< Previous30 100 Most Inspiring Leaders 2024 Leadership ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_30-41_Sultan Qaboos_13367456.indd 30ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_30-41_Sultan Qaboos_13367456.indd 3028/08/2024 10:4128/08/2024 10:41arabianbusiness.com 31 Leadership We believe that education is the cornerstone of progress and development, and we will spare no effort to promote it and advance it to the highest levels Qaboos bin Said Al Said, Former Sultan of Oman ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_30-41_Sultan Qaboos_13367456.indd 31ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_30-41_Sultan Qaboos_13367456.indd 3128/08/2024 10:4128/08/2024 10:4132 100 Most Inspiring Leaders 2024 Leadership THE VISIONAR Y SUL T A N OF OMAN 32 100 Most Inspiring Leaders — September 2024 WORDS BY KATE-LYNNE WOLMARANS Qaboos bin Said Al Said and his legacy of peace, stability, and progress ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_30-41_Sultan Qaboos_13367456.indd 32ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_30-41_Sultan Qaboos_13367456.indd 3228/08/2024 10:4128/08/2024 10:41arabianbusiness.com33 Leadership I n the histor y of modern Middle East- ern leadership, few figures stand as towering and transformative as Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said of Oman. His reign, which spanned nearly five decades from 23 July 1970 until his passing in 2020, was charac- terised by an extraordinary vision that combined the preservation of Oman’s rich cultural heritage with an inspiring programme of modernisation. As the fifteenth-generation descendant of the founder of the House of Al Said, Qaboos was born into a legacy of lead- ership, yet his ambitions for Oman extended far beyond the continuation of his lineage. His ascension to the throne was not just a change in leader- ship but the dawn of a new era for Oman, an era marked by rapid devel- opment, diplomatic acumen, and a deep, abiding love for his people. Sultan Qaboos inherited a country that was, in many ways, isolated and underdeveloped. When he assumed power in 1970, Oman was a nation struggling under the weight of poverty, with limited infrastructure, scant educa- tion, and a populace largely discon- nected from the outside world. His predecessor and father, Sultan Said bin Taimur, had pursued a policy of isola- tionism, keeping Oman closed off from the modern world. This had left the nation in a state of stagnation, with few roads, schools, or hospitals, and a soci- ety that was still largely tribal and feudal. Recognising the urgent need for change, Qaboos embarked on a mission to bring Oman into the modern era. His vision was comprehensive, encom- passing not just economic development but also social and cultural renewal. Over the course of his reign, he trans- formed Oman from an isolated back- water into a thriving, modern state with a vibrant economy, a robust infrastruc- ture, and a society that balanced respect for tradition with the demands of the moder n world. Here, we look into the life and legacy of Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said, exploring the key milestones of his reign, his deep love for his people, the sources of his inspiration, and the hopes he harboured for Oman’s future. — • — EARLY LIFE AND ASCENSION TO POWER Qaboos bin Said was bor n on 18 November 1940 in Salalah, a city in the southern region of Dhofar. As the only son of Sultan Said bin Taimur and Princess Mazoon Al Mashani, Qaboos was destined for leadership from an early age. His upbringing was charac- terised by a strict and traditional education, designed to prepare him for the responsibilities that awaited him as the future Sultan of Oman. His early education took place in Oman, where he was taught Islamic studies and the history of Oman, instill- arabianbusiness.com33 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_30-41_Sultan Qaboos_13367456.indd 33ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_30-41_Sultan Qaboos_13367456.indd 3328/08/2024 10:4128/08/2024 10:41Leadership 34 100 Most Inspiring Leaders — September 2024 ing in him a deep sense of pride in his nation’s heritage. At the age of sixteen, Qaboos was sent to England to continue his education. He attended Bury Saint Edmunds, a prestigious private school, where he was intro- duced to Western ideas and values, including the principles of governance and the rule of law. Following his schooling, Qaboos entered the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, one of the world’s most respected military training institutions. His time at Sandhurst had a profound impact on him, instilling in him the discipline and strategic thinking that would later define his leadership. After graduating from Sandhurst, Qaboos served in the British Army, where he gained valuable experience in military leadership and international diplomacy. Upon his return to Oman in 1964, Qaboos found a nation that was far removed from the modern world he had experienced in Britain. Qaboos, with his modern education and global perspective, quickly realised that Oman could not continue on its current path. He began to advocate for reform, but his father resisted, fearing that change would undermine his authority. This tension between father and son even- tually led to a bloodless coup in 1970, orchestrated with the support of British advisors. On 23 July 1970, Qaboos assumed the throne, pledg ing to modernise Oman and improve the lives of its people. — • — MODERNISATION AND DEVELOPMENT The transformation of Oman under Sultan Qaboos was nothing short of revolutionary. Upon taking power, he immediately set about dismantling the old order and building a new, modern state. His vision for Oman w a s inspiring, encompassing economic development, social refor m, and cultural preservation. One of Sultan Qaboos’s first acts as ruler was to open Oman to the outside world. He invited foreign investment and expertise, recognising that the country could not develop in isolation. The revenues from Oman’s fledgling oil industr y provided the financial resources needed to fund his plans for development. These funds were