Sultan Qaboos Bin Said of Oman, the Arab world's longest-serving ruler, passed away late on Friday January 10th 2020.
The sultan deposed his father in a bloodless coup with British support in 1970. At the time the sultan came to power, Oman had only three schools, two hospitals and six kilometres of paved roads.
Qaboos embarked on modernising the country, using its oil wealth. He launched a series of ambitious schemes promoting education, healthcare, trade and road links that have drastically transformed life in the Sultanate.
No cause of death has been confirmed. His cousin Haitham bin Tariq Al Said has been sworn in as his successor.
The Diwan of Royal Court has announced a state of mourning and the halt of official work in the public and private sectors for three days and the flying of flags at half-mast over the forthcoming 40 days. Work will resume on Wednesday January 15th 2020.
As a mark of respect, Kuwait has declared three days of mourning on Saturday, Sunday and Monday for Sultan Qaboos.
