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How The Sultan of Oman Secretly Travels
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00:00Ever wondered what it's like to explore the world like one of the most fascinating monarchs on the
00:04planet? You're about to find out. The Sultan of Oman redefines what luxury travel means with an
00:09awe-inspiring fleet. From the opulent Boeing private jets and lavish Airbus, a 320 of the
00:15Royal Flight of Oman to the magnificent Al-Said, one of the world's most expensive yachts,
00:20his indulgence knows no bounds. Adding to the grandeur is his jaw-dropping car collection,
00:25featuring gems like the Bugatti Chiron and Mercedes-Maybach. It's clear the Sultan doesn't
00:29just travel, but he does it in unmatched style and sophistication. Buckle up as today. We're
00:34pulling back the velvet curtain on the Sultan of Oman's luxurious globe-trotting escapades,
00:39his remarkable journey to power, and the incredible fortune that fuels it all. Prepare to be amazed
00:44by a world where the skies are private, the seas are exclusive, and no detail is ever too extravagant.
00:50Sultan of Oman, a journey in luxury. Hidden behind the majestic mountains of Oman and stretching
00:56across the golden deserts lies a kingdom of unparalleled beauty and grandeur. At its helm
01:00is Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, an icon of leadership, heritage, and luxury. But what sets him apart
01:05on the world stage isn't just his wisdom, it's his opulent travel style. From the skies
01:10to the seas, Sultan Haitham's journeys are a spectacle of magnificence. When it comes to travel,
01:15Sultan Haitham bin Tariq spares no expense. From state-of-the-art private jets to majestic
01:19yachts that glide through the Arabian Sea, his journeys redefine luxury. Let's start with the skies,
01:25where the Sultan commands his kingdom from a bird's eye view. Sultan Haitham's primary airborne
01:30chariot is no ordinary plane. The RFO, sometimes referred to as the Royal Flight of Oman, is home
01:35to the magnificent Royal Fleet of Jets, one of the world's premier airlines. A $100 million Boeing 747,
01:42430 and a $418.4 million Boeing 747 SB27 are included in the RFO. The Sultan of Oman also owns
01:52Airbus A320, Airbus A319, and Gulfstream's 550S. Apart from these jets, the Sultan also has a few
01:59helicopters that are often used in cases of emergency when he needs to travel, or if the security team
02:05needs a vehicle to monitor the situation aerially, and the Super Puma is the one he opts for.
02:10However, the centerpiece of Sultan Haitham's aerial fleet is the Boeing 747, a flying palace in every sense
02:16of the word. This aircraft, custom-built for the Sultan, is a technological marvel. Imagine stepping
02:21into a jet where gold accents gleam under custom lighting. Plush leather seats rival the comfort
02:26of royal thrones, and silk-lined walls whisper tales of opulence. This isn't just a mode of transport,
02:32it's a statement of power. This jet features multiple bedrooms, a conference room equipped
02:36with cutting-edge communication systems, and even a private dining area where gourmet meals are served
02:41mid-flight, and the Sultan doesn't travel alone. His entourage, which includes high-ranking officials
02:46and personal staff, enjoys luxury seating arrangements designed for comfort and efficiency.
02:51This majestic aircraft is not only for personal use, it serves a crucial diplomatic role, transporting
02:57the Sultan on state visits, where every landing is a spectacle of grandeur. On board his Gulfstream
03:02550S, Sultan Haitham experiences the epitome of modern aviation. From its ultra-modern cockpit to the
03:09sumptuous interiors, this jet represents the pinnacle of private aviation. The cabin is fitted with the
03:14finest leather upholstery, handcrafted wood finishes, and a state-of-the-art entertainment system,
03:19ensuring every flight feels like a smooth glide through the clouds. With a range that extends over 7,000
03:25miles, the Gulfstream 550S gives Sultan Haitham the freedom to travel effortlessly between continents.
03:32Whether he's heading to business meetings in Europe or relaxing on the shores of the Seychelles,
03:36this jet ensures he arrives in supreme comfort and style. Picture this. Plush leather seats that
03:42recline into beds, fine silk upholstery, and even a private suite with a king-sized bed.
