In a presentation at the Ghedex, the Ministry of Higher Education, said that the number of overseas academic scholarships per year stands at 1,643. The scholarships for studies within Oman are at 28,000. As a result, over 29,643 Omani students benefit from government scholarships for higher education each academic year.

Financial allocations towards local and overseas scholarships have been significantly augmented since 2011 on the Royal directives of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos.

The ministry conducted an External Scholarships presentation at Ghedex for delegates from overseas higher education institutions (HEIs). “Although not based on an exact science, as the economy is constantly evolving, scholarships are supposed to be effective instruments in guiding students into occupations that are in the national interest. We aim to offer scholarships for studying in areas which have been identified as national priorities and which have potential for economic growth”, said Bregje Van Baaren, Researcher and Liaison, DG for Scholarships.
Omani school students, who are currently in grade 12/year 13, may now competitively apply to the Higher Education Admission Centre (HEAC) for a seat, internal scholarship, external scholarship and/or grant, provided they meet at least part of the criteria (right combination of relevant subjects). They can register and apply for at least 12 and maximum 40 programmes until June 1 and make changes in their personal preferences in July after their final exam results were announced.
Candidates will eventually be competitively selected by an unbiased, state-of-the-art electronic system based on their academic performance.
External scholarship recipients can enroll in undergraduate degree programmes related to broader subject areas including Built Environment, Business, Finance, Computer Science/ IT, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Education, Health, Media and Communication, Natural and Physical Sciences, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Process and Resource Engineering, Social Sciences, Transport and Logistics, Interior Design, Museum Studies and Tourism and Hospitality.
The eligibility criteria for the same has been researched and drafted by a team from the ministry and is partly based on entry requirements set by the recommended and selected overseas HEIs. “While students are competitively applying through the unbiased electronic system managed by HEAC, the ministries of education and higher education encourage students to focus on whether a particular programme suits them rather than primarily focusing on the preferred study destination.
“Staff members from the National Career Guidance Centre (MoE) and the DG of Scholarships (MoHE) have teamed up, and are participating in the Ghedex to provide prospective applicants with guidance to help them make more well-informed decisions while competitively applying for a seat, scholarship and/or a grant – we aim to explain to the students that their well-informed decision is their future”, said Bregje. “The most popular areas of study among applicants are traditionally engineering, business and management and information technology, although popularity partly depends on the number of allocated seats and whether applicants meet the eligibility criteria.
For example, medicine is a popular area of study as well but not all applicants meet the criteria”, said Bregje.
The external scholarships are divided into Group A and Group B, where Group A comprises of 143 external scholarships for relatively high achieving, well-rounded students and Group B comprises of 1,500 eternal scholarships for students who at least have satisfactory up to excellent school grades. “Regarding the options available for Group A students, majority of programmes are offered in New Zealand, the US, the UK and Australia. The HEIs need to be both recognised and recommended by ministry. As for the options for Group B students, programmes are offered in countries such as the US, the UK, Australia, Malta, Ireland, the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Malaysia, Poland and Brunei.
“For Group B, the overseas representatives in cooperation with the ministry selects suitable higher education institutions based on whether they meet all our criteria and standards” said Bregje. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) feels it is important for students to experience a part of their education in an international surrounding.
DAAD is offering information about opportunities for studying in Germany” informs Andrea Cornelissen, DAAD representative in Oman. Education Zone (EZone), a leader in the provision of higher education to all types of students, says “We care about students and place them in the best schools around the world. This year EZone is introducing USA education and high schools from around the world, as well as offering discount on admission fees at Ghedex” says Suad Alhalwachi, Director, Education Zone.
The Global Higher Education Exhibition closes today.

Oman Rail has floated tenders for pre-qualification of engineering, procurement and construction contracting services for its rail projects from interested companies.

The purpose of this contract is to assign the scope of earth works, stations, depots, yards, facilities and utilities under contractor for conventional civil infrastructure work project (PQ-012-15).

For contractors interested in complex civil infrastructure works (PQ-016-15), the scope covers earth works, tunnels, bridges, structure track works and stations in addition to depots, yards, facilities and utilities.

