His Majesty's state visit to boost trade and strategic ties

When His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik left Muscat on Monday for a four-day state visit to the United Kingdom at the invitation of His Majesty King Charles III, it was more than diplomatic protocol.
It was a reaffirmation of one of the oldest and most stable friendships in the modern world – a relationship that has endured for over two centuries and is now poised for its most ambitious chapter. Today, that historic trust is being converted into economic opportunity. And the timing could not be more significant.
Oman and the United Kingdom do not need to build trust. They already have it. What they are now building is scale. Rooted in mutual respect and forged by history, it has been sustained by shared interests in peace, stability and trade.
From 19th century treaties of friendship to defence cooperation, education exchanges and close people-to-people links, the UK has been a consistent partner in Oman’s journey. That continuity matters in a world where alliances shift quickly.
Oman is in the midst of a profound transformation under Oman Vision 2040. British firms are present across Oman’s economy – from energy and logistics in Al Duqm and Suhar, to engineering, education, healthcare and financial services.
The new generation of cooperation is aligned with the future. Oman is investing in green hydrogen, developing economic and industrial zones under OPAZ, expanding world-class ports – with Salalah ranked second globally in efficiency – and building new cities such as Sultan Haitham City. In all these areas, British expertise in renewable energy, engineering, finance and logistics is a natural partner.
Similarly, the UK is seeking reliable, long-term partners for energy security and resilient supply chains. Oman, with its strategic location overlooking the Strait of Hormuz, its investment-grade rating of BBB- Stable, its stable currency, and its network of free trade agreements including the unique Oman-US FTA, offers exactly that – a stable gateway to the GCC, Asia and Africa.
The high-level delegation accompanying His Majesty underscores this breadth. The visit covers the full spectrum – from defence to trade, investment, education and culture.
Oman offers 100 per cent foreign ownership, tax exemptions up to 30 years, and the 10-year Golden Residency. The UK is seeking to deepen trade post-Brexit. There is scope for a significant leap, and negotiations for a GCC-UK Free Trade Agreement, in which Oman plays a key role, will benefit from this visit’s momentum.
BP, Shell and other British energy majors have been part of Oman’s story for decades. Now they are partners in its transition – in hydrogen, carbon capture, wind and solar. The UK’s leadership in offshore wind and climate finance complements Oman’s immense solar and wind resources.
Thousands of Omani graduates from British universities form a living bridge between the two nations. With the Minister of Education part of the delegation, cooperation in higher education, research and vocational training is expected to grow.
What makes this partnership unique is that it is strategic, not transactional. Both are maritime nations, advocates of dialogue and moderation, and believers in stability as a prerequisite for prosperity.
As His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik meets His Majesty King Charles III, the message is clear: Oman-UK ties are not looking back at history – they are looking forward to shared growth. From a friendship forged in history to a partnership built for the future, this state visit marks the beginning of a new chapter that promises prosperity for both peoples.