The Sultanate of Oman celebrates its National Day on November 18 of every year. The National Day carries with it celebrations and a programme of events and entertainment with a specified and special focus. Omanis honour this occasion with solemn ceremonies, festive activities, and convivial gatherings.
It is now 54 years of National Day celebrations, during which Omanis pledge allegiance to their country and commit devotion and loyalty to their leader, His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik. The loyalty of Omanis to their wise government is unquestionable.
Every year, Omanis celebrate the desired ends and goals the country has been able to achieve through efforts made by different departments and units. This year, in particular, marks the progress made by the government, under the wise leadership of His Majesty the Sultan, to reduce the public debt, enhance the social protection umbrella, attract investments, and diversify economic revenues.
Omanis are also proud to celebrate their intrinsic values, which they have maintained and supported in the face of social changes taking place rapidly over the last few decades. The indisputable proof of this is that Omanis are of a forbearing nature, along with a society that is free from harshness, sternness, or violence.
Without any question, the words of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) about them are manifested or assumed when he said that if you arrive in Oman and come into the presence of its people for the first time, they would neither treat you with insolence, indignity, or contempt, nor do they harm you or allow any injury to come upon you.
Tolerance is the greatest blessing of every Omani. The people of Oman are known for their kindness, further marked by refined cultural interests and pursuits. Omanis treat everyone, including strangers, with courtesy, respect, and hospitality and refrain from any form of insult or hostility.
What is so important about Omanis is that they do not seek material values but always place emphasis on human values. The unique cultural values Omanis possess are exceptional. The Omani society is often associated with politeness, warmth and acceptance.
With such values and traits, there is no wonder that the country lives in perfect peace and contentment.
The state of enjoying concord with other nations and peoples is a trait and a fundamental characteristic of society and its attributes, which distinguish and identify the Omanis from the rest of the world.
In addition to its internal calmness, Oman, with its unique foreign policy, strives to end hostilities between those who have been at war or in a state of enmity, a matter that has become a core part of its identity. As an essential and inherent quality, Oman’s foreign policy reflects the values, norms, and attributes of Oman. Such values do not occur merely by chance or without intention and calculation; they are deeply rooted in the fabric of Oman’s behaviour, culture and structure.
There is no doubt that Oman in the coming years shall thrive and witness more success and prosperity. The country, under the reign of His Majesty the Sultan, will become stronger and flourish in all aspects.
May Allah watch over Oman with His care and protection and grant the country security and safety.
Musallam Al Maani
The writer is Dean of Al Zahra College for Women
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