The participating fee is OMR300 and the applications have to be submitted by June 1, 2015.

“All previously qualified bidders are automatically qualified only for the conventional segment (PQ-012-15) provided they maintain the same JV structure,” said the announcement.

Last week, Abdul Rahman Al  Hatmi, chief executive officer of Oman Rail, said that they were considering the financial bids of the companies that technically qualified for the first segment of Oman Rail project, which will connect the wilayats of Al Buraimi and Sohar.

In a statement, he said that Oman Rail Company opened bids for the five companies that have technically qualified from among 18 bidders.

He hoped that segment 1 of the project (170 kilometres from Sohar to Al Buraimi, including a number of tunnels and bridges) would be awarded and implemented by the end of this year.

As Oman celebrates its 45th Renaissance Day today His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said is being hailed as an international peacemaker for his role in the recent nuclear deal between Iran and the West.

In the years since the Blessed Renaissance, Oman has established itself as a neutral, mediating nation in the Middle East for which it has received much appreciation and praise. His Majesty the Sultan came to power in 1970 with a foreign policy goal of having good relations with all of Oman’s neighbours and maintaining a neutral approach in other countries’ affairs.

Following the Camp David Accords signed in 1978 between Egypt and Israel, Oman was one of just three Arab states that didn’t cut ties with Egypt, and during the Iran-Iraq War it maintained diplomatic relations with both sides.

Now Oman’s neutral position has proven to be valuable yet again, thanks to its ability to bring the US and Iran to the negotiating table for the recently agreed nuclear framework agreement.

US Secretary of State John Kerry spoke highly of the role Oman had in the talks. In Lausanne, Switzerland on April 2 he said Oman “not only hosted a number of important meetings, but also played a critical role in getting these talks off the ground in the first place.”

In an article in International Policy Digest, Shohini Gupta, from the Gulf Institute, described Oman’s role as “instrumental.”

Oman had the trust of both the US and Iran since it had helped mediate for them before, such as in September 2011 when it facilitated the return of three American hikers who had been jailed in Iran on espionage charges.

Following this success, His Majesty offered Oman as a place for secret talks between the Americans and Iranians.

“Oman’s unique neutral position enabled HM to mediate between the US and Iran, the motivations for which mainly regard regional security…Oman was instrumental in the easing of relations between the US and Iran, and was therefore incredibly important to the success of the deal… Oman has proven that it has greater credibility in working cooperatively with the United States to further mutual policy goals in a productive manner,” Gupta wrote.

Speaking in Vienna on July 14, the day the historic agreement was signed, Kerry included Oman among the countries he thanked for hosting the talks. Talks were held in Muscat in 2013 and 2014. He also thanked His Majesty for the role he played.

“And I am particularly grateful – we are particularly grateful, all of us, to the Sultan of Oman, for his very personal engagement and support for the possibility of an agreement. He and his government were there to help every step of the way,” Kerry said.

On July 17 Vice President Joe Biden spoke with His Majesty to express his and President Obama’s gratitude for the Sultan’s support of the nuclear negotiations with Iran that resulted in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.

The vice-president also thanked HM for Oman’s role in helping to advance a political settlement in Yemen. Both leaders pledged continued close cooperation between the United States and Oman to advance regional peace and stability.

That same day His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said spoke with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, who appreciated Oman’s constructive role aimed at resolving regional crises and said Oman and Iran can continue to work together to end ongoing conflicts.

Rouhani even mentioned the call on his Twitter feed: “In call w/ Sultan Qaboos– who welcomed #IranDeal & wished blessed #Eid– thanked Oman for const role& emphasized coop to end regional crisis.”

Minister Responsible for Foreign Affairs Yousuf bin Alawi, spoke about the agreement and Oman’s role in an interview on July 14 on Oman TV.

“The entire process from the first phase to the end was centred on one foundation, which was the Sultanate’s ability, [with] its distinguished relations with all parties…to establish trust between the parties. Without trust, it wouldn’t have been possible to reach this agreement. The role of the Sultanate was, at the top levels, to build trust between the leaderships of these countries and Iran,” bin Alawi said..