chan- nelled into infrastructure projects, including the construction of roads, ports, and airports, which connected the remote regions of Oman and facil- itated trade and commerce. The transfor mation of Muscat, Oman’s capital, is perhaps the most Sultan Qaboos bin Said entered the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst as an officer cadet in 1960 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_30-41_Sultan Qaboos_13367456.indd 34ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_30-41_Sultan Qaboos_13367456.indd 3428/08/2024 10:4228/08/2024 10:42arabianbusiness.com35 Leadership US President Ronald Reagan with Sultan Qaboos bin Said during Hi Majesty’s state visit to the US in 1983 visible testament to Sultan Qaboos’s vision. When he came to power, Muscat was a small, underdeveloped city with limited infrastructure. Under his lead- er ship, it was transfor med into a modern metropolis, with world-class facilities, a vibrant economy, and a population that enjoyed a high stand- ard of living. The development of Muscat was mirrored across the coun- try, with remote regions like Dhofar and Musandam also benefiting from the Sultan’s modernisation programme. Education was a cornerstone of Qaboos’s vision for Oman. Under his rule, the country saw the establishment of a comprehensive education system, with schools and universities being built across the nation. The founding of Sultan Qaboos University in 1986 was a landmark moment in Oman’s educational histor y, providing the country with its first institution of higher lear ning. Sultan Qaboos believed that education was the key to Oman’s future, and he was committed to providing quality education for all Omanis, regardless of gender. This commitment to education extended to both men and women, with women being encouraged to pursue higher education and professional careers. Healthcare also saw dramatic improvements under Sultan Qaboos. In 1970, Oman had only a handful of rudimentary clinics and a few doctors to serve the entire population. By the time of his death in 2020, Oman had a modern healthcare system, with hospi- tals and clinics across the countr y providing quality medical care to all Omanis. The Sultan was personally involved in many public health initia- tives, including the successful eradica- tion of malaria in Oman in 1991, a significant achievement that improved the quality of life for countless Omanis. — • — DIPLOMACY AND FOREIGN POLICY Sultan Qaboos’s approach to foreign policy was defined by pragmatism, neutrality, and a commitment to peace- ful coexistence. Under his leadership, Oman became known for its diplomatic acumen, often serving as a mediator in regional conflicts. This was a reflection of Qaboos’s belief in dialogue over confrontation, a principle that earned Oman respect on the global stage. One of the defining features of Sultan Qaboos’s foreign policy was his commitment to neutrality. In a region often characterised by conflict and rivalry, Oman under Qaboos main- tained friendly relations with all of its neighbours, regardless of their political or ideological differences. This neutral stance allowed Oman to act as a medi- ator in regional disputes, most notably during the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988), where Oman maintained diplomatic relations with both Tehran and Bagh- dad and facilitated dialogue between the two warring parties. Oman’s role as a mediator was also evident during the Gulf War in 1990- 1991. While Oman was a member of the coalition against Iraq, Sultan Qaboos also advocated for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, emphasising the impor- tance of dialogue and diplomacy. This balanced approach to foreign policy allowed Oman to maintain its independ- ence and sovereignty, while also contrib- uting to regional stability. Sultan Qaboos’s foreign policy was also characterised by strong ties with Western powers, particularly the United States and the United Kingdom. His personal connections with the UK, forged during his time at Sandhurst and his service in the British Army, remained strong throughout his reign. These ties were reflected in the close diplomatic and militar y cooperation between Oman and the UK, with Britain becom- ing one of Oman's closest allies. The relationship with the United States was also significant, particularly in the context of the strategic Strait of ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_30-41_Sultan Qaboos_13367456.indd 35ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_30-41_Sultan Qaboos_13367456.indd 3528/08/2024 10:4228/08/2024 10:42Leadership 36 100 Most Inspiring Leaders — September 2024 Inaugurated in 2011, the landmark Royal Opera House Muscat is the premier arts and culture venue in Oman Hormuz, through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply passes. Oman under Qaboos played a key role in ensuring the security of this vital waterway, and the country was a key partner in the US’s efforts to maintain stability in the region. The Sultan’s ability to navigate the complex web of Middle Eastern politics, while main- taining Oman’s sovereignty and stabil- ity, was a testament to his diplomatic skill and strategic vision. — • — CULTURAL RENAISSANCE While Sultan Qaboos was focused on modernisation, he was also deeply committed to preserving Oman’s rich cultural heritage. He understood that a nation’s identity is rooted in its history and traditions, and he took g reat care to ensure that Oman’s cultural legacy was not lost in the rush towards modernity. Under his leadership, Oman experi- enced a cultural renaissance, with tradi- tional arts and crafts being revived and promoted. The government provided support for artisans and craftsmen, ensur- ing that traditional skills were passed on to future generations. The annual Muscat Festival, established under Sultan Qaboos’s patronage, became a showcase for Omani culture, featuring traditional music, dance, and crafts, and attracting visitors from around the world. ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_30-41_Sultan Qaboos_13367456.indd 36ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_30-41_Sultan Qaboos_13367456.indd 3628/08/2024 10:4228/08/2024 10:42arabianbusiness.com37 Leadership Sultan Qaboos also initiated the restoration of historic forts and castles across Oman, recognising their impor- tance as symbols of the nation’s past. These efforts were complemented by the creation of museums and cultural institutions, including the National Museum of Oman and the Royal Opera House Muscat, which opened in 2011. The Royal Opera House, in particular, was a symbol of Oman’s cultural sophistication and its ability to balance tradition with modernity. The Sultan’s love for his people and their traditions was evident in his inter- actions with them. Sultan Qaboos was known for his “meet the people” tours, where he would travel across the coun- try, engaging directly with citizens, listening to their concerns, and ensur- ing that their voices were heard. These tours reinforced the bond between the ruler and his people, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. — • — QABOOS’S VISION FOR OMAN’S FUTURE Sultan Qaboos’s vision for Oman was not limited to the present; he was deeply concerned with the future of his nation. He recognised the challenges that Oman would face in the years to come, particularly the need to diversify the economy away from oil. Under his leadership, the government launched initiatives aimed at developing alterna- tive sectors such as tourism, agricul- ture, and fisheries, laying the ground- work for a post-oil economy. Environmental sustainability was another area of focus for Sultan Qaboos. He was intensely aware of the environ- mental challenges facing Oman, from water scarcity to desertification, and he implemented policies aimed at conserv- ing natural resources and protecting the environment. These measures included efforts to conserve water, protect marine life, and preser ve Oman’s unique ecosystems, ensuring that the country’s natural heritage would be preserved for future generations. Sultan Qaboos’s vision for the future also extended to regional stabil- ity and cooperation. He was a propo- nent of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and believed in the importance of collective security and economic integration among the Gulf states. His advocacy for peaceful coexistence and dialogue continues to influence Oman’s foreign policy long after his death. — • — THE LEGACY OF A BELOVED LEADER The death of Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said in January 2020 marked the end of an era for Oman and the wider Arab world. His passing was met with an outpouring of grief, not only in Oman but across the region and beyond. Lead- ers from around the world paid tribute to his wisdom, his statesmanship, and his contributions to peace and stability. Sultan Qaboos left behind a legacy of transformation, modernisation, and cultural preservation. He was a leader who understood the importance of balancing tradition with progress, and his vision for Oman continues to shape the nation’s path forward. His succes- sor, Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, has pledged to continue Qaboos's policies, ensuring that the foundations laid by his predecessor will endure. Sultan Qaboos’s legacy is also evident in the affection and respect he commanded from his people. He was not just a ruler, but a father figure to the nation, someone who genuinely cared for the welfare of his citizens. This deep bond between the Sultan and his people was reflected in the widespread mourn- ing that followed his death, as Omanis from all walks of life paid their respects to the man who had dedicated his life to the service of his country. Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said was a visionary leader whose nearly fifty- year reign transformed Oman from an isolated and underdeveloped nation into a modern, prosperous state. His leadership was characterised by a deep love for his people, a commitment to modernisation, and a profound respect for Oman’s cultural heritage. His vision for Oman was one of peace, stability, and progress, not just for his nation, but for the entire region. The Royal Opera House aims to serve as a centre of excellence in global cultural engagement ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_30-41_Sultan Qaboos_13367456.indd 37ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_30-41_Sultan Qaboos_13367456.indd 3728/08/2024 10:4228/08/2024 10:4238 100 Most Inspiring Leaders 2024 Leadership KEY MILESTONES UNDER SULTAN QABOOS’S RULE 38 100 Most Inspiring Leaders — September 2024 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_30-41_Sultan Qaboos_13367456.indd 38ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_30-41_Sultan Qaboos_13367456.indd 3828/08/2024 10:4228/08/2024 10:42arabianbusiness.com 39 Leadership 1971 Entry into the United Nations 1975 The Dhofar Rebellion 1981 Formation of the Gulf Cooperation Council 1986 Establishment of Sultan Qaboos University Oman’s accession to the United Nations was a symbolic yet substantive affirmation of Qaboos’s intent to integrate Oman into the international order. This marked the begin- ning of Oman’s active engagement with the world, a sharp departure from its previous isolation. The pacification of the Dhofar Rebellion, a conflict rooted in both regional and ideological tensions, was a significant achievement. It not only consolidated Qaboos’s rule but also highlighted his capacity to bring stability to a frac- tured nation. Oman’s role as a founding member of the GCC was indic- ative of Qaboos’s vision for regional cooperation and collective security. His participation in this alliance was both a strategic and diplomatic manoeuvre, aimed at fostering stability in the Gulf. The founding of Oman’s first university represented a key moment in the nation’s development. Sultan Qaboos University became a beacon of learning and a testament to Qaboos’s commitment to education as the cornerstone of national progress. arabianbusiness.com 39 ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_30-41_Sultan Qaboos_13367456.indd 39ABE_100 Most Inspiring Leaders Supplement September 2024_30-41_Sultan Qaboos_13367456.indd 3928/08/2024 10:4228/08/2024 10:42Next >