03:46The on-board dining experience is curated by top-tier chefs, offering delicacies from every
03:51corner of the globe. Need a meeting mid-flight? No problem. There's a conference room with satellite
03:56connectivity to keep Oman's affairs in check. When Sultan Haitham touches down, the luxury doesn't end,
04:01it shifts gears. His royal convoy is a jaw-dropping display of automotive elegance.
04:06Sultan Haitham is known to have a taste for precision engineering, and his collection of
04:10cars mirrors this perfectly. Moreover, traveling on the streets is quite dangerous for a sultan,
04:15and hence he has to travel in a bulletproof vehicle. Whenever the king travels, he travels
04:19in a vehicle that comes with tinted glass, and is surrounded by multiple cars filled with guards
04:23just to keep him safe. Most royal families are big fans of Mercedes, and so is the royal family
04:29of the Sultanate of Oman. Speaking of Mercedes, the king owns a Mercedes Maybach S600, along with
04:34the Mercedes E Classic limousine. The Sultan of Oman also owns a Range Rover Classic and a Rolls-Royce
04:40Silver Shadow, which he uses on special occasions. Because it is dangerous for a sultan to travel alone,
04:45he is usually accompanied by a chauffeur and many bodyguards. Additionally, the sultan's travel style
04:50is nicely complemented by the royal motorcade, which consists of many kinds of luxury cars and motorbikes.
04:55Among the crown jewels of his collection, his Rolls-Royce takes up a superior spot displaying
05:00a true symbol of aristocracy. With a bespoke interior tailored to his personal taste, it combines
05:05traditional craftsmanship with modern technology. It's not just a car, it's a rolling palace on
05:10four wheels, exuding understated power and grace. Tailored to the Sultan's specifications,
05:15these vehicles boast bulletproof armor, hand-stitched interiors, and a suspension system so smooth
05:20it feels like floating on air. Next, we talk about the favorite Mercedes Maybach S-Class,
05:25a blend of cutting-edge engineering and exclusive luxury. This is a car that doesn't just offer
05:30comfort, it offers absolute serenity. Whether he's being chauffeured to meetings or simply enjoying
05:35the Omani landscape, the Maybach is the perfect ride for a sultan who values both power and peace.
05:40But Sultan Haitham isn't just about classic luxury, he also knows how to command attention.
05:44The Bugatti Chiron, a monster of a machine, is owned by the royal family of Oman as well,
05:50and can often be seen speeding effortlessly across the highways of Oman. With a price tag
05:54nearing $3 million, this car is a statement of unmatched performance. For more rugged terrains,
05:59the Sultan opts for the Bentley Bentayga, an SUV that balances power with luxury. It's a symbol of
06:04versatility ready to conquer both urban streets and the vast deserts of Oman. But no account of Sultan
06:10Haitham's lifestyle would be complete without mentioning his personal yacht, a floating palace
06:14that epitomizes the Sultan's passion for the sea. Whether cruising along Oman's coastline or docking
06:20at exclusive marinas, the Sultan's yacht is a testament to the country's wealth and maritime
06:24legacy. Sultan Haitham doesn't just rule over land and air, he reigns supreme at sea as well.
06:30When he sets sail, it's aboard one of the most extravagant yachts in the world. His primary yacht,
06:34the Al-Sayed, is an absolute masterpiece. Measuring over 155 meters in length, it is one of the largest
06:40and most opulent private yachts on the planet. It's not just a yacht, it's a floating palace
06:45equipped with every imaginable luxury. From multiple pools to state-of-the-art spas, it's the perfect
06:50way for Sultan Haitham to unwind while exploring the stunning coastlines of the Arabian Gulf.
06:55Commissioned by Sultan Caboose bin Said, the $600 million mega-yacht is the seventh largest in the world.
07:01With a spacious 538-square-foot sleeping area and a separate 431-square-foot dressing room,
07:08the owner's suite alone is a lesson in royalty. The suite has a hot tub in the bathroom, a bar
07:13and an office. The massive six decks of Al-Sayed can comfortably house 26 cabins and 70 guests.
