The Sultan’s extensive modernization program has led to unprecedented development and the emergence of an oasis of good governance.

hen His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said ascended to the throne 35 years ago this year, a new era of democratic action was inaugurated in the oil-rich Sultanate. During the British-educated Sultan’s reign, all areas of Omani society have experienced unprecedented development. In 1996, H.M. Sultan Qaboos issued a royal decree putting into effect a basic statute for Oman that the government considers to be a constitution. This law provides for a prime minister, establishes a bicameral legislature and bars ministers from holding interests in companies doing business with the government. It also guarantees basic civil liberties for Omani citizens regardless of gender, making Oman an oasis of good governance in the Arabian Peninsula and throughout the entire Middle East.

The Sultan’s extensive modernization program has opened Oman to the outside world. Member of the World Trade Organization, the country is committed to liberalizing its markets, privatizing its utilities and diversifying its economy to attract foreign investment. The nation’s industrial development plans currently center on gas resources, metal manufacturing, petrochemicals, and international transshipment ports. Enjoying one of the most stable economies in the Middle East, the Sultanate boasts notable oil and gas resources, a huge trade surplus, and low inflation.

As Oman celebrates the 35th anniversary of His Majesty’s rule, often referred to as ‘The Renaissance’, all eyes are on him to see if the leader can continue to build on his successes, having transformed the Sultanate from a feudal state engulfed in civil war to a modern and stable model for Middle Eastern countries. In particular the development of its human resources, or ‘Omanization’ as it is known, through training in various fields, including information technology and business management.

“As long as society succeeds in raising, developing, qualifying, training, enhancing skills and diversifying the experience of its human resources, success is guaranteed in building a modern state with progress in all aspects of life,” said H.M. Sultan Qaboos in a speech to open the annual session of the Council of Oman last October.

“We urge our Omani youths, both male and female, to take advantage of these opportunities and endeavor to settle in an available job in order to gain the experience and skills that will be of mutual benefit and in the public interest,” H.M. Sultan Qaboos added. “This will show that the Omani worker is serious, dedicated, punctual and capable of shouldering responsibilities. Only through this will the Omanization policies and plans bear fruit.”