Here in Muscat ambassadors from countries involved in the talks praised Oman’s role, too. Iranian Ambassador Ali Akbar Sibeveih described Oman’s role bringing Iran and the P5+1 to the negotiating table was “crucial.”

“The fact that these negotiations have come to fruition after so many years is because of the presence of His Majesty who has always been seeking peace, justice and truth,” said Sibeveih.

France’s ambassador to Oman, Roland Dubertrand, also had high praise for Oman. “The French authorities and the French government want to pay tribute to the role of Oman for reaching the very positive agreement concluded between the P5+1 and Iran today,” he said on July 14 at his country’s national day celebrations, which coincided with the historic nuclear agreement.

In the past few years Oman has become a key player in region, helping bridge divides between Iran and the west. This is important to France, which a main participant in the nuclear talks with Iran. Oman also has a valuable job to play regarding Yemen, the ambassador explained.

“Oman has a special role for holding mediation for rapprochement for the countries having problems,” said Dubertrand.

Oman’s unique position and foreign policy is valued regionally and internationally, and has been one of the strengths of the Blessed Renaissance.

His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has laid the foundation for ‘Oman Across Ages Museum’ in the Wilayat of Manah in the Governorate of A’Dakhiliyah.

His Majesty was welcomed by the Main Committee Members of the project and shown pictures of museum design and contents, including the project model.
His Majesty was accompanied by some ministers and army commanders. The idea of the project has taken shape in accordance with the wise vision of His Majesty, who wisely decided to build a museum showcasing the history of Oman through ages in both sound and picture. It will shed light on the miraculous achievements accomplished after 1970.

The museum will represent Oman’s divine nature and its geographic diversity in an interactive way using modern narrative description techniques.

A press statement issued on the project ‘Oman Across Ages Museum,’ is as follows:

“His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has placed the cornerstone for “Oman Across Ages Museum” which imitates the history of Oman throughout ancient ages in both sound and picture. It will shed light on the miraculous achievements accomplished after 1970. The museum will represent Oman’s divine nature and its geographic diversity in an interactive way using modern narrative description techniques.

The project will be established in the Wilayat of Manah in the Governorate of A’Dakhiliyah. According to His Majesty the Sultan’s instructions, the Royal Court Affairs, represented by The Royal Estate, will supervise the construction and carry out the project. With new visual techniques, the project will present the Renaissance achievements to the new generation in a personified way.

The main goals of the museum are:

To evoke the past, to feel the present and to anticipate the future.

To acquaint Oman youth with achievements, growth, developments and success occurring during the blessed Renaissance era; bearing in mind the rich history across ages.

To create a new experience and an ingenious atmosphere that helps to find knowledge with a full interaction between visitors and narrative description.

To provide a proper atmosphere for research and museum study.

To organise programmes and regular and variable events with new creative and comprehensive ways.

To anticipate the future vision based on our glorious present.

While executing the narrative description; the project will take into account the philosophy of employing the chrono-thematic representation based on modern specifications and principals applied in museum science. This will help to create refined and amusing experience for all level of guests.

In accordance with the project vision; the museum will shed a light on all political, ideological, social, industrial aspects of life in Oman including the international relations since ages until the Renaissance era. These aspects will be well thought-out from a socio-historic perspective aims to make visitors connected with the Omani famous leaders and figures across ages by using digital medium and materialistic exhibits. Delighted to witness this remarkable event, the High Committee Members asked Allah Almighty to grant His Majesty health, prosperity and success; and to protect him with His care all over the years.

Oman today celebrates the 45th anniversary of the glorious Renaissance of July 23, which has resulted in an impressive leap forward in the life of the Sultanate and its people.

The occasion signals a new era as Oman has achieved progress and prosperity under the wise leadership of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said.

Over the past 45 years, His Majesty has been very keen on making each Omani a contributor to the development, as well as its main aim and goal.

