World Alert: Sultan Qaboos bin Said of Oman, the longest-serving ruler in the Arab world, has died at 79

During 50 years in power, the sultan dramatically transformed the gulf state of Oman and became a vital behind-the-scenes figure in Middle East diplomacy. Without children or brothers — Oman does not permit one of his sisters to rule — Sultan Qaboos had no direct heir. He refused to publicly name a possible successor from within his clan, which has ruled Oman for nearly 250 years.

Democracy Dies in Darkness     World Alert Jan 10, 9:50 PM     Sultan Qaboos bin Said of Oman, the longest-serving ruler in the Arab world, has died at 79 During 50 years in power, the sultan dramatically transformed the gulf state of Oman and became a vital behind-the-scenes figure in Middle East diplomacy. Without children or brothers — Oman does not permit one of his sisters to rule — Sultan Qaboos had no direct heir. He refused to publicly name a possible successor from within his clan, which has ruled Oman for nearly 250 years. Read more » Advertisement You received this email because you signed up for news alerts from The Washington Post. Manage my newsletters and alerts | Unsubscribe Privacy Policy | Help ©2020 The Washington Post, 1301 K St NW, Washington DC 20071