Interior showing the archways of Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque.

Al-Alam Palace is one of the most famous landmarks in Oman

Oman is a country on the Arabian Peninsula. Tourism in Oman has grown considerably recently, and it is expected to be one of the largest industries in the nation.^[1]

Oman has one of the most diverse environments in the Middle East with various tourist attractions and it's particularly well known for Cultural tourism.^[2] The capital of Oman has been named the Second Best City to visit in the world in 2012 by the travel guide publisher Lonely Planet.^[3] Muscat also was chosen as the Capital of Arab Tourism of 2012.^[4]

Visa[link]

A single entry visa is issued at the point of entry and is valid for one month. A fine of $4 per day is charged for an overstay beyond the validity of the visa. There are also an express visa, a multiple entry visa and a common visa with Dubai and Qatar, and GCC resident visa.

Attractions[link]

Beaches[link]

Qurum Beach in Muscat

Seeb Beach

Oman is lined with the most amazing beaches. The beaches are some of the best in the gulf. Activity for beach visitors include sunning, swimming,Kitesurfing, diving, snorkeling, boating, surfing, beach combing and shell collecting.

'The Intercon Beach' faces Muscat Intercontinental Hotel and extends two km to Crowne Plaza hotel. This beach is ideal for family outings, morning walks or a jog in evening. The beach is lined with restaurants, snack bars and cafes. The Qurum beach allows entrance barbecuing. At Qantab beach local fishermen will offer to take you fishing or for a boat ride and at Bandar Jissah beach the view of the rocky coastline is just fabulous. The drive to Yitti beach through hilly terrain will lead to a fishing village with winding dirt track that lead to the beach through a long shallow cove. At the beach fishermen are busy at work but there is still ample room for any kind of beach activity. You can wade in the shallows or investigate the shell encrusted outcrops along the shore.

The popular Al Sawadi Beach Resort is about an hour west from Muscat. The resort offers dives, snorkeling, speedboat rides, water scooters, temperature controlled swimming pool and Jacuzzi. The coast beyond Quriyat can be reached by driving southeast on a four wheel drive. There are a variety of beaches between rocky outcrop, the most prominent being Mokallah (also known as White Beach). This spot is very popular for overnight camping on the shore and it is excellent for snorkeling.

Kitesurfing in Muscat is Now becoming very popular due to the daily sea breeze effect and large white sanded beaches and fanastic coastlines Oman has to offer. Kitesurfing lessons are given on alzaiba beach in the city.

Kite Surfing[link]

Oman offers world class kitesurfing Conditions, due to the daily sea breeze effect. Muscat city offers clean safe conditions for learning to kitesurf. Alzaiba Beach is the hot spot for kite surfing and kitesurfing lessons. There are only One Kite school located within the heart of Muscat city. The schools here specializing in kite surfing services and offer a complete range of kitesurf courses, kite surfing equipment, lessson activities plans. The kite school has qualified International Kitesurfing Instructors. Kite surf qualification(IKO)is issued for every student.

Diving[link]

With Oman's long coastline and clean unpolluted waters, there is a wealth of underwater flora, marine life and diving thrills awaiting the underwater explorer. Several companies specializing in diving services offer a complete range of diving courses, diving equipment and activities. The diving available in Oman provides adventure and enjoyment with dramatic wall drop-offs to scenic coral lined fjords. Sea life is abundant with a variety of hard and soft corals. Oman enjoys an average visibility of 20–30 meters. Night dives are popular and divers are often astounded by the amount of phosphorescence found. Several dive sites encircle Muscat and (PADI instruction)is available .

Turtle, dolphin and bird watching[link]

The turtle reserve is located at Ras al-Jinz near Sur

Several species of turtles living for over 100 years swim the length and breadth of the Indian Ocean and return every year to lay their eggs on the beaches of Ras al Hadd, Ras Al Junayz and Masirah island.

Dolphins frequent the seas of the Oman on a regular basis and can be seen in close proximity to the coast. Whales can also be found swimming in the waters of Oman, albeit less frequently, in particular the Humpback and the Orca. Fahal Island is a good site to spot dolphins in hundreds roaming around or following the tuna. Spinner, Common and some Bottlenose dolphins are the main types. Orcas playing round the island have also been reported. Trips are normally carried out using traditional Omani fishing boats in early morning and at sunset.

Oman is increasingly becoming a significant destination for bird watching. More than 460 different bird species have been recorded in Oman, out of which, 80 species have been classified as resident, while the rest are migrant and seasonal species. Oman offers a unique opportunity to watch birds from Europe, Africa and Asia in one spot during their annual migrations in Spring and Autumn. These migratory periods coincide with the cooler weather between October and April. Some of the common resident species one expects to see within or around Muscat include: Herons (Striated and Western Reef), Ospreys, Swift Term, Laughing Doves, Egyptian Vultures, and Indian Roller. Common Migrant and seasonal species include: Cattle Egret, Little Stint, Greater Flamingo, Caspian Gull, Spotted Flycatcher, Grey Heron, Dunlin, Sandwich Tern, Red and Green shanks, Ruff and White Wagtail.

