His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik is celebrating his 68th birthday on October 11, 2023.

His Majesty’s assumption of power, in January 2020, came at a critical moment in the sultanate’s history. He took over the reins when large parts of the world, including the Arab region, faced challenges on multiple fronts: political, economic, social and health.

His Majesty the Sultan has navigated Oman through unprecedented times. Through it all, he’s become known as someone who leads with kindness, compassion and strength, while keeping the wellbeing of both Omanis and residents at the heart of his approach. 

His Majesty opted for a path of modernization and change without delay, introducing reforms to fulfil the hopes and aspirations of the Omani people while taking measures to preserve the stability and security of the country.

His Majesty’s leadership throughout Oman’s COVID-19 response has been globally recognized. The tough calls he made to protect the nation’s health saw Oman avoid the devastation seen overseas, and set up our economy to recover faster than almost any other country in the world.

In June this year, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said that the government has made decisive strides in the structural agenda under Oman’s Vision 2040 and continued implementation will help diversify the sultanate’s economy and boost prospects for strong, inclusive, and green non-hydrocarbon growth. The World Bank praised Oman’s outlook and stated that the Sultanate is on its way to becoming the fastest growing economy in GCC.

I said this before and I continue to believe that the extraordinary leadership that His Majesty has provided not just to Oman, but to the world, has helped to navigate many concerns.

Listening attentively to his people and then acting on that advice quickly and with commitment are the signs of a great leader.

“We need to listen to everyone’s opinions and suggestions,” His Majesty said during his meeting with sheikhs from the governorates of North Al Batinah, Al Dhahirah and Al Buraimi in Sohar last year.

At the local level, His Majesty has been closely following the issues of people on a day-to-day basis. 

The world needs leaders like His Majesty who cares about his people. His constant engagement with the world, thoughtfulness, and willingness to hear the perspective of others, in my mind, is a reflection of a true leader.

As the Late Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the former Emir of Kuwait famously said: “Oman is safe in the hands of His Majesty Sultan Haitham.”

Yes indeed, we are blessed to have His Majesty Sultan Haitham, as our leader.

Happy birthday, Your Majesty!

About the author: Nishad Padiyarath is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of The Arabian Stories.