How King Charles altered royal protocol at Windsor Castle for Muslim Sultan

Inside St George’s Hall, the royal household turned its focus directly to tailored cultural hospitality for the 160 invited guests.

While standard alcoholic pairings remained fully available for non-Muslim attendees throughout the multi-course meal, non-alcoholic options and soft drinks were provided so the strictly teetotal Omani delegation could toast alongside their hosts.

Royal chefs replaced standard post-dinner spirits with bespoke hot and cold teas inspired by Kahwa, the traditional Gulf Arabic spiced coffee served to guests as a sign of respect.

Using British teas sweetened with honey from the Windsor estate, attendees were served an Earl Grey with date, an iced mint and rose, and a warm cardamom-spiced blend.

The evening’s wine list for non-Muslim guests included Langham Blanc de Blancs, Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru ‘Morgeot’ 2023, Château Margaux Premier Grand Cru Classé 1979, and Comtes de Champagne Taittinger 1998.

Addressing the hall, King Charles praised Islamic heritage and quoted directly from both traditional Arab literature and the Prophet Mohammad.

Opening his address in Arabic, the King welcomed the Sultan as “a visitor of whom one never tires” before reciting a verse by ancient Omani poet Shaykh al-Baiyaan.

It read: “May you live in fulfilment, sustained by blessings without end from your Lord, the Giver.”

The King went on to quote the Prophet Mohammad directly to praise the Omani people’s character and peaceful nature, highlighting the Islamic values of stewardship, community, and dialogue.

Emphasising the centuries-old alliance between both states, the King said: “Oman is one of Britain’s oldest allies and, after all these years, I pray, one of your closest friends.”

He commended the Sultan’s faith-driven commitment to environmental protection.

Charles said: “Your commitment to young people, environmental protection, and interfaith dialogue reflects a profound sense of responsibility towards society and future generations.”

Pointing to the ongoing partnership between their heirs, Prince William and Crown Prince Sayyid Theyazin, Charles added: “There can be few happier symbols of success than a living relationship being passed from one generation to the next.”

Sultan Haitham praised Britain as a trusted partner, noting Oman’s choice of dialogue over conflict in the region.

The State Visit continues in London today, while King Charles, Queen Camilla and Prince William are travelling to Wales to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Aberfan.