King Charles Speaks Arabic and Quotes Hadith in Historic Meeting with Omani Sultan

King Charles III quoted Prophet Muhammad (SAW) in Arabic while hosting Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tarik at Windsor Castle. The historic state banquet took place on Tuesday, October 20, marking the first UK visit by an Omani sultan in 44 years.

A Hadith of Peace and Character

In his welcoming address at the banquet, the King spoke in Arabic to recite a famous Hadith praising the renowned character and gentleness of the Omani people:

لَوْ أَنَّ أَهْلَ عُمَانَ أَتَيْتَ مَا سَبُّوكَ وَلَا ضَرَبُوكَ

“If you had gone to the people of Oman, they would neither have insulted you nor beaten you.”

Sahih Muslim 2544

The background to this tradition tells of a messenger sent by the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) to an Arab tribe, where he was met with abuse and violence. Upon his return, the Prophet (SAW) reassured him with these words. Over 1,400 years later, Oman maintains that same global reputation for gentleness, diplomacy, and choosing dialogue over conflict.

Opening his speech in Arabic, King Charles welcomed the Sultan as "a visitor of whom one never tires" and commended Oman’s vital role as a regional peacemaker. Hearing the words of the Prophet (SAW) echo through the grand halls of Windsor Castle serves as a powerful reminder of how far his message of peace has traveled.

Inside the Elaborate State Banquet

Members of the Royal Family, including King Charles, Queen Camilla, Prince William, Catherine (Princess of Wales), and Princess Anne, gathered at Windsor Castle to host the royal delegation.

To honor Omani hospitality, a special collection of teas inspired by traditional Omani Kahwa was served. Blending British tea culture with classic Omani aromatics like cardamom, rose, and dates, guests were offered Iced Earl Grey & Date, Iced Mint & Rose, or a Warm Cardamom-Spiced Blend sweetened with Windsor honey.

At the main dinner, an elaborate banquet was set for approximately 160 total guests in St. George’s Hall:

• Table Settings: The grand table featured crystal candelabra, polished decorations, and five glasses per setting. Even the surface of the salt in the salt cellars was delicately stamped with King Charles's royal cypher.
• Catering & Hospitality: Tables were decorated with lush floral arrangements and fresh fruit. While wine was offered as part of traditional state protocol, non-alcoholic spiced coffee drinks were provided for Muslim guests in place of traditional alcoholic banquet beverages.

Source: alarabiyaenglish, royal.uk