Sultan Qaboos of Oman passed away at the age of 79

Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said of Oman has passed away at the age of 79.

Sultan Qaboos was the Arab world’s longest-serving ruler.

A court statement said, “With great sorrow and deep sadness… the royal court mourns His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, who passed away on Friday.”

According to the international news agency, he was battling cancer and had gone back home after his treatment in Belgium.

Sultan Qaboos has no heir, as he was unmarried.

Three days of mourning will be observed in the country.

The Sultan had overthrown his father in a bloodless coup in 1970, the British had supported him. He took measures for the development of Oman using its oil resources.

After his demise, The Royal Family Council-will have to select a new Sultan within three days. The decision will be taken according to Sultanate’s Basic Statute. The Family Council comprises of 50 male members.

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However, in case if the family disagrees, a sealed envelope will be opened in which Sultan Qaboos secretly mentioned his choice of next person and the name will be enthroned next.

Members of the defense counsel, the chairman of the Supreme Court, the Consultative Council and the State Council have the authority to open the envelope.

The Sultan is the decision-maker in Oman and he acts as Prime Minister, Supreme Commander of the armed forces, ministry of defense, minister of finance and minister of foreign affairs.