On 25 November 2025, Diplomats, dignitaries, and distinguished guests gathered at Kasteel De Wittenburg in Wassenaar, the Netherlands to celebrate Oman’s Glorious National Day, an occasion that honors both the Sultanate’s historic legacy and its evolving international partnerships. The ceremony, hosted by the H.E. Sheikh Dr. Abdullah bin Salim bin Hamad Al Harthi, the Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to The Kingdom of the Netherlands, featured a keynote address underscoring Oman’s rich 281-year history and its growing cooperation with the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

In his remarks, the Ambassador welcomed attendees by emphasizing the deep historical roots of the celebration, which dates back to the founding of the Al Bu Said State in 1744. He noted that the event “embodies the celebration of Oman’s rich history… when the founder Imam Ahmad bin Said Al Busaidi unified the nation’s banner and laid the foundations of the modern Omani state based on sovereignty, unity, and dignity.”

The Ambassador also paid tribute to Oman’s leadership across generations. “This occasion is also an opportunity to honor the Sultans of Oman who have faithfully shouldered their responsibility across generations, preserving the country’s unity and prosperity,” he said.

Reflecting on modern Omani nationhood, he highlighted the transformative era of 1970, “established by the late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, and proudly continued today under the wise leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.”

Oman Reaffirms Diplomatic Principles and Stance on Palestine

During the address, the Ambassador reiterated Oman’s foreign policy pillars of dialogue, balance, and positive neutrality. He emphasized that the Sultanate “has established a firm diplomatic approach grounded in positive neutrality, balance, dialogue, and respect for the Charter of the United Nations and international law.”

He reaffirmed Oman’s unwavering support for Palestinian rights, stating:
“The Sultanate of Oman reaffirms its position in support of the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people to establish their independent state on the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital.”

Calling on the international community to act decisively, he added:
“Oman calls upon the international community to work earnestly toward implementing the two-state solution as the just and only path to achieving comprehensive and lasting peace in the Middle East.”

The Ambassador also stressed Oman’s rejection of violations of state sovereignty and its commitment to de-escalation and civilian protection.

A New Chapter in Omani–Dutch Relations

This year marks a significant milestone in bilateral relations between Oman and the Netherlands, highlighted by the State Visit of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to the Kingdom of the Netherlands in April 2025.

The Ambassador praised the warm reception extended by King Willem-Alexander and Dutch officials, describing it as a reflection of the “longstanding and deeply rooted relations grounded in mutual respect, friendship, and shared values of peace and cooperation.”

He noted that the State Visit “opened a new chapter in the partnership between the two friendly nations, strengthening cooperation across political, economic, cultural, and scientific fields.”

Among the major outcomes of the visit:

• The establishment of the first commercial hydrogen corridor linking Oman and the Netherlands
• The launch of four weekly direct flights operated by Oman’s national carrier
• A new Memorandum of Understanding between SAIL Amsterdam and SAIL Muscat
• Field visits by Omani ministers to strategic economic hubs, including the Ports of Rotterdam and Amsterdam
• Meetings between His Majesty Sultan Haitham and CEOs of leading Dutch companies
• The signing of several agreements and memorandums of understanding to deepen commercial and technological cooperation

These developments signal a rapidly expanding partnership, particularly in energy transition, logistics, and cultural exchange.

The Ambassador concluded by expressing appreciation for the support provided by Dutch authorities. “We extend our sincere thanks for the kind cooperation and support extended to the Embassy by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs… as well as various governmental and private entities,” he said.

He closed the ceremony with warm wishes to all attendees, celebrating the spirit of the National Day and the continued prosperity of Oman.“We wish you all continued success and prosperity. Happy National Day to all.”