07:19Built by Lurson, a name synonymous with prestige, this yacht is a marvel of engineering and design.
07:24The yacht's exteriors exude elegance, but it's the interiors that steal the show.
07:28The Sultan's private quarters are fit for a king, literally, with intricate woodwork,
07:33hand-woven carpets and panoramic views of the ocean. The yacht boasts a concert hall that can
07:38host a 50-piece orchestra, perfect for private performances at sea. There's also a helipad for
07:43VIP guests, a cinema and a spa offering the finest treatments. The ship offers multiple meeting rooms,
07:48a private movie theater, fully furnished medical facilities and a dental treatment area.
07:53The interiors are decorated with magnificent Omani embellishments, many of which were created
07:58by Omani artisans. Imagine a vessel with multiple decks, helipads and even an onboard concert hall that
08:03can host a full orchestra. The Sultan's yacht serves as both a private retreat and a mobile
08:08diplomatic venue, showcasing Omani hospitality in its finest form. Then there's the magnificent
08:13yacht known as Fulk al-Salemar. Fulk al-Salemar, translated as ship of peace, is more than just a
08:18yacht. It is a floating palace, a vessel that embodies the luxurious lifestyle of one of the most respected
08:24monarchs in the Middle East. Measuring an impressive 164 meters in length, Fulk al-Salemar holds the title of
08:31one of the largest and most luxurious yachts in the world. But it's not just the size that sets
08:36this vessel apart. It's the fusion of traditional Omani design with modern luxury, a reflection of
08:41Sultan Haitham's reign and heritage. The yachts builder is Mariotti Yachts from Italy, who launched
08:46Fulk al-Salemar in 2016. With an astonishing length of 522 feet, this magnificent Mariotti ship is longer
08:53than both Al-Sayed and Russian businessman Alisha Usmanov's remarkable 512-foot Dilbar yacht,
08:59referred to as the Royal Support Vessel. This $500 million boat is a superb superyacht in her own
09:05right, complete with a beach club, a beauty salon, a helipad and conference facilities. Construction
09:10of this floating marvel began in 2008 and was completed in 2016. While its price tag is rumored
09:16to be around $300 million, it's not the cost that captures the imagination. It's the attention to detail
09:22and craftsmanship that make Fulk al-Salemar an extraordinary work of art. But luxury isn't just
09:28about the vehicles, it's about the protocols that ensure a smooth and regal journey. Every royal trip
09:33is meticulously planned, with security measures that rival those of global superpowers. An advance
09:39team scouts every location weeks before the Sultan's arrival. The Royal Motorcade includes a fleet of
09:44armoured SUVs, motorcycles, emergency medical vehicles and even horses sometimes, ensuring every
09:50contingency is covered. But the Sultan's luxurious travel is not limited to personal leisure. As a key figure
09:56in Middle Eastern diplomacy, Sultan Haitham frequently embarks on state visits to forge alliances,
10:01discuss business ventures and promote Oman's interests on the global stage. As extravagant as
10:06his travel style is, it is merely a glimpse into the Sultan's broader world of unmatched luxury and
10:11indulgence. His lavish travel habits speak volumes about his taste for the finest things in life.
10:15But the Sultan of Oman's opulent lifestyle doesn't stop there. Behind the scenes, his entire existence,
10:21from his sprawling estates to his private collections, reveals a life dedicated to the pursuit of luxury and
10:26power that comes with the throne. The majestic lifestyle of Sultan of Oman.
10:31Home for Sultan Haitham is a series of opulent palaces, each carefully crafted to reflect his vision and the
10:37heritage of Oman. Each of Sultan Haitham's palaces is a haven of luxury, blending traditional Omani design with the
10:43finest modern amenities. From high ceilings with intricate woodwork to grandiose chandeliers and breathtaking views of the sea and
10:49mountains, every room in these palaces exudes regality. The Sultan's private residence offers him both comfort and the
10:55space to reflect, but also a public venue for receiving distinguished guests and hosting lavish state events.
