Oman Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Oman, state on the eastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula; 212 450 km², 4.8 million residents (2019).Oman borders on the northwest to the United Arab Emirates, on the west to Saudi Arabia and on the southwest to Yemen, and on the north coast to the Gulf of Oman and in the east to the Indian Ocean. Also included is the Oman enclave Ruus al-Jibal at the far end of the Musandam Peninsula between the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf. The capital is Muscat (1.3 million residents in the metropolitan area, 2015).

Country facts

Salṭanat ˙Umān / Sultanate of Oman
Country abbreviation: OM
Area: 212 450 km²
Population (2019): 4.8 million residents
Capital: Nutmeg
Main languages: Arabic
State: Sultanate
Head of State and Head of Government: Haitham bin Tariq al-Said (Sultan)
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 16,419
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 15,110
Currency unit: 1 rial = 1 000 baisa
Currency code: OMR
Country number (telephony): 968
Internet domain name: about
Time difference compared to Sweden: +3
National Day: November 18 (Sultan’s Birthday)

Nature

Land use: agricultural land (0.3%), other (99.7%)
Highest mountain: Jabal al-Akhdar (3,018 m asl)

Population

Population density (2019): 22 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 1.8%; birth number 20 ‰, death number 2 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (22%), 15-64 (75%), 65- (3%)
Average life expectancy (2019): men 76 years, women 80 years
Infant mortality (2019): 9 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 7 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.821 (place 48 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 85%
Most populous cities (2015): Muscat (1.3 million residents in the metropolitan area), Salala (310 900 residents)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (2%), industry (46%), service (52%)
Exports of goods (2017): US $ 103,300 million
Main export products: oil, natural gas, fish
Main exporting countries: China, United Arab Emirates, South Korea
Imports of goods (2017): US $ 24,120 million
Main import products: machinery, transport, food
Main Importing Countries: United Arab Emirates, USA, Brazil
Railway network: nothing in operation

Geography of Oman

Location and Borders

Oman is located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, bordered by the United Arab Emirates to the northwest, Saudi Arabia to the west, and Yemen to the southwest. It has a long coastline along the Arabian Sea to the southeast and the Gulf of Oman to the northeast, making it a key player in the maritime trade routes of the region. Oman’s geographic location places it at the crossroads of the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, and it has historically been a center for trade, exploration, and cultural exchange.

The country has a strategic position controlling access to the Strait of Hormuz, which connects the Arabian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. This vital waterway is one of the world’s busiest oil shipping routes, enhancing Oman’s geopolitical importance. Oman also shares maritime boundaries with Iran to the north across the Strait of Hormuz, making it a key figure in the region’s economic and geopolitical landscape.

Terrain and Landscape

Oman is characterized by a diverse landscape that includes mountains, deserts, and coastal plains. The Al Hajar mountain range runs parallel to the northern coast, creating a dramatic backdrop to the country’s coastal cities like Muscat, the capital. These mountains, with peaks rising to over 3,000 meters (9,800 feet), are a major feature of Oman’s topography and divide the coastal regions from the interior. The rugged terrain has historically shaped the development of settlements and the movement of people, with many towns situated in valleys and oasis areas.

To the south of the mountains lies the desert region, including the vast Rub’ al Khali (Empty Quarter) desert, the largest continuous sand desert in the world. The desert region, known for its harsh and arid climate, contrasts with the fertile coastal plains and valleys. The region has few inhabitants but is important for Oman’s traditional Bedouin culture. The eastern coast, especially in the region of Dhofar, is characterized by lush greenery, with monsoon rains bringing seasonal life to the otherwise arid region.

Oman also boasts several natural harbors along its coastline, including the bustling port city of Salalah in the south. These ports have historically been important for Oman’s maritime trade and remain significant for its economy today.

Natural Resources

Oman has a wealth of natural resources that have been critical to its economic development. The country is known for its oil and natural gas reserves, which have driven its economy for several decades. Oman’s oil production is relatively modest compared to its neighbors, but it has still played a key role in the country’s prosperity. Oman has diversified its oil production, emphasizing higher-quality oil grades that command higher prices on the international market.

In addition to oil, Oman is rich in natural gas, which is used for domestic consumption and industrial purposes. Oman also has significant mineral resources, including limestone, gypsum, and copper, although mining remains a smaller sector compared to oil and gas.

The country’s fertile land, particularly in the interior and coastal areas, is another valuable resource. While Oman has limited agricultural production due to its dry climate, the country is known for its cultivation of dates, vegetables, and fruits, particularly in areas where irrigation from underground aquifers is available. Oman’s fisheries, supported by its long coastline, are also an important economic resource.

