His Highness Sayyid Dr. Kamil Fahad Al Said was recently honored with the “Ordine della Stella d’Italia” (Order of the Star of Italy), Knighthood with the rank of Knight (Cavaliere), during a ceremony on 26 May 2024 in Muscat. The prestigious award was conferred by Pierluigi D’Elia, Ambassador of the Republic of Italy to the Sultanate of Oman, on behalf of the President of Italy. The Order of the Star of Italy is typically bestowed upon expatriates and foreigners who have made significant contributions to the promotion of Italy’s national prestige and the strengthening of bilateral relations between Italy and other countries.
His Highness Sayyid Dr. Kamil Fahad Al Said received this honor in recognition of his dedicated efforts in strengthening cultural relations between Italy and Oman through his work with the Royal Opera House Muscat since 2006. In his speech during the ceremony, he expressed gratitude for the award, emphasizing the importance of friendship in the international arena and the collaboration between Italy and Oman. His Highness highlighted the commitment of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to continue the vision of Late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said for the Royal Opera House Muscat, which has become a symbol of excellence in programming and fostering friendship and understanding.
Since its grand inauguration in 2011 with Puccini’s Turandot performed by Arena di Verona, the Royal Opera House Muscat has hosted a series of acclaimed productions from Italy’s prestigious opera houses. Productions like The Barber of Seville, L’Elisir d’Amore, and Le Nozze di Figaro have been staged at the Royal Opera House Muscat, in addition to original co-productions such as Bizet’s Lakmé and Verdi’s La Traviata and Rigoletto. These collaborative efforts have not only enriched the cultural landscape of Oman but also strengthened the friendly bilateral ties between Italy and Oman through the universal language of music.
Looking ahead, His Highness emphasized the importance of continuing to deepen the bonds between Italy and Oman, drawing from their shared experiences and the universal language of music. He emphasized building a legacy of understanding and cultural enrichment that transcends borders and resonates across time. The ambassador praised the role of His Highness in strengthening cultural relations between Italy and Oman through the Royal Opera House Muscat, promoting performances, exhibitions, and initiatives related to the tradition of Italian Opera and music in the Sultanate.
In conclusion, the conferral of the Order of the Star of Italy upon His Highness Sayyid Dr. Kamil Fahad Al Said is a testament to his significant contributions to the cultural relations between Italy and Oman. Through his work with the Royal Opera House Muscat, he has played a vital role in promoting the rich tradition of Italian Opera and music in Oman, while also supporting Omani cultural initiatives. This prestigious honor not only recognizes his efforts but also strengthens the bonds of friendship and understanding between Italy and Oman through the universal language of music.