Sultan of Oman Seeks to Make the Sultanate an Investment Destination

Sultan Haitham bin Tariq delivering a speech on the second anniversary of his accession to power, (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Sultan Haitham bin Tariq delivering a speech on the second anniversary of his accession to power, (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Sultan of Oman Seeks to Make the Sultanate an Investment Destination

Sultan Haitham bin Tariq delivering a speech on the second anniversary of his accession to power, (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Sultan Haitham bin Tariq delivering a speech on the second anniversary of his accession to power, (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Sultan of Oman Haitham bin Tariq delivered a speech Tuesday on the second anniversary of his accession to power.

Sultan Haitham said the nation has dealt with a number of challenges in the country with “wisdom and patience”.

He further called for more local investment and said he looks forward to making the Sultanate a foreign investment destination.

“Local investment is one of the important pillars for diversifying national sources of income. Now that we've launched many national programs and created a supportive environment, we urge for more local investment," he said in his speech.

“We look forward to making our country a leading investment destination in all fields."

He also emphasized the significant role the youth can play with their involvement in building the nation.

"We are resolved to lend them our support and encourage their entrepreneurship programs," the Sultan affirmed.

"We will offer necessary support and incentives to small and medium enterprises, given their vital role in stimulating the economy."



Ceremony Begins to Replace Kiswa of Holy Kaaba, Continuing a Legacy of Over 100 Years

The entire Kiswa weighs approximately 1,415 kilograms. (SPA)
The entire Kiswa weighs approximately 1,415 kilograms. (SPA)
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Ceremony Begins to Replace Kiswa of Holy Kaaba, Continuing a Legacy of Over 100 Years

The entire Kiswa weighs approximately 1,415 kilograms. (SPA)
The entire Kiswa weighs approximately 1,415 kilograms. (SPA)

The General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, through the King Abdulaziz Complex for the Holy Kaaba Kiswa, officially started the annual ceremony to replace the Kiswa of the Holy Kaaba, a tradition that has been carried out for over a century.

As part of the carefully coordinated process, the complex began by removing the gilded curtain from the Kaaba door, which measures 6.35 meters in length and 3.33 meters in width, as well as dismantling the chandeliers and decorative ornaments, reported the Saudi Press Agency.

This marks the beginning of replacing the old Kiswa with a new one, crafted with exceptional precision and spiritual significance. The new Kiswa is currently en route to the Grand Mosque, accompanied by a comprehensive system of logistical and operational support that follows the highest global standards.

A fully Saudi team of 154 trained craftsmen, each scientifically and practically qualified, is overseeing the process. Their duties include raising the old Kiswa, detaching the gilded elements, and installing the new Kiswa, which comprises 47 intricately embroidered black silk panels featuring 68 Quranic verses stitched with 24-karat gold-plated silver threads. The entire Kiswa weighs approximately 1,415 kilograms.

To create the new Kiswa, the team used 120 kilograms of gold-plated silver thread, 60 kilograms of pure silver, 825 kilograms of silk, and 410 kilograms of raw cotton. Additionally, 54 gilded pieces were produced using eight specialized weaving machines within the complex.

The ceremony is a profound expression of the Kingdom's dedication to serving Islam’s holiest sites. The continued renewal of the Kaaba's Kiswa stands as a majestic and enduring symbol of reverence, care, and spiritual legacy upheld by Saudi Arabia for over a century.