Muscat – Oman in marking the sixth anniversary of the accession of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to the throne, an occasion reflecting a phase of renewal, institutional consolidation and steady national development.
Over the past six years, the sultanate has recorded tangible progress across a range of sectors, including education, healthcare, culture, arts and sports, alongside growing activity in tourism, innovation and the creative industries. This progress has been shaped by a national approach that places citizens at the centre of development while focusing on sustainability and long-term economic resilience in line with Oman Vision 2040.
Muscat Daily spoke with citizens from different fields to reflect on key achievements realised during this phase of the country’s Renewed Renaissance.
Prof Dr Mohammed al Badi, Rector of Arab Open University, Oman
The anniversary reflects continuity and stability supported by a renewed national vision that places education, scientific research and national capabilities at the heart of development. Higher education has witnessed improvements in quality assurance, closer alignment of academic programmes with labour market needs, and increased emphasis on innovation and digital transformation. Open and flexible learning models are playing an important role in expanding access to education and promoting lifelong learning.
Wadha al Balushi, Athlete
The reign of His Majesty Sultan Haitham marks a turning point for Omani sport, with a shift towards a more organised and sustainable system. Clearer institutional support, improved infrastructure and stronger backing for international participation, as well as enhanced support for women athletes, have expanded opportunities and strengthened performance across sporting disciplines.
Turki Ibrahim al Junaibi, Photographer
The accession anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on Oman’s stability and clear future direction. Photography as an important cultural and media tool for documenting people and places and conveying Oman’s image to the world. I hope there’s greater support for Omani photographers and wider international exposure for emerging talent.
Dalila Ali Nasser al Dari, Film director
The current phase has reinforced a development path centred on human potential and creativity. There are growing opportunities to advance Omani cinema as a platform for reflecting national identity and cultural heritage. It is important to develop production infrastructure, support young filmmakers and strengthen links with regional and international festivals.
Ahmed bin Hamad al Kharousi, Veteran blood donor
Royal directives have contributed to improvements in the health sector, including the introduction of mandatory premarital medical screening. Voluntary blood donation campaigns in 2025 attracted more than 1,300 donors across several wilayats, benefiting nearly 4,000 patients and reflecting increased community awareness and humanitarian engagement.
Mohammed al Ajmi, Director of Oman Film Society
Cultural and cinematic achievements during this period reflect sustained leadership support for creativity as a pillar of human development. I am optimistic about further empowerment of Omani cinema through quality production support and stronger regional and international engagement.
Sumaiya bint Saeed al Siyabi, Inventor and researcher
The anniversary reflects a balanced leadership approach guiding Oman confidently towards the future. I look forward to greater empowerment of the innovation sector to help transform ideas into competitive, youth-led projects that support sustainable development.
Khamis bin Rashid al Abri, Hotelier
Tourism has been identified as a key growth sector. Directives place emphasis on economic diversification with tourism positioned as a promising contributor. Oman’s natural, historical and cultural assets provide a strong foundation for developing an integrated tourism industry that creates employment, supports local communities and attracts responsible investment, particularly in eco, mountain and cultural tourism.