Climate of Oman

General Climate Zones

Oman’s climate is characterized by its arid and semi-arid conditions, with three main climatic zones: coastal, interior, and mountainous. The climate is influenced by the country’s proximity to the Arabian Sea, the Gulf of Oman, and the vast desert landscapes.

Coastal Climate: Oman’s coastal areas, especially in the capital Muscat and the surrounding region, experience a hot desert climate with high humidity levels. The summer months (from May to September) are extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F), coupled with high humidity from the Arabian Sea. The coastal areas tend to have milder winters with average temperatures around 18°C (64°F). This zone is also subject to the effects of the southwest monsoon, particularly in Dhofar, bringing cooler weather and rain during the monsoon season.
Interior Climate: The interior of Oman, which includes cities like Nizwa and Ibri, experiences a much hotter and drier climate, with temperatures soaring above 40°C (104°F) in summer. The region is characterized by dry, desert-like conditions, with minimal rainfall throughout the year. Winter temperatures can be cooler, especially at higher elevations, but are still relatively mild compared to the coastal zones.
Mountainous Climate: The high-altitude areas of Oman, particularly in the Al Hajar mountains, have a more temperate climate. These regions enjoy cooler temperatures and receive rainfall, especially during the winter months. The climate here is more suitable for agriculture, and the mountains serve as a key area for cultivation and agriculture, including the growing of fruits like pomegranates and dates.

Temperature and Weather Patterns

Oman experiences extreme temperature variations throughout the year, particularly between the summer and winter seasons. Summer temperatures, especially in the interior and desert regions, can easily exceed 45°C (113°F), with intense heatwaves. In contrast, the coastal cities experience higher humidity, making the heat feel more oppressive.

Winter temperatures are much milder, with average highs ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 25°C (77°F), and colder nights in the mountains and desert. While rainfall is generally low throughout the country, some areas, particularly in Dhofar, receive significant rainfall during the southwest monsoon from June to September, which transforms the region into a lush green landscape for a brief period each year.

Environmental Issues

Oman faces several environmental challenges, including water scarcity, desertification, and the effects of climate change. Water scarcity is perhaps the most pressing issue, as Oman’s limited freshwater resources are primarily dependent on desalination and groundwater. The country is increasingly investing in desalination plants and water management technologies to meet domestic and industrial demand.

The encroachment of desertification, driven by both natural processes and human activity, also threatens the agricultural sector. Overgrazing, deforestation, and unsustainable farming practices have exacerbated the spread of desert-like conditions in some regions.

Climate change is expected to exacerbate Oman’s environmental challenges, particularly with regard to rising temperatures and sea levels. The country’s coastal areas are vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including more intense and frequent monsoons, changes in rainfall patterns, and rising sea levels that could affect the coastal infrastructure and agricultural land.

People of Oman

Ethnic Composition

The majority of Oman’s population is Arab, though the country is home to a variety of ethnic groups, reflecting Oman’s long history of trade and migration. The Omani population is primarily of Arab descent, with ethnic groups such as the Bani Yas and Al Bu Said tribes having deep roots in the country’s history. There are also significant populations of ethnic groups from East Africa, India, and Persia, who have been part of Oman’s vibrant maritime trade history.

There is also a significant expatriate population in Oman, primarily from countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the Philippines. These expatriates make up a large portion of the labor force, particularly in construction, healthcare, and the service industry.

Language and Religion

Arabic is the official language of Oman and is widely spoken by the majority of the population. Omani Arabic is the primary dialect, though English is also commonly used, particularly in business and government. Other languages spoken in Oman include Urdu, Hindi, and various regional languages due to the significant expatriate communities.

Islam is the dominant religion in Oman, with the majority of Omanis adhering to the Ibadi sect of Islam, which is unique to Oman. Ibadism, known for its moderate and tolerant interpretation of Islam, plays a significant role in Oman’s national identity and political structure. There are also small communities of Shia and Sunni Muslims, though they make up a minority of the population.

Oman is known for its religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence between different sects of Islam and other religious communities. There are small Christian, Hindu, and Buddhist communities in Oman, most of whom are expatriates, and the government ensures that religious practices can be observed freely.

Population and Demographics

Oman’s population is estimated at around 5 million people. The population is relatively young, with a median age of around 30 years. This youth-driven demographic presents both opportunities and challenges for the country’s economy, education system, and labor market.

The majority of the population lives in urban areas, particularly in Muscat, the capital, and other major cities like Salalah, Sohar, and Nizwa. While urbanization is increasing, a significant portion of the population still resides in rural areas, particularly in the interior and mountainous regions of the country. The rural population is often involved in agriculture, fishing, and traditional crafts.

