international developments affect countries far beyond our region.
We know that sometimes the most lasting connections begin with something as simple as a conversation.
This is where political conversations positively affect the relationship between the people of Oman and Britain. Over the years, people from both countries have travelled, studied, worked and done business together. Such connections have helped build understanding and trust, and His Majesty's visit offers another opportunity to encourage these exchanges.
What I admire most about this visit is that it brings so many areas of cooperation together. From investment and trade to security, research, culture and international relations, the possibilities are broad. Different sectors may benefit in different ways, but together they can contribute to Oman's development and prosperity.
We will follow His Majesty's visit with interest and pride, looking forward to the opportunities it brings. Built on centuries of friendship, the relationship between Oman and Britain has a strong foundation. This important occasion offers an opportunity to strengthen it further, bringing benefits to businesses, communities and people across Oman.