Therefore, Oman’s celebration of the blessed Renaissance is a celebration of the contribution of each Omani to the achievements made over the past period and the success in building a modern nation that has made positive contributions at the Gulf, Arab and world levels. The Omani man now enjoys respect in different parts of the world.

The uniqueness of the Omani leadership is that it has leveraged the potential of the Omanis and steered them towards building a modern Oman.

These achievements would not have been possible without proper planning and a leadership that dedicated its time and effort to the progress of this nation. The Omani leadership has been keen on ensuring equality among all Omanis and the rule of law. This was reflected in the Basic Law of the State promulgated on November 6, 1996, and its amendments.

The law highlighted the relationships among the different organisations, as well as their rights, responsibilities, duties and obligations. It also ensured harmony and integration between the Council of Ministers and the Council of Oman, which includes the State Council and Majlis Al Shura, in addition to the independence of judiciary. It also ensured going on the right track through the overview conducted by the State Financial and Administrative Audit Institution (SFAAI), the Public Authority for Consumer Protection (PACP), besides other audit institutions.

The Omani march towards more socio-economic progress is still going on in all fields to make Oman, as it has been always, an oasis for peace and security, thanks to the wise policies of His Majesty over the past 45 years. This is very clear from the events witnessed by the region, which pose many current and future challenges.

The five year plans, from the first one (1976-1980) to the eighth one (2011-2015) managed to complete the infrastructure in different areas and in different parts of the Sultanate. This is manifested in the high quality road network, water, electricity, health and education, as well as higher education services.

The Omani Government, as guided by His Majesty, takes initiatives to develop the qualified and specialised human resources. It also develops curricula at the various schools and higher education institutions. The Education Council, the Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) and other institutions play an important role in this field. Work is also underway to complete the establishment of the world class Oman University.

Despite the decline in oil prices since last year, His Majesty gave instructions to maintain the levels of services provided to citizens especially in the sectors of health, education and social security without any prejudice to the work at the major tourism, road, port and airport projects, as well as major projects in the Special Economic Zone in Duqm (SEZD). The road network, railway and airport projects have made the Sultanate a logistical hub with great potential in the years to come.

After developing the main outlines of the 9th five-year plan (2016-2020), the Omani Government, represented by the Supreme Council for Planning (SCP) and the Main Committee for Oman Vision 2040, as well as other respective agencies, have already started preparing for the Vision 2040 as per the Royal Directives of His Majesty.

The symposium on the follow up of the progress made in implementing the recommendations of the Seih Al Shamikhat Symposium has issued a number of decisions that promote the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and ensure getting the stipulated percentage of the public tenders and purchases.

Despite the decline in oil prices in the world markets, the Central Bank of Oman (CBO) issued a report about the financial stability in 2015. The report shows positive indicators about the growth of gross domestic product (GDP) in the Sultanate, which stood at 4.62 per cent in 2015, as compared to 2.95 per cent in 2014.

The CBO affirmed that the macro-economics of the Sultanate are comfortable especially with the continuation in the diversification of the sources of income, the low inflation rate, the good reserves of foreign currency and the stability of the macro-economic system of the Sultanate.

The Oman Housing Bank (OHB) raised its capital from OMR30 million to OMR100 million in a bid to ensure quick response to the applications for loans submitted to it. Moreover, with effect from July 1, 2015, the prices of 180 medicines were reduced in private sector pharmacies. This initiative was aimed at enhancing the health services and providing drugs free of cost at the public health institutions whether to Omanis or expatriates working at the administrative apparatus of the state.

To ensure good communication between the Council of Ministers and the Omani citizens about issues of interest for them, the Council issues statements regularly about the major issues it has discussed.

The statement by the Council of Ministers about the issues discussed in mid-June highlighted the development of the administrative system, conversion to e-government and constructive cooperation between the Council of Ministers and the Council of Oman. It also delegated the Supreme Council of Planning (SCP) with the task of revising the national strategy of the logistic sector in light of the vision for the Omani economy.

In April 2015, the Sultanate came second at the Arab level and 22nd at the world level, from among 158 countries covered by the third report about happiness in the world in 2015. The Sultanate was also ranked seventh at the world level in life quality indicator in 2015. These rankings are the fruits of the continuous efforts made to improve the standard of living of all Omanis and achieve further progress and prosperity.