The expatriate population, which comprises a significant portion of the workforce, has grown due to Oman’s open-door policy on foreign workers. Many expatriates come to Oman for job opportunities, particularly in construction, healthcare, and hospitality sectors.

Economy of Oman

Oil and Natural Gas

Oman’s economy is heavily reliant on oil and natural gas exports, with petroleum and petrochemicals accounting for the majority of government revenue and export earnings. The country has smaller oil reserves compared to some of its Gulf neighbors but has managed to maintain a relatively stable oil production rate through efficient management and exploration. Oman produces a higher quality of oil, and its production is critical to the global oil market, particularly in Asia.

Natural gas is another key sector, and Oman has made significant investments in liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure, which is used both for domestic consumption and export. Oman’s natural gas production supports both the industrial and power sectors, as well as its growing petrochemical industry.

Despite its reliance on oil and gas, Oman has actively worked to diversify its economy to reduce dependence on hydrocarbons. The country is investing in non-oil industries such as manufacturing, tourism, agriculture, and logistics.

Manufacturing and Industry

The manufacturing sector in Oman is gradually expanding, particularly in the fields of petrochemicals, steel, aluminum, cement, and food processing. Oman’s proximity to global trade routes and its strategic ports, including the ports of Salalah and Duqm, have made the country an increasingly important center for international trade and industry.

Oman’s government is heavily investing in industrial infrastructure, aiming to build a diversified and sustainable economy. The Special Economic Zone in Duqm, for example, is a major part of Oman’s industrial expansion plans and is expected to attract both foreign investment and develop a thriving manufacturing sector.

The country’s industrial base also includes shipbuilding, textiles, and the production of construction materials. The government has been making strides to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and increase the value-added industries in its economy.

Agriculture and Fisheries

Oman’s agricultural sector is relatively small but significant in certain areas. The fertile valleys and wadis of the interior produce crops such as dates, vegetables, fruits, and herbs. Farming remains largely subsistence-based, but the government is promoting sustainable agricultural practices and encouraging investment in irrigation technologies to improve productivity.

Fisheries also play a key role in Oman’s economy. The country’s long coastline and access to the Arabian Sea provide abundant fish stocks, including tuna, shrimp, and mackerel. The seafood industry has grown in importance, both for local consumption and export, as Oman continues to invest in its fishing infrastructure.

Services and Tourism

The services sector is a growing part of Oman’s economy, with an emphasis on banking, finance, tourism, and healthcare. Oman has invested heavily in building its tourism infrastructure, promoting its rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and historic sites. Attractions like the forts of Nizwa, the beaches of Salalah, and the deserts of Wahiba Sands draw tourists, with the government implementing policies to increase the tourism sector’s contribution to the economy.

The country’s banking and financial services industry is also expanding, and Oman is becoming a regional hub for business and trade. Oman’s investment in educational and healthcare facilities is driving growth in these sectors as well, attracting expatriates and making the country an increasingly important center for education and medical tourism in the region.

Government of Oman

Political Structure

Oman is an absolute monarchy, with the Sultan serving as both the head of state and head of government. The current Sultan, Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, ascended the throne in 2020 following the death of his cousin, Sultan Qaboos bin Said, who ruled the country for nearly 50 years. Sultan Qaboos was instrumental in modernizing Oman, and his policies of neutrality and diplomacy shaped Oman’s foreign relations.

The Sultan holds vast powers, including control over the country’s foreign policy, defense, and national security. While there is no formal political party system in Oman, the country has a consultative council, the Majlis al-Shura, which serves as an advisory body. The members of this council are elected by the people and advise the Sultan on legislative matters, but the Sultan retains the final decision-making authority.

Oman’s government is known for its stability and pragmatism. The country has pursued a policy of neutrality in regional conflicts, focusing on fostering diplomatic relations with a wide array of international actors.

Political History

Oman’s political history is marked by periods of isolation and reform. For much of the 20th century, Oman was an isolated country, with limited contact with the outside world. Under the rule of Sultan Qaboos, however, Oman underwent significant political and social reforms. Sultan Qaboos, who took the throne in 1970 after a peaceful coup, initiated a series of modernization programs that transformed the country. His rule was characterized by policies aimed at modernizing Oman’s infrastructure, education system, and healthcare while maintaining the country’s distinct cultural heritage.

Oman also pursued a policy of neutrality in international affairs, avoiding entanglements in the regional conflicts that have affected other Gulf states. Oman’s foreign policy focused on balancing relations between different regional and global powers, including the United States, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

Current Political Landscape

Since the passing of Sultan Qaboos, Sultan Haitham has continued many of the policies of his predecessor, including Oman’s commitment to neutrality and economic diversification. The country’s leadership is focused on maintaining stability, attracting foreign investment, and building stronger international partnerships.

