The UAE is joining the Sultanate of Oman today in celebrating its 54th National Day, an occasion that takes place annually on November 18. This celebration underscores the robust and lasting bond between the two nations, which is founded on profound brotherly connections and a comprehensive strategic partnership.
Flourishing relations
The relationship between the UAE and Oman continues to flourish, bolstered by the support and guidance of their leaders, President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said of Oman.
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Leaders’ congratulations
H.H. Sheikh Mohamed tweeted on X: “On the occasion of Omani National Day, I extend my sincere congratulations to my brother Sultan Haitham bin Tariq and the people of Oman. The UAE and Oman share an enduring partnership and aspirations for development, and we look forward to continuing to work together with determination to foster progress and prosperity for our nations and region.”
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, also shared his well-wishes. “We congratulate the brotherly Omani people and my brother Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, may God protect him, on their glorious National Day and the anniversary of their blessed renaissance,” Sheikh Mohammed wrote on X.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, wrote on X: “We congratulate our brothers in the Sultanate of Oman, leadership, government and people, on their 54th National Day and the anniversary of the blessed renaissance march led today by His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, may God protect him. The UAE and Oman are bound by strong fraternal relations, a shared history, and a bright future… We ask God to perpetuate our brotherhood, and to grant its good people success in all that is good, for the glory and honour of their beloved country.”
H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, also shared his congratulations, writing: “The UAE and Oman are linked by solid historical relations that embody the highest meanings of brotherhood and good neighbourliness.”
Dr. Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to the President, said: “A few days ago, I was visiting the sisterly sultanate of Oman and its shining capital, Muscat. With every visit over the years, I follow with admiration and appreciation the extent of progress and development that the sultanate is achieving in various fields. On the occasion of the National Day, I wish Oman, its leadership and people, more prosperity and excellence.”
Annual commemorations
Every year, the UAE commemorates Oman’s National Day with a variety of events, such as illuminating landmarks in the colors of the Omani flag, greeting Omani visitors with flowers and gifts at borders and airports, and hosting festivities in shopping centers and entertainment venues.
Oman vision 2040
Under the leadership of Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, Oman is entering a new phase of development, emphasizing modernization, economic diversification, and sustainable growth, particularly through the initiative known as “Oman Vision 2040.” This ambitious strategy aims to diversify and enhance the national economy, target a sustainable growth rate of 5 percent annually, and increase GDP per capita by as much as 90 percent. It also aspires to establish a high-quality educational framework, create a national system for research and innovation, and develop a labor market that is appealing to Omani citizens.
Strong economic ties
In terms of economic relations, the UAE and Oman maintain strong trade connections. Non-oil trade between the two countries reached AED51 billion last year, up from AED48.7 billion in 2022, marking a growth rate of 5 percent. The UAE stands as Oman’s largest trading partner, being both the top exporter to Oman and the foremost importer from it. The UAE constitutes over 40 percent of Oman’s total imports and about 20 percent of Oman’s exports to international markets.
Bilateral agreements
In April, during Sultan Haitham’s visit to the UAE, the two nations signed agreements and memoranda of understanding valued at AED 129 billion. These agreements focus on sectors such as renewable energy, green minerals, railway connections, and investments in digital infrastructure and technology, facilitated by collaborations between the UAE Ministry of Investment and Oman’s Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion.
Cultural connections
Culturally, the UAE and Oman enjoy a rich heritage in art and literature, with profound connections in traditions, arts, and familial bonds that further reinforce their strong relationship.