The Ministry of Interior also continues its efforts to complete preparations for the Majlis Al Shura’s 8th term elections (2016-2019), which will conducted in October 2015. The registration period has been extended from July 2 to July 30, 2015, to ensure that more Omanis register and cast their votes. The final list of candidates for the Majlis Al Shura election has been also announced.

As for foreign policy, His Majesty affirmed the importance of international efforts to bring security, stability and peace to the region, as this will serve the common interest of all peoples.

The Sultanate has always affirmed it is against the different forms of violence and terrorism. It also stressed the need to ensure stability and security and reach peaceful solutions for the problems depending on good neighbourly relations, mutual respect and principles of co-operation.

It is thus not strange that the Sultanate has been a meeting point and has become the place of trust of all regional and international parties, thanks to the frank, true, credible policies and sincere desire to promote peace.

The Sultanate is constantly endeavouring to approximate viewpoints and reach reconciliations among disputing parties to achieve peace, security and welfare for countries of the region.

Both nationals and residents are in an upbeat mood to celebrate the 45th National Day, as the presence of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said in the country this time is the cause of the biggest joy for them.

Streets and buildings in Oman have been decked up with national flags and decorative lights to mark the occasion. While, retail giants have started promotional sales, hotels and airlines have also come up with special offers to join hands in the National Day festivities.

People from different walks of life who have geared up for the National Day celebrations, said that despite the oil price fall, the mood is positive due to the presence of the visionary leader His Majesty the Sultan.

“This is a special National Day for us. It was for the first time in the last 44 years, His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said was not present physically in the country. This time he is with us and in good health. We are excited to see him in good health. That itself makes the 45th National Day a special one for everyone in Oman,” Mohammed Salim Al Busaidi, a Majlis Al Shura member, told the Times of Oman (TOO).

“National Day celebrations are a time to remember and recognise what we have achieved during the past 45 years. We have to think about how we can contribute more for the progress of our country, while we face challenges on the economic front,” Al Busaidi added.

A top financial expert in Muscat said that despite the oil price dip, the market is confident as His Majesty is back in good health.

“His Majesty’s presence itself instils confidence in everyone. His Majesty’s governance has helped Oman weather all turbulences in the past, especially the one in 2008. Now, when globally, the economy is presenting a gloomy picture, we are sure His Majesty will be able to keep the country safe from troubles. That itself makes the National Day unique and the economy in an upbeat mood,” N Gurumurthy, a Muscat-based financial expert and an official at the Central Bank of Oman (CBO), said

Meanwhile, merchants in Muttrah Souq, Oman’s traditional Arab market in the Muttrah Corniche in Muscat, said sales were at their peak.

“This National Day is a special one for us. We have our His Majesty back in good health. Both nationals and expatriates are in an elated mood to celebrate the 45th National Day.

Shops are stocked with National Day mementos. Sales are its peak,” Hussain Juma Al Balushi, representative of the merchants in Muttrah Souq, told TOO.

Ashraf PP, who exclusively sells National Day mementos, such as flags and pin on buttons at his shop in Muttrah Souq, also echoed the same opinion.

“Wholesale shops are having a good time. Items were brought in from China and Dubai weeks ago itself. Some of the wholesale stores are having sales ranging between OMR40,000 and OMR50,000 daily,” Ashraf stated.

Meanwhile, officials from retail giant Lulu said they are expecting a good sale during the coming days even as market is gloomy due to the slump in oil prices.

“We already have many offers in place. From Sunday onwards, we will start National Day promotions. Last year, we experienced an increase of sales ranging between 20 and 25 per cent during the National Day celebrations. This time also we expect the same,” Raison Francis, assistant manager in the Marketing and Promotions Department at Lulu, said.

A Muscat-based financial analyst also said the retail market is sensing the pulse.

“The market has become active over the past two weeks with everyone trying to get the best automotive and office decorations. Many hotels and shopping malls are organizing special programmes and awarding many gifts and offers to the visitors,” Jose Chacko, chief executive officer (CEO) and general manager at Al Osool Al Arabia, said.