11:02The Sultan's private residences are as grand as they are sacred.
11:05The Al Alam Palace in Muscat, Oman's capital, is a visual masterpiece. A symbol of both the Sultanate's proud history and its
11:12prosperous future, Al Alam stands as a beacon of Oman's royal heritage. The palace itself, with its gleaming blue and gold
11:18façade, is an architectural marvel. It is surrounded by lush gardens, reflecting pools and breathtaking vistas
11:25of Oman's mountainous terrain. Al Alam Palace, also known as the Flag Palace, is one of the Sultan's six homes.
11:31Despite being less elaborate than other royal homes, the castle's blue and gold exterior makes it culturally
11:36noteworthy. Rebuilt as a royal residence in 1972, the Flag Palace is a massive white structure with surfaces of
11:43highly polished marble. Within the royal grounds is a guest villa featuring a jacuzzi, pool and well-kept
11:49walled gardens. The Mirani and Jalali forts, which were constructed by the Portuguese in the 16th
11:54century, protect the entire palace. The palace has previously welcomed rulers such as the Queen of
11:59England, King Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall, and the Queen of the Netherlands. But Al Alam is not
12:04the only residence that Sultan Haitham calls home. The Sultan boasts an extensive array of estates and
12:10palaces scattered across Oman, each one uniquely designed to serve both as a symbol of Oman's
12:15royal authority and a sanctuary of rest. Away from the urban landscape of Muscat, the Sultan's estates
12:20in Salala, called the Al-Hozan Palace, provide a serene retreat. With rolling hills, fragrant
12:25frankincense trees, and an abundance of natural beauty, these royal grounds offer a tranquil sanctuary
12:30for the Sultan and his guests. Here, modern luxury intertwines with nature, as sprawling gardens
12:35and private villas reflect the Sultan's commitment to preserving Oman's cultural heritage while
12:40embracing the luxuries of contemporary living. At least nine houses in London and the south of
12:45England, valued at a combined $100 million, are owned by Oman's elite internationally.
12:51Hazelaw House, a 14-acre estate in Staffordshire, is one example. There is a 1785 fireplace in the
12:57master bedroom and a unique Colombian marble fireplace in the dining area of this seven-bedroom home
13:02with a Derbyshire flagstone floor. In 1980, the $35 million won a manor was acquired. Deer
13:08meadows and an 800-metre lake are just a few features of this luxurious property. The Sultan's
13:13wardrobe is a stunning example of tradition meeting modernity. Haytham bin Tariq, a man known for his
13:18dignified poise and regal presence dressed in the finest attire, an embodiment of Oman's sophisticated
13:24blend of heritage and contemporary style. His daily wear often includes the traditional dish-dasher
13:29or kandura, a long robe made from the finest cotton, silks and luxurious fabrics. These robes
13:35are designed not only to offer comfort in the Omani heat, but also to symbolize a dignified and
13:40understated elegance. When the Sultan attends formal events, his attire is far from ordinary.
13:45His ceremonial robes are embroidered with intricate silver and gold threads that reflect Oman's rich
13:50history and craftsmanship. The Sultan's signature accessories include ornate daggers known as kanjar
13:56and elaborate turbans, which add an extra layer of regality to his persona. However,
14:00it's not always the traditional attire that defines his royal image. Haytham bin Tariq is also
14:05seen sporting custom-tailored western suits, modern and sleek, yet with subtle cultural nuances woven
14:11into the fabric. Whether in the palace or on a state visit, the Sultan's wardrobe reflects his ability
14:16to bridge the gap between the old and the new. His lifestyle also reflects his commitment to Oman's
14:21rich culture. During his travels, Sultan Haytham is never without a touch of Omani heritage.
14:26From the distinctive dishdasha he wears during formal events to the kanjar,
14:31dagger at his side, his attire always pays homage to centuries of tradition. And it's not just in his
14:36appearance. The Sultan's dedication to showcasing Oman's unparalleled beauty, its rich history and
14:41its forward-thinking vision is evident in the places he visits and the relationships he nurtures.
