Prince William kicks off State Visit as future King greets Sultan of Oman at his residence

The State Visit is set to highlight the enduring diplomatic, military, and economic ties between the British Royal Family and the Sultanate of Oman.

Following the initial meeting, Prince William accompanied Sultan Haitham to Windsor, where the formal ceremonies of state will unfold.

The royal greeting marks the first in a series of ceremonial events planned for the landmark visit.

Later today, the King and Queen are set to formally welcome the Sultan at the Royal Dais on Datchet Road in Windsor.

The arrival will be heralded by grand military honours, with a ceremonial Royal Salute fired simultaneously at Home Park in Windsor and at the historic Tower of London.

Following the official welcome, Sultan Haitham will join the King and Queen, alongside the Prince and Princess of Wales, for a traditional carriage procession through the historic streets of Windsor town.

The carriage processional route will take the royal party up to Windsor Castle, where a Guard of Honour awaits in the iconic Quadrangle.

Inside the Quadrangle, the regimental Band is scheduled to perform the Omani and British National Anthems before the Sultan, accompanied by the King, inspects the Guard of Honour and views a military march past.

The afternoon will feature a private lunch in the State Dining Room.

During this, members of the Royal Family will host the Omani delegation, followed by a viewing of a specially curated exhibition in the Green Drawing Room showcasing historic Omani items from the Royal Collection.

The first day of the visit will culminate this evening in a grand State Banquet hosted at Windsor Castle, featuring addresses by both monarchs.

The high-level discussions come at a critical time for regional stability, as Oman continues to navigate complex security dynamics in the Middle East.

Positioned along the vital Strait of Hormuz, Muscat has repeatedly acted as a crucial diplomatic bridge amidst heightened tensions surrounding Iranian missile activity and maritime security.

Sultan Haitham’s visit reflects the UK’s commitment to strengthening security partnerships with key Gulf allies to promote stability across the broader region.