The Gulf Time Newspaper One of the finest business newspapers in the UAE brought to you by our professional writers and editors.
Abu Dhabi / WAM
The UAE will share with the Sultanate of Oman the celebration of its glorious National Day on Sunday in a gesture that strengthens the deeply-rooted historic bonds of fraternity, compassion and common destiny under the able leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said of Oman.
Since the first historic meeting between the Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan and Sultan Qaboos, the ties between the UAE and Oman have experienced significant progress across political, economic, social and cultural spheres thanks to the high spirit of concerted joint coordination and cooperation between Abu Dhabi and Muscat at regional and international levels on several issues of common interest.
The landmark visit to Muscat by Sheikh Zayed in 1991 constituted an important milestone in the course of the Emirati-Omani joint cooperation. Important resolutions were taken following the historic meeting including the free movement of Emirati and Omani citizens between both countries using ID cards instead of passports. A number of economic projects have also emerged including the AED450 million Oman & Emirates Investment Holding Company. Additionally, the two countries maintain strong coordination and cooperation in a number of security, military, security and media domains.
The fraternal bilateral ties have been growing much stronger under the prudent leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa.
Culturally, the two countries also share some tangible and intangible heritage performances, dances and poems. Since the establishment of the UAE Federation in 1971, the momentum in the cultural movement in both countries has been increasing, driven by the signing of several educational and cultural agreements. Frequent visits by officials from either country have also added to the momentum.
With regard to tourism, Oman remains one of the most important destinations for holidaymakers from the UAE either by air or road with millions of visitors moving freely between their respective borders.
On this spectacular day, airports across the UAE are warmly welcoming Omani visitors with Omani flags, flowers and sweets while major UAE landmarks have been illuminated with the Omani national colours. The Department of Tourism and Culture – Abu Dhabi will organise a number of cultural and entertainment events to mark the 47th National Day of Oman.