14:46Generosity is another hallmark of Sultan Haytham bin Tariq's reign. Known for his ultra-generous
14:52gifts to both domestic and international leaders, he has built a reputation for fostering strong
14:56diplomatic ties through acts of kindness. Whether it's lavish presents of rare Omani frankincense or
15:02ceremonial gifts of gold and gemstones, Sultan Haytham's generosity is legendary. But it's not just
15:07about material wealth. His gifts often include personal tokens that reflect Oman's cultural pride,
15:13crafted art, historical manuscripts and royal regalia, all symbolizing Oman's heritage.
15:18Perhaps the most iconic of his royal symbols is the Sultan's cavalry. The Omani royal cavalry,
15:23dressed in their ceremonial armor, rides through the streets with unmatched grace. The Sultan himself
15:28has a deep connection to his cavalry, often participating in royal events, where horse riding
15:32is an essential component of the Omani tradition. The cavalry's presence at royal ceremonies and state
15:38functions serves as a reminder of the Sultan's respect for his ancestor's warrior spirit,
15:42and a way to showcase Oman's noble history and strength. Despite his royal status, Sultan
15:47Haytham remains deeply connected to Oman's culture and traditions. His lifestyle is not solely built
15:52around modern luxuries, but also rooted in the country's centuries-old customs. A keen lover of
15:57Omani falconry and horseback riding, the Sultan often spends his free time enjoying outdoor pursuits.
16:03While Sultan Haytham's wealth and luxury are evident in his personal lifestyle, his reign is also marked by
16:08diplomatic mastery. Known for his efforts to modernize Oman while preserving its deep-rooted traditions,
16:13the Sultan plays an instrumental role on the world stage. His generosity and sense of cultural pride are
16:19reflected not only in his country's resources, but also in his global connections. The wealth and
16:24influence Sultan Haytham commands today are the fruits of a life rich with history and preparation,
16:29beginning with his formative years and the steady climb that led him to power.
16:34The Rise of His Reign
16:35What many see as a lavish life today is the culmination of a carefully plotted trajectory,
16:40one that began with a young man preparing for leadership from an early age. Born on the 11th of
16:45October 1954, Sultan Haytham bin Tariq al-Sayed was destined for a life of public service and leadership.
16:51He was born into the al-Sayed family, Oman's ruling dynasty, in a time when the country was undergoing
16:56significant change. His father, Tariq bin Taimur, was a prominent member of the royal family and his
17:02mother was from the esteemed al-Busaid family, further solidifying his aristocratic lineage.
17:07Haytham grew up in the royal court surrounded by the state's governance and was closely linked to Oman's
17:12political and diplomatic circles. His family had a long-standing tradition of serving in high
17:17government positions and Haytham's upbringing was marked by a combination of traditional royal education
17:22and a focus on diplomacy and international relations. Haytham received a well-rounded education with an
17:28emphasis on governance, diplomacy and the responsibilities that come with leadership.
17:33He completed his primary education at Saidiya School in Muscat and attended Brumana High School
17:38in Lebanon. To broaden his education, Haytham continued his studies abroad. He attended the
17:43British University of Oxford in the United Kingdom, where he studied in the field of Foreign Service and
17:48International Relations. This international experience prepared him for his future role
17:53in Omani diplomacy and governance. Haytham's political journey began in 1986 when he joined
17:58the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Over the years, he held various key positions, including Undersecretary
18:03for Political Affairs and Secretary General of the Ministry. In 2002, he was appointed Minister
18:08of Heritage and Culture, a role he held until his ascension to the throne. But before Sultan
18:13Haytham could ascend the throne, the country had to undergo a monumental shift. To understand this,
18:18we must look back at the reign of Sultan Qaboos bin Said, Oman's longest reigning monarch.
18:23Sultan Qaboos ruled Oman for nearly five decades, from 1970 until his death in January 2020.
