Mourning for Sultan Qaboos marked by holidays in Oman and Kuwait

Sultan Qaboos Bin Said of Oman, the Arab world’s longest-serving ruler, passed away late on Friday January 10th 2020.

The sultan deposed his father in a bloodless coup with British support in 1970 and set Oman on a path to development, using its oil wealth.

His cousin Haitham bin Tariq Al Said has been sworn in as his successor.

Oman

The Diwan of Royal Court has announced a state of mourning and the halt of official work in the public and private sectors for three days and the flying of flags at half-mast over the forthcoming 40 days. Work will resume on Wednesday January 15th 2020.

As a mark of respect, Kuwait has declared three days of mourning on Saturday, Sunday and Monday for Sultan Qaboos.

Public Holidays in Oman for 2020

Kuwait

The Civil Service Commission announced a three-day off-duty period for governmental institutes starting Saturday, in mourning of the late Sultan Qaboos Bin Said of Oman.
In a statement, the Commission said the decision came in line with the direct orders from His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, noting that work will resume on Tuesday January 14th 2020.

The Union of Kuwaiti Banks have announced that local banks would not be open for business on Sunday January 12th and Monday January 13th.