Resorts and hotels in Oman have also come up with offers to celebrate the National Day.

The Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa had already announced 45 days of dedicated offers running till December 24.

Meanwhile, Park Inn Duqm is offering residents and guests an experience in hospitality on the 45th Oman National Day, which is valid until November 30.

Sensing the national mood in Oman on the eve of the country’s 45th National Day, airlines have also announced offers.

While, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has joined the revelry by announcing a very special base fare of just OMR45 for a round trip ticket to Pakistan, Qatar Airways has also announced fares starting from as low as OMR103 to a host of exciting destinations across the globe.

Students at different colleges, including at the Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), also said they are planning to celebrate the 45th National Day.

“This year it is special as His Majesty is with us. We will be holding celebrations on November 18 at SQU. We will make it a remarkable day for everyone,” Ahmed Al Shibli, a law student at SQU, said.

As part of the celebrations, fireworks displays will be held in Amerat, Bausher and Seeb in the Muscat governorate on November 18.

According to a Royal Oman Police official, three major displays will take place in Muscat.

“The locations are Al Amerat Heights, the Bausher Sports Complex and Wadi Al Khoudh in Seeb. It will be held on at around 8:00 pm,” he added.

Oman Sail skipper Leigh McMillan is bracing himself for an emotional farewell when he attempts to seal a record breaking fifth consecutive Extreme Sailing Series win and his third series title in Sydney next week.

After five years at the helm of the Omani Extreme 40 The Wave, Muscat, McMillan is taking a breather from the circuit having twice claimed the championship in 2012 and 2013 to campaign for the America’s Cup with Britain’s challenger Landrover BAR.

As with the rest of the Extreme Sailing Series community, he is also saying his last goodbyes to the Extreme 40 which is being replaced by foiling GC32s for 2016.

The Extreme 40 has played a massive part in raising the profile of the sport, McMillan said, and has given a large number of sailors an opportunity to take their careers to the next level.

“It is the end of an era,” said McMillan who will join Sir Ben Ainslie’s squad at Landrover BAR in the New Year.

“These boats have been incredible – OC Sport has done an amazing job in promoting the sport and creating a circuit which has become the longest standing professional racing circuit that has ever existed so we are expecting the finale in Sydney to be emotional.

“We are really looking forward to this last Act and I am focused on getting a fifth event win in a row and a third series win – we will be the first to do it and that will make me extremely proud. I’m really excited about what we have achieved and with this being the last ever event in the Extreme 40 and my last event with The Wave, Muscat and Oman Sail team for now, it is hugely important that we go out in style.

“Sydney is a terrific but tricky venue and I’m sure we will get a bit of everything out there in the harbour. We have had a great midseason and there is every chance we can complete the year with a win. But there is a lot that can go wrong.

“We need to be vigilant with the boat because we saw some major gear failure in Istanbul – it’s things like that that can come back and bite you. Hopefully the boat will make it to the end of the event and we will perform well on it.”

Since the win in Istanbul, crew member and double Olympic gold medallist Sarah Ayton has been named ISAF Rolex World Sailor of the Year for 2015, for her work as tactician on The Wave, Muscat.

“It was a lovely cherry on the cake for her and all of us and everyone at Oman Sail is thrilled,” McMillan said.

“It was a long time coming because she is an incredibly talented sailor and fully deserves to be recognized for her skills. People who have watched her at work on The Wave, Muscat are fully aware of just how good she is!”

Ayton will once again team up with Pete Greenhalgh, Nasser Al Mashari and Ed Smyth to roll out a result to cap off a brilliant year for the Omani team.

“We have had a really good year and to say goodbye to Leigh in Sydney with another championship win would be a great way to call time on an incredible era for all of us and would be a great moment of pride for our sponsor The Wave, Muscat and the Sultanate of Oman,” said Al Mashari. “But we all know that there is a lot of racing ahead, so for the moment, we are focused on the job we have to do and hope for a good outcome.”