18:29During Sultan Qaboos's reign, Oman transformed from a largely isolated country into a modern and
18:34progressive state, both in terms of infrastructure and foreign diplomacy. He implemented sweeping reforms
18:39in education, healthcare and industry, and his leadership was pivotal in establishing
18:44Oman's neutral and independent foreign policy. Sultan Qaboos was also the driving force behind
18:49Oman's peaceful approach to regional conflicts, often acting as a mediator between opposing sides.
18:55But as Sultan Qaboos grew older, questions surrounding succession became inevitable.
18:59Oman, like many Gulf monarchies, faced the challenge of selecting a successor,
19:04a process that was traditionally shrouded in secrecy. In Oman, the role of the Sultan is far-reaching,
19:09encompassing both political leadership and spiritual guidance. The Sultan is not just a head of state,
19:15but also the guardian of Oman's customs and traditions, the symbol of unity and continuity.
19:20Unlike some other Gulf monarchies, Oman's Sultans have historically exercised a great deal of personal
19:25authority, making decisions that directly impact the country's foreign relations, economic policies and
19:30social progress. Sultan Qaboos's reign was a period of consolidation, where he firmly cemented the
19:35Sultanate's independence and cultivated Oman's image as a peaceful, neutral nation in the Middle East.
19:40His death in January 2020 marked the end of an era, and the country faced a crucial moment in
19:46determining its future direction. Sultan Qaboos's death left behind a well-thought-out but secretive
19:51succession plan. In the days following his passing, the Royal Family's Council was tasked with selecting
19:57a new Sultan from among the royal family. This process was not entirely public, but it was clear that
20:02Qaboos had a plan in place, and this is where fate decided to reward Haitham bin Tariq with numerous
20:07bounties, and welcome him to a new period in his life as the King of Oman. Prior to his death, Sultan
20:13Qaboos had written a letter naming his preferred successor. The letter was revealed to the public
20:17only after the Sultan's passing, and it named Haitham bin Tariq as the next Sultan of Oman. This move was
20:23seen as both a continuation of the policies of Sultan Qaboos, and a fresh approach to Oman's future.
20:28Haitham bin Tariq's rise to power was smooth, largely due to the careful planning of Sultan Qaboos,
20:33and the respect he commanded within the royal family. Haitham, who had served in various key
20:38governmental positions, was well known to the people of Oman. He had served as the Minister of
20:42Heritage and Culture, where he worked to preserve Oman's rich cultural heritage, as well as in the
20:47diplomatic realm, representing Oman at international forums. His experience in foreign relations proved
20:53essential, as Oman faced a changing geopolitical landscape. Haitham's first actions as Sultan
20:59involved consolidating his power domestically, and reassuring the world that Oman's foreign
21:03policy would remain a pillar of neutrality and peace. Upon assuming the throne, Sultan Haitham made
21:08it clear that his vision for Oman would be to build upon the legacy of his predecessor while addressing
21:13the challenges of a new era. One of his primary focuses has been economic diversification. Oman,
21:19like many oil-rich nations, faces the challenge of moving away from reliance on oil exports to
21:25ensure long-term prosperity. Sultan Haitham has emphasized the importance of investing in education,
21:30technology and sustainable industries, while also cultivating Oman's role as a regional hub for
21:35business and tourism. His diplomatic approach has been rooted in the same neutrality and pragmatism that
21:40defined Sultan Qaboos' reign. Oman's role as a mediator in Middle Eastern conflicts remains strong,
21:46and Sultan Haitham has already made efforts to maintain Oman's neutral stance in the region's
21:50ongoing power struggles. The rise of Sultan Haitham bin Tariq was more than just a change
21:55of leadership. It was the beginning of a new era for the Sultanate of Oman. Sultan Haitham bin Tariq's
22:00life is a life of luxury but also of responsibility, tradition and honor. A ruler who seamlessly blends
22:06ancient Omani heritage with the demands of modern governance, his life remains a grand symphony of
22:11elegance, diplomacy and generosity. A life that continues to inspire admiration both within Oman
22:17and across the world. If you enjoyed this video do check out other cards on your screen for more
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