However, Oman faces challenges such as unemployment, especially among the youth, and the need to modernize its infrastructure and economy. The government is also working to address the socio-economic impacts of falling oil prices and is focusing on diversifying the economy through the Oman Vision 2040 plan, which emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and job creation across sectors like tourism, technology, and manufacturing.

Culture of Oman

Traditional Arts and Crafts

Oman has a rich cultural heritage shaped by its geographic position, maritime history, and Islamic traditions. The country is known for its traditional handicrafts, including silverwork, pottery, weaving, and date palm basketry. Omani crafts, such as khanjars (daggers), embroidered textiles, and carved woodwork, reflect the country’s history of trade and craftsmanship.

The traditional Omani dress, particularly the dishdasha (for men) and the abaya (for women), remains widely worn in both rural and urban areas. The dress is often embroidered with intricate patterns and is made from locally produced fabrics.

Music and Dance

Music is a central element of Omani culture, with traditional Omani music featuring a mix of rhythmic drumming, stringed instruments, and vocal performances. Music is often performed at weddings, religious ceremonies, and cultural festivals. The razha and al-azwa are traditional Omani dances that feature drumming and chanting, performed by groups of men.

Omani folk music often tells stories of love, war, and the country’s history. The use of the oud, a stringed instrument, is common, and the music is typically accompanied by chanting or poetry.

Cuisine and Traditions

Omani cuisine reflects the country’s cultural influences from the Arabian Peninsula, Persia, India, and East Africa. Key ingredients include rice, meat, fish, dates, and spices. Dishes like shuwa (slow-cooked lamb), majboos (rice with meat and vegetables), and harees (a wheat and meat dish) are popular across Oman. Omani coffee, spiced with cardamom, is an important part of hospitality and social life, often served in small cups to guests.

Dates are another staple of the Omani diet, used in both savory dishes and desserts. The country’s cuisine is heavily influenced by the availability of local ingredients, with seafood being particularly important in coastal regions.

Festivals and Holidays

Oman celebrates numerous religious and cultural festivals, with Islamic holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha being of major significance. The annual Muscat Festival celebrates Omani culture, music, art, and food, drawing both locals and tourists. Other important holidays include the Sultan’s birthday and National Day, when Omanis celebrate their heritage and the legacy of Sultan Qaboos.

Religious festivals such as Ramadan and the Hajj pilgrimage are observed with great devotion, with Omani families gathering for communal meals and prayers. These festivals play an essential role in reinforcing social ties and maintaining Oman’s traditional values of hospitality and family.

History of Oman

Early History and Islamic Period

Oman has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The region has been home to several ancient civilizations, including the Magan civilization, known for its trade in copper and its role in the early maritime activities in the Arabian Sea. Oman’s strategic location along the Arabian Peninsula made it a key center for trade and cultural exchange between East Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and Persia.

Islam spread to Oman in the 7th century, and the country became a center of Islamic learning and culture. The Ibadi sect of Islam, which is unique to Oman, was established as the dominant religious and political force. Oman’s historical legacy of independence and governance by local tribes continues to be an integral part of its national identity.

Portuguese and Persian Influence

In the 16th century, Oman was occupied by the Portuguese, who sought to control the trade routes in the Arabian Gulf and Indian Ocean. The Portuguese rule, however, was met with resistance from Omani tribes, and in 1650, the Omanis successfully expelled the Portuguese from their territories.

Following the expulsion of the Portuguese, Oman rose to prominence as a maritime power, establishing a vast empire that included parts of East Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and the Persian Gulf. The Omani empire was at its height in the 18th century, with Oman controlling important trade routes and establishing a prosperous economy through its maritime activities.

Modern History and Sultanate of Oman

Oman’s modern history is marked by the rule of Sultan Qaboos bin Said, who ascended to the throne in 1970. Under his leadership, Oman underwent significant modernization, with improvements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Sultan Qaboos established a policy of neutrality in foreign affairs, which allowed Oman to maintain positive relations with neighboring countries, including Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

After Sultan Qaboos’ death in 2020, his cousin, Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, assumed the throne. Sultan Haitham continues to pursue many of the policies initiated by his predecessor, focusing on economic diversification, political stability, and social development while maintaining Oman’s unique role in regional diplomacy.

Oman’s rich cultural heritage, strategic location, and stable political environment continue to make it an important player in the Gulf region, despite the challenges posed by regional instability and economic diversification.