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Royal Families · Oman
The Al Said family has led Oman since 1744, one of the oldest ruling houses in Arabia; Oman's royal family built a maritime empire and a modern nation, and their legacy is everywhere on a luxury Oman vacation.
At a glance
Imam Ahmad bin Said
The dynasty takes its name from Imam Ahmad bin Said Al Busaidi, who united Oman in 1744. Today the reigning branch is known as the Al Said. Since a 2025 decree, Oman's National Day is celebrated on 20 November, recalling the founding of the state under Imam Ahmad. The wider story is told in Oman's history and culture.
Maritime empire
Sayyid Said bin Sultan, who ruled from 1806 to 1856, made Oman a sea power whose influence reached from the Gulf to the coast of East Africa, with a second capital on the island of Zanzibar. In 1833 Oman signed a treaty of amity and commerce with the United States, one of the first between America and an Arab state. In 1840 his ship, the Sultanah, sailed into New York harbor, the first Arab envoy to visit the United States.
Sultan Qaboos
Sultan Qaboos bin Said reigned from 1970 to 2020, and his reign is remembered in Oman as the Renaissance. In half a century he led the building of roads, schools, universities, hospitals and a modern state, while carefully protecting Oman's heritage, landscapes and architecture. He was also a lover of classical music: the Royal Opera House Muscat, opened in 2011, is one of the most elegant performance venues in the region. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque welcomes visitors in the mornings.
Sultan Haitham bin Tarik
His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik has reigned since 11 January 2020 and also serves as Prime Minister. Before his accession he was Minister of Heritage and Culture and led the committee that drafted Oman Vision 2040, the national plan that now guides tourism, logistics, green hydrogen and investment.
The Basic Statute of 2021 created the position of Crown Prince for the first time in Oman's modern history. His Highness Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham, the Sultan's eldest son, has held the title since January 2021 and also serves as Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth.
The Sultan is His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik. The Crown Prince is His Highness Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham. Male members of the ruling family carry the title Sayyid and female members Sayyida, rather than Sheikh and Sheikha. Omanis speak of the Sultan with real warmth, and portraits of His Majesty are seen across the country.
Places that reflect the Al Said story on a luxury Oman vacation.
The Sultan's ceremonial palace, framed by the 16th-century Al Jalali and Al Mirani forts; viewed from the gates.
Sultan Qaboos's gift to the arts, with a season of opera, ballet and concerts.
Official site ↗A masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture with one of the world's largest hand-woven carpets; open to visitors in the mornings with modest dress.
The great round tower of the 17th century, at the heart of Oman's interior; an easy drive from Jebel Akhdar.
Start with our luxury Oman vacation guide and our pick of luxury hotels in Muscat, and compare the region's royal houses on royal families of the Middle East.
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