A blessing observed over centuries

The Sultanate of Oman has always been blessed and renowned worldwide as a state of peace and stability. This is a blessing, which many people and nations have been fighting for ages. Oman has been bestowed this blessing for many reasons, of which kindhearted personality of Omanis comes on top of the list. This is, obviously, reflected in their considerate attitude, warm welcome and hospitality to residents and visitors, mirroring their genuine generosity.

Being commonly known as kindhearted and benevolent humans, Omanis were blessed by the supplicated dua (prayer) of the Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) to Oman and its people when they converted to Islam over 14 centuries ago. The prayer goes, "God mercy be on the people of Al Ghubaira (the people of Oman). They have believed in me although they had not seen me".

Oman was one of the first nations, which voluntarily believed in the Prophet and converted to Islam in ancient ages. They accepted Islam even prior to receiving the Prophet's Messenger or invitation to convert to Islam. The two brother kings of Oman at that time approached the Prophet and acknowledged Islam on behalf of all Omanis who have not even seen the Prophet. In fact, it was a commendable proactive approach that distinguished Omanis from others and thrilled the Prophet.

Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) warmly welcomed the brother kings and prayed for their country and people. Then, he sent His Messenger to teach them Islam and its principles. Praising the people of Oman as an exemplary model for other nations, the Prophet advised one of his Messengers, who was beaten by other people where he was sent to, "If you approached the people of Oman, you would have been neither cursed nor beaten". Such a very pleasing and prestigious remark indeed from the Prophet.

Likewise, the Prophet's dear companions acknowledged the kindheartedness of Omanis. In this regard, Abu Baker al Sidiq said, "People of Oman you; you have entered Islam voluntarily although the Prophet has not come to your land on foot or on horse. You have not opposed him and you have not called for separation or dispersion. May God unite you in benevolence". This was another testament of the benevolence of Omanis, goodwill and tolerance that have been witnessed since early years of Islam.

Undoubtedly, it is the Prophet's heartfelt prayers, which still keeps Oman peaceful and prosperous. It had as well pushed away from Oman all sorts of enemies and evil throughout centuries. Most likely, Omanis are living today is evidence of the Prophet's sacred prayers and the exceptional admiration of his companions too, which blessed Oman and its people. Omanis are so blessed to have the Prophet’s special prayers while no other nation had been granted this honour.

Reflecting on the blessing of being a peaceful country and a spark of peace to the whole world, Oman, for over more than the past five decades, has been playing a significantly remarkable role in promoting peace worldwide. If truth to be told, it has been serving the peace process as high attention is accorded by the Government of Oman both during the reign of the late Sultan Qaboos and His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.

Oman has introduced many local, regional and international peacemaking gestures and conflict-solving initiatives. Thus, this has become a commendably common talk of politicians, governments and individuals alike. Owing to its far-reaching international accomplishments and visionary leadership in this regard, Oman gained credibility and trust at the regional and international levels. Thus, it has been acknowledged as a worldwide peace-concerned destination.

The country has become an epicentre of peace where conflicts and misunderstandings between nations can be resolved. Thanks to the outstanding foreign policy of Oman, which is undoubtedly distinctive from other parts of the region. It served very well the international peace process and bridged political gaps and conflicts between nations.