After his military service, Sultan Qaboos studied local government subjects in England and, after a world tour, returned home to Salalah where he studied Islam and the history of his country. Upon his accession to the throne on 23 July 1970, he moved to Muscat where he declared that the country would no longer be known as 'Muscat and Oman', but would be united as the 'Sultanate of Oman'. Since this time, Sultan Qaboos has faced many obstacles, not least than when he came to power. Oman today has an excellent health service, a clear road network and many educational establishments for girls and boys, from nursery levels, to university degrees. His Majesty is a renowned peacemaker and this fact was acknowledged in 1998 when he was presented with the International Peace Award by the National Council on US-Arab relations.
Festivities take place all over the country and are lavish displays in the Sultan's honour.