Oman’s First Lady Praises Women’s Contributions, Highlights Expanded Representation in Shura Council

Muscat, The Gulf Observer: Her Highness the Honourable Lady Assayida Ahd Abdullah Hamed Al Busaidi, Spouse of the Sultan of Oman, has extended heartfelt greetings to Omani women on the occasion of Omani Women’s Day, observed annually on October 17, recognising their contributions to national development, cultural preservation and the advancement of society.

In her message, Lady Assayida Ahd paid tribute to the strength, wisdom and dedication of Omani women, describing them as custodians of the country’s rich heritage, guardians of its enduring values and essential contributors to its progress.

She said women across generations had played a significant role in shaping modern Oman and helping build a foundation for its future aspirations. She also extended her warmest wishes to families across the Sultanate and to every woman who calls Oman home.

This year’s celebration carries particular significance following a Royal Directive issued by His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to allocate an additional seat for women in the Shura Council in each governorate.

Lady Assayida Ahd described the decision as an important milestone in Oman’s development, reflecting the high regard in which Omani women are held and the Sultan’s confidence in their capabilities and contributions to shaping the country’s future.

She said the directive demonstrated a vision of progress that respects Oman’s cultural heritage while embracing opportunities presented by a changing world.

She emphasised that expanded opportunities for representation also carried a responsibility to ensure meaningful participation and translate the confidence placed in women into dedicated service to the nation.

Highlighting the changing global environment, Lady Assayida Ahd noted that rapid advances in knowledge, growing interconnectedness and diverse social influences had made women’s roles in nurturing individuals, strengthening families and shaping communities increasingly important.

She said women’s influence extended beyond professional responsibilities, encompassing the values they instil, the confidence they foster, the minds they inspire and their contribution to preserving identity and a sense of belonging.

Expressing confidence in Omani women, she said they would continue to fulfil these responsibilities with wisdom, foresight and purpose, drawing on the knowledge, sound judgement and dedication that had long characterised their contributions to society.

Lady Assayida Ahd further stressed that honouring women should extend beyond a single day of celebration, representing recognition of their lifelong commitment to nurturing potential and building a society in which every individual is valued and given opportunities to flourish.

She highlighted knowledge, dignity and creativity as essential foundations for strong and prosperous nations, emphasising the importance of these principles in preparing future generations to meet emerging opportunities and challenges.

Addressing Omani women directly, she expressed deep appreciation and respect, offering prayers for their continued success in inspiring future generations, leading with wisdom and compassion, and contributing fully to the country’s achievements and aspirations.

She also expressed hope that Oman would continue to draw strength from the determination and accomplishments of its women and men, while moving forward with confidence in their dedication to the nation.

Concluding her message, Lady Assayida Ahd wished Omani women continued success in their endeavours, urging them to remain steadfast in their values and committed to national progress.

She said Omani women would continue to be a source of pride and inspiration and enduring partners in shaping the future of the Sultanate.