His Highness Sayyid Dr. Kamil Fahad Al Said was honored with the "Ordine della Stella d’Italia" (Order of the Star of Italy), Knighthood as a Knight (Cavaliere) on May 26, 2024. The ceremony was presided over by Pierluigi D’Elia, Ambassador of the Republic of Italy to the Sultanate of Oman.
The President of the Republic of Italy serves as the Patron of the Order of the Star of Italy. This prestigious order is awarded to expatriates and foreigners who have made exceptional contributions to preserving and promoting Italy's national prestige, as well as enhancing bilateral relations between Italy and other countries.
His Highness Sayyid Dr. Kamil Fahad Al Said received this esteemed recognition for his significant efforts in strengthening cultural ties between the Republic of Italy and the Sultanate of Oman through his dedicated work at the Royal Opera House Muscat since 2006.
During the ceremony, His Highness Dr. Kamil Al Said expressed that the conferment of the Order of the Star of Italy symbolizes not only personal achievement but also the invaluable importance of friendship in the international arena and the successful collaboration between Italy and Oman. He highlighted that His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik continues to uphold the noble ideals set forth by the late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said for the Royal Opera House Muscat, which has become a beacon of these ideals through its commitment to excellence in programming and fostering bonds of friendship and understanding.
Since its grand opening in 2011 with Puccini’s Turandot performed by Arena di Verona, the Royal Opera House Muscat has featured a series of acclaimed productions from some of Italy's most renowned opera houses, showcasing a significant aspect of the partnership between Italy and Oman.
The productions showcased a variety of operas, including The Barber of Seville by Teatro San Carlo, L’Elisird’Amore by Teatro La Fenice, and Le Nozze di Figaro by Accademia Teatro alla Scala. The collaboration between the two countries extended to the creation of three original co-productions: Bizet’s Lakmé, as well as Verdi’s La Traviata and Rigoletto.
These joint artistic endeavors have not only enriched Oman's cultural landscape but also strengthened the friendly bilateral ties between the two nations.
In looking towards the future, His Highness emphasized the importance of deepening the bonds between the two countries, drawing from their shared experiences and the universal language of music. Together, they aim to create a legacy of understanding and cultural enrichment that transcends borders and resonates through time.
The ambassador commended the role of His Highness Sayyid Dr. Kamil Fahad Mahmood Al Said in enhancing cultural relations between Italy and Oman through the Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM). Specifically, he highlighted His Highness's efforts in promoting performances, exhibitions, and initiatives related to the tradition of Italian Opera and music in Oman, as well as supporting Omani cultural initiatives such as participation in the Venice Art Biennale.