The Wave, Muscat has an 11-point lead at the top of the 2015 Extreme Sailing Series leaderboard going into Act 8. Their stable mates and rivals Oman Air are determined to take up where they left off in Istanbul and earn a place on the podium.

“We had our best result of the year in Istanbul when we came second so we really want to win this one in Sydney and it is not beyond the bounds of possibility,” said skipper Stevie Morrison, who despite his years representing Britain in the 49er Olympic class, has never raced on Sydney Harbour.

“The Wave, Muscat only need an average result – they have done a lot of winning this year including Sarah’s fantastic award – so that might give us an opportunity to advance up the leaderboard!”

Oman Sail will have a strong presence at the Extreme Sailing Series in Sydney with their two distinctive Extreme 40 boats out on the water and the Sultanate of Oman’s ‘Oman Sail Pavilion’ in the Botanical Gardens and alongside it, a hospitality area, the ‘Oman Chalet’.

The pavilion will host a mix of business and social functions, including a presentation on Oman as a sports tourism and investment destination and provide an opportunity for supporters to meet the Oman Sail stars and get their autographs.

At the Chalet, Oman’s Ministry of Tourism will host around 20 guests each day while sponsors Oman Air and The Wave, Muscat have committed to a range of activities to ensure Australian crowds leave the Race Village at Farm Cove with little doubt of Oman’s allure as a holiday destination.

The racecourse area will be set on Farm Cove, in front of the iconic Sydney Opera House and thousands of shoreside spectators are expected to turn out to watch the action at the free-to-enter public race village at Mrs Macquaries Point.

The Sultanate has ranked 16th among the fastest growing tourism destinations in the world, according to the United Nations World Tourism Organization list.

The Sultanate was the only GCC and Arab country to appear in the list. Thanks to the Sultanate’s richness in cultural and archaeological tourist attractions, as well as the services offered to tourists. The number of tourists visiting the Sultanate increased from 891,000 in 2005 to 1.78 million visitors in 2015, a growth by 17 per cent compared to 2014 figure. As per the monthly bulletin issued by the National Centre for Statistics and Information, the number of 3-5 star hotel guests stood at 964,956 by the end of October 2015.

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon praised the Sultanate’s efforts in promoting peace and stability in the region and solving the existing crises by peaceful means.

He commended the Royal efforts of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said in this regard, as well as His Majesty the Sultan’s belief in dialogue as a means for settling disputes and conflicts among countries as this would save the world woes of armed conflicts and wars.

He also thanked His Majesty the Sultan and the Sultanate for hosting the negotiations between Iran and 5+1 Group, as well as its prominent role in solving the Iranian nuclear file and releasing hostages in a number of countries.

He said it has been proved that Oman’s visions and stances towards several issues have been based on careful study of such issues and the best way to address them. He also touched on Oman’s role towards documenting the historic heritage, in collaboration with a number of countries.

Minister Responsible for Foreign Affairs Yousuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah received the UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in his office on Monday. The leaders reviewed cooperation between Oman and the UN and means of enhancing them.

When questioned about the main points of the meeting with Alawi, the UN Secretary-General said: “I am here to express my sincere thanks to the government and people of Oman for their support and contribution in the international and regional peace, security, development and human rights.

He added: “Oman has been providing a very valuable venue for the UN Special Envoy and development agencies, engaged in peace mediation, as in the case of Special Envoy to Yemen Ismael Weld Al Sheikh Ahmed to facilitate peace talks in Yemen.

“We also hope to strengthen our partnership in implementing the sustainable development goals and climate change in the future with the UN.”

He concluded: “We are very much happy, and through this visit, I hope to be strengthen the partnership in the future”.

The meeting was attended from the Omani side by Dr. Ali bin Ahmed Al Isa’ee, Acting Undersecretary of the Foreign Ministry for Diplomatic affairs and officials in the Foreign Ministry. Sayyid Badr bin Saud bin Harib Al Busaidi, Minister Responsible for Defence Affairs also met Ban Ki-moon. Sayyid Badr wished the guest a successful visit to Oman. The two sides discussed matters of common concern.