Doha: The fraternal relations between the State of Qatar and the Sultanate of Oman reflect a longstanding journey of cooperation and integration, founded on a deep-rooted historical legacy and strengthened by close bonds of faith, language, and shared destiny. These ties are underpinned by mutual respect and the unwavering commitment of the two leaderships and peoples to advancing their common interests.
According to Qatar News Agency, the foundations of the modern relationship were laid in the early 1970s. In 1973, an Amiri decree was issued appointing Qatar's first ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman, while Oman's first ambassador to Qatar presented his credentials in Doha in 1974. This diplomatic milestone was not simply a product of that era; rather, it represented an extension of longstanding popular, commercial, and cultural ties shaped by geographical proximity and a shared Arab and Islamic identity.
The visit of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to Oman in October 2013, followed by the state visit of HM Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, of Oman, to Doha in November 2021, and HH the Amir's visit to Muscat in January 2025, represented significant milestones in the evolution of relations between Doha and Muscat. In addition to signing several memoranda of understanding and executive programs in various fields, the mutual visits between leaders and senior officials of the two countries have contributed to moving bilateral relations to broader horizons.
Political coordination between Qatar and Oman is characterised by stability and depth and remains one of the defining features of their strategic ties. The two countries have been members of the Gulf Cooperation Council since its establishment in 1981, and Doha and Muscat remain committed to strengthening collective action within the Gulf framework. They regularly consult on efforts to reduce regional tensions and play constructive diplomatic roles grounded in wisdom and moderation.
The reciprocal visits of the leaders and joint statements issued on various occasions reflect a shared vision of strengthening Gulf cohesion and integration. Such coordination contributes to regional security and stability. Internationally, the two countries coordinate their positions at the United Nations and within regional organisations, reinforcing their role as moderate voices that support peace and sustainable development.
The Qatar-Oman Joint Committee, established in 1995, has played a crucial role in identifying opportunities and developing joint investment projects. It has helped transform bilateral relations from diplomatic coordination into a practical partnership. Trade between the two countries has witnessed growth, with bilateral trade at approximately OMR 1.113 billion by the end of 2023.
Qatari investments in Oman grew by 12 percent by the end of 2023, reaching OMR 730 million, with about 15 Qatari companies investing across various sectors. Meanwhile, hundreds of Omani companies operate in the Qatari market.
The relationship extends beyond political and economic spheres to encompass cultural, educational, and social cooperation. Exchanges continue in fields such as art, music, theatre, and heritage preservation. This harmony is reflected in numerous memoranda of understanding and executive programmes aimed at promoting intellectual and artistic exchange.
Cultural festivals and joint forums provide a platform for expertise exchange among creative communities. The selection of Oman as Guest of Honour at the 2024 Doha International Book Fair exemplified the depth of cultural ties between the countries.
Overall, Qatar-Oman relations represent a Gulf success story built on shared interests. With continued leadership support, future integration in investments and projects is expected to serve both peoples and contribute to regional security and prosperity.