Who Is Qaboos bin Said? Age, Biography and Wiki
Qaboos bin Said was born on November 18, 1940, and served as the Sultan of Oman from 1970 until his passing in January 2020. With a reign that lasted nearly five decades, Sultan Qaboos was a pivotal figure in modernization and development in Oman. His leadership style combined pragmatism with a deep respect for Omani traditions. As he transitions from a prominent leader to a historical icon, his legacy continues to influence Oman and the broader Middle East region.
As of 2025, the Sultan is remembered as a visionary who shaped Oman into a harmonious and prosperous nation. His efforts in diplomacy, cultural preservation, and economic development have earned him a revered place in both Omani history and global politics.
| Occupation | Prime Ministers |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 18, 1940 |
| Age | 79 Years |
| Birth Place | Salalah, Muscat and Oman (present day Dhofar Governorate, Oman) |
| Horoscope | Scorpio |
| Country | Oman |
| Date of death | 10 January, 2020 |
| Died Place | Seeb, Muscat Governorate, Oman |
Popularity
Qaboos bin Said's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While exact details about Qaboos bin Said's physical stats are not publicly documented, his commanding presence and charismatic leadership have always been noted. As an important historical figure, he is often remembered for his dignified posture and the respect he commanded.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Qaboos bin Said was known to be a private individual, especially regarding his personal life. He remained unmarried throughout his life, which was quite uncommon for a Sultan, leading to speculation about his relationships. However, he dedicated his life to the service of Oman and chosen family—his people. His decisions were often guided by the responsibilities of leadership rather than personal relationships.
The only son of Said bin Taimur, Sultan of Muscat and Oman, Qaboos was educated in Suffolk, England. After graduating from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, he served briefly in the British Army. He returned to Oman in 1966 and was the subject of considerable restrictions from his father.
In 1970, Qaboos ascended to the Omani throne after overthrowing his father in a coup d'état, with British support. The country was subsequently renamed the Sultanate of Oman.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing, it was estimated that Sultan Qaboos had a substantial net worth, with estimates ranging from $500 million to over $700 million due to his investments in various sectors within Oman and abroad. His wealth came not just from the resources of Oman, but also from investments in tourism, real estate, and other business ventures that contributed to the nation's economy. His long reign also helped to increase the country's wealth significantly.
The 2011 Omani protests were a series of protests in the Persian Gulf country of Oman that occurred as part of the revolutionary wave popularly known as the "Arab Spring". The protesters demanded salary increases, lower living costs, the creation of more jobs and a reduction in corruption.
Protests in Sohar, Oman's fifth-largest city, centered on the Globe Roundabout. The Sultan's responses included the dismissal of a third of the governing cabinet.
Career, Business and Investments
Sultan Qaboos' career began when he assumed power in 1970 after a peaceful coup against his father. His reign was marked by significant reforms in education, health, infrastructure, and the economy. He modernized the country while retaining its cultural heritage, promoting a balanced approach towards development.
Under his leadership, Oman developed a booming tourism sector, especially notable in its push toward sustainable tourism, which played a vital role in enhancing national revenues. His government’s investments in oil and gas sectors further solidified Oman’s position within global markets, while also diversifying its income streams through the establishment of Free Trade Zones.
Qaboos bin Said Al Said (, ; 18 November 1940 – 10 January 2020) was Sultan of Oman from 23 July 1970 until his death in 2020. A fifteenth-generation descendant of the founder of the Al Bu Said dynasty, he was the longest-serving leader in the Middle East and Arab world at the time of his death, having ruled for almost half a century.
Social Network
Qaboos bin Said maintained a relatively low profile on social media during his reign, but his legacy continues to exist in various forms online. Following his passing, many social media pages and platforms continue to celebrate his life and contributions, sharing quotes, images, and historical facts about his rule.
According to CBS News, 19 June 2011, "Several protest leaders have been detained and released in rolling waves of arrests during the Arab Spring, and dissatisfaction with the state of affairs in the country is high.
While disgruntlement amongst the populace is obvious, the extreme dearth of foreign press coverage and lack of general press freedom there leaves it unclear as to whether the protesters want the sultan to leave, or simply want their government to function better.
Beyond the recent protests, there is concern about succession in the country, as there is no heir apparent or any clear legislation on who may be the next Sultan." The Sultan did give token concession to protesters yet detained social media activists.
In August 2014, The Omani writer and human rights defender Mohammed Alfazari, the founder and editor-in-chief of the e-magazine Mowatin "Citizen", disappeared after going to the police station in the Al-Qurum district of Muscat, only to be pardoned some time later.
Education
Sultan Qaboos was educated in Oman and later at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom, where he developed a keen interest in politics and leadership. His education contributed greatly to his approach to governance, combining traditional Omani values with modern strategic thinking. This educational background laid the groundwork for his long-term vision for Oman.
He received his primary and secondary education at Salalah, and was sent to a private educational establishment at Bury St Edmunds in England at age 16. At 20, he entered the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.
After graduating from Sandhurst in September 1962, he joined the British Army and was posted to the 1st Battalion The Cameronians (Scottish Rifles), serving with them in Germany for one year. He also held a staff appointment with the British Army.
