A Lifelong Bond with Oman: What It Means for Investors and Entrepreneurs in Oman’s Growing Market
What began as a childhood fascination with a geography book has blossomed into a profound and enduring relationship with Oman for UK governance and organisational development expert Clive Curtis.
He now regards the Sultanate of Oman as a “second home,” forged through friendship, shared values, and frequent visits spanning over four decades.
With a career of more than 40 years across the public, charitable, and governance sectors in the UK, Clive focuses professionally on culture, people, and organisational development. He currently serves as the Company Secretary of The British Omani Society, an organisation dedicated to fostering mutual understanding and friendship between the UK and Oman. Additionally, he sits on the Board of Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, where he chairs the People & Culture Committee.
Clive’s connection to Oman began long before his professional endeavors. Reflecting on his early interest, he recalls, “My first glimpse of Oman came from a school geography book when I was about ten. The photographs of stark mountains, deep wadis, and quiet beaches captured my imagination in a way I didn’t fully understand at the time.”
When he finally visited Oman years later, the experience deepened that childhood fascination. “It felt like stepping into a place I’d been carrying with me for decades. The landscapes were even more striking in person — the book was a sketch, but the reality was in full colour.”
Beyond the landscapes, it was the atmosphere of Oman that left a lasting impression. “What stayed with me most was the scent of the air, the warmth of the welcome, and a profound sense of calm and dignity.”
Over the years, Clive has observed Oman’s development from both personal and professional perspectives. “I’ve always admired how Oman has changed without losing its centre. It’s a country that grows thoughtfully; nothing feels rushed or out of place,” he notes. He adds that Oman exemplifies a rare model of progress: “You can modernise and embrace the future while still honoring your heritage and story.”
In his role with the British Omani Society, Clive has contributed to strengthening UK-Oman relations but stresses that the most meaningful connections transcend formal institutions. “The strongest ties are always personal. While governance and structure matter, the most meaningful moments happen informally — over a shared meal or a cup of coffee. That’s where real friendships begin.”
His personal experiences hosting Omani friends in the UK have further enriched his appreciation of Omani culture. “When someone stays in your home, you see their culture in the small things — the humour, the courtesy, the instinctive, quiet generosity. Omani hospitality isn’t tied to geography; it travels with the people.”
Currently, Clive divides his time between Wales, Yorkshire, and London, while maintaining regular visits to Oman — a place he increasingly regards as an emotional anchor as well as a cultural interest. “Oman is often described as having a quiet confidence. There’s a balance there — modern but rooted, ambitious yet humble.”
He believes that continuity is one of Oman’s defining strengths. “Traditions remain beautifully intact even as the country advances. That sense of identity is what stands out most.”
For first-time visitors, Clive encourages exploring beyond the capital. “Oman rewards slow travel. From Nizwa’s history to the stillness of Wadi Bani Khalid, the more you pause, the more the country reveals itself.”
Ultimately, for Clive, Oman is defined by its people. “It’s the conversations, the shared meals, and the feeling of being part of people’s lives that linger long after I’ve flown home. What keeps drawing me back is simple — the people, who turn every visit into something that feels like home.”
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
Clive Curtis’s longstanding relationship with Oman underscores the country’s unique blend of modern development and cultural continuity, offering a stable yet dynamic environment for businesses. For investors and entrepreneurs, this signals opportunities in sectors benefiting from thoughtful growth and strong international ties, especially those fostering cross-cultural collaboration. Embracing Oman’s deep-rooted identity and emphasis on personal relationships can provide a strategic advantage in building lasting partnerships within the market.
