King Charles III is set to welcome Sultan Haitham bin Tarik Al Said of Oman to the United Kingdom for a state visit at Windsor Castle, marking the first time in 44 years that a Sultan of Oman has made such a visit to Britain. The three-day visit, scheduled from October 20 to 22, 2026, highlights the longstanding relationship between the two countries.
The British monarch and Queen Camilla will host the Sultan alongside Prince William and Catherine, the Princess of Wales. The royal family is expected to attend a ceremonial welcome and a state banquet at St George’s Hall in Windsor Castle. The visit is also the first incoming state visit since Prince Harry and Meghan returned to the United Kingdom, although the couple will not participate in official royal engagements because they are no longer working members of the royal family.
Prince William is expected to welcome the Sultan at his London residence on behalf of the King before accompanying him to Windsor. The formal reception will include a horse-drawn carriage procession through the town, a ceremonial welcome and an inspection of the Guard of Honour. The royal family will then host the Sultan at the historic castle for the evening banquet.
The visit also marks the first state banquet for Andy Burnham in his role as British Prime Minister. The Sultan is expected to hold talks with Burnham at Downing Street on Wednesday, with discussions taking place against the backdrop of continuing conflict in the Middle East. The two leaders previously met in July to discuss efforts to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, with Burnham expressing appreciation for Oman’s mediation efforts.
The last state visit to Britain by a Sultan of Oman took place in March 1982, when the late Queen Elizabeth II hosted Sultan Qaboos bin Said, a cousin of the current ruler, at Buckingham Palace. Sultan Haitham last met King Charles at Windsor Castle in July 2025 during a private visit. The latest visit is expected to strengthen diplomatic ties and provide an opportunity for both countries to discuss regional security, trade, investment and wider cooperation.
