Muscat, Oman – April 24, 2025 — His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of the Emirate of Sharjah, arrived in the Sultanate of Oman today for an official visit aimed at reinforcing the deep-rooted historical, cultural, and diplomatic ties between the UAE and Oman.
Sheikh Sultan was warmly received at the Muscat International Airport by His Highness Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham Al Said, Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth and son of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman, along with a high-level delegation of Omani ministers, diplomats, and dignitaries. The reception featured a ceremonial guard of honor and a performance of the national anthems of both countries, underscoring the significance of the visit.
The visit comes at a time of growing regional cooperation, with both nations increasingly investing in cultural diplomacy, heritage preservation, and sustainable development. The Ruler of Sharjah, known for his deep passion for culture, education, and history, is expected to hold several key meetings with Omani officials, intellectuals, and cultural leaders during his stay.
In a brief statement issued by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau, Sheikh Sultan emphasized the importance of the historic and cultural bonds shared between Sharjah and Oman. “Our connection with Oman is not just diplomatic — it is deeply rooted in centuries of shared history, language, and tradition. This visit is an opportunity to celebrate that relationship and explore new paths for collaboration, particularly in the fields of heritage preservation and education,” he stated.
During his visit, Sheikh Sultan will tour several historical and cultural landmarks in Muscat and other Omani cities. A highlight of the itinerary includes a visit to the National Museum of Oman, where Sheikh Sultan is expected to participate in a special event celebrating Gulf heritage. He is also scheduled to inaugurate a joint cultural exhibition curated by institutions from both Sharjah and Oman, focusing on maritime history and the ancient trade routes that once linked the two regions.
The agenda also includes strategic discussions on future joint initiatives in higher education and publishing — areas of keen interest to the Sharjah ruler, who has established numerous universities, libraries, and academic institutions in the UAE and beyond. Sources indicate that agreements may be signed to foster academic exchange programs and joint research projects between universities in Sharjah and their counterparts in Oman.
Omani officials have welcomed the visit as a testament to the enduring ties between the people of the UAE and Oman. In a statement, Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham praised Sheikh Sultan’s commitment to intellectual and cultural pursuits. “Sharjah has long been a beacon of Arab culture and knowledge, and His Highness Sheikh Sultan has played a transformative role in that vision. We are honored to host him and look forward to deepening our cooperation,” he said.
This visit marks another chapter in the ongoing partnership between the UAE and Oman, following several recent high-level exchanges between leaders of the two nations. The strengthening of ties comes at a time when Gulf states are increasingly looking inward to promote cultural identity, diversify their economies, and foster regional solidarity.
As part of the closing events of his visit, Sheikh Sultan is expected to deliver a public lecture at Sultan Qaboos University on the role of literature and history in shaping national identity. The address is anticipated to draw a large audience of students, scholars, and members of the public, and will be broadcast live across multiple platforms.
His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi’s visit to Oman stands as a reflection of the enduring friendship between two neighboring nations united by shared values, visions, and heritage. With mutual aspirations to preserve the past while innovating for the future, the visit is poised to further cement the role of culture as a cornerstone of regional unity.