There is a massive array of bird watching sites in other parts of the country. Eagles are popular in Musandam. Arabian Oryx Sanctuary in Al-Wusta Region provides an excellent opportunity to watch desert species, notably Spotted Sand Grouse, Golden Eagle and Houbara Bustard. Masirah Island is the home of thousands of birds especially in the winter such as Greater Flamingo, Seagulls, Terns and Herons. Dhofar with its diverse terrain and monsoon rains is a true paradise for birds particularly African species.

Whale watching[link]

Whales visit the shores beaches of the Sultanate at irregular intervals, especially in Ash Sharqiyah and Al Wusta regions, in addition to Dhofar Governorate. The most famous types of whales that visit Oman are: Bryde’s Whales or Tropical Whales, Blue Whales, Humpback Whales, Sperm Whales, Dwarf Sperm Whales, Cuvier's Beaked Whale, Pygmy Killer Whales, Killer Whales, Melon-Headed Whales and False Killer Whale. Note that dolphins that are often seen in Oman sea belong to the whale species.

Desert safari[link]

Wahiba Sands

The most renowned Omani desert is Sharqiyah Sands (formerly Wahiba Sands) with its dunes rising to nearly 200 meters. Witnessing sun setting is an inspiring event in itself but once the sun has drifted below the dunes a truly spectacular blanket of stars is revealed. Desert adventures in Oman can be by camelback or four-wheel drives. Activities generally include sleeping out in Barsti huts, Omani BBQ under the stars, camel riding and visiting the Bedouins. No desert tour would be complete without jumping on-board a sand board. As with snow boarding, sand boarding is becoming a loved sport.

Caving[link]

Oman abounds with many caves of different sizes, topography and ruggedness, some of which can be accessed with a group of amateurs, like Muqal Cave in Wadi Bani Khalid in Ash Sharqiyah region, while others need considerable effort, training, experience and specialized equipment. The most famous cave in Oman is Al-Hoota cave. It's located at the foot of Jebel Shams of Al Hamra. It has one of the largest cave systems in the world.^[5]

The limestone rich sedimentary deposits of Oman's mountains offers some of the most exhilarating cave adventures in the world. There are caves to suit all adventurer's tastes from simple to complex. Oman is home of the world's second largest cave, Majlis Al Jinn (Genies meeting place) with a volume of 4m cubic meters. Be sure to bring long rope as the entrance to the cave is 160 meter free descent. Al Hotah Cave near Al Hamra features an underground cavern and unique underground lake system. Other caves of interest are Moqul Cave in Wadi Bani Khalid and the mostly unexplored Tiq Cave in Dhofar.

Markets[link]

Omani Souqs (Markets) are preferable locations to purchase handicrafts and are always bustling with tourists. Omani markets are characterized by their diversity. Old markets are full of handicrafts like silver, gold, textiles and masterpieces produced by other Omani industries like daggers and coexist with modern shopping malls and other shopping centres that contain everything the visitor is looking for at the best prices.

As for the traditional markets in Oman, the morning hours are the best time for shopping. There are Souqs in every Omani town. The most famous amongst these are the Ruwi and Muttrah Souq. Shoppers can even get their hands on old Arabian muskets at these souqs.

Trekking and rock climbing[link]

Rock climbing enthusiasts of all levels will find plenty to keep them busy as routes of all grades are available. Rugged mountains, steep cliffs overlooking breathtaking sceneries, rouged paths, deep canyons and towering cliffs present an enigmatic challenge. The rocky towers of Wadi Ghool, scales to a height of 300 meters and the gorgeous façade of Jabal Mishfat has climbs from 120 to 500 meters. Abal Misht remains the model location due to its rocky façade that extends roughly for 6 km and rises to 850 m. The book "Rock Climbing in Oman" suggest some of the best climbs in Oman.

From intimidating deserts to rugged mountains, serene beaches and tranquil wadis; Oman's landscape offers some exciting opportunities for adventure. Avid trekkers will enjoy the walks through trails over mountains and into canyons, some which have running water all the year round. At the village of Mazara you will find rocky tracks fording the wadi, crystal clear pools of water ideal for a swim. You can hike 13 km into the canyon clear through the other side. Heading out of Mazara on the track to the coast will take you to unusual limestone formations and a track that leads to another scenic area of Wadis Arbien and Suwaih. Both of these Wadis have running water with spots ideal for picnicking and swimming. If you enjoy narrow slot canyons with sheer faces and crystalline pools of water, Wadi Shab, Snake Canyon and Wadi Hajir have just what you are looking for. The book "Adventure Trekking in Oman" covers a number of suitable routes. Oman Tourism Portal will soon make some trekking maps available online.

Forts[link]

Nakhal Fort

Nearly every Omani city and town has it own fort. Most of them were built or had major expansions during Al-Yarubi dynasty rule of Oman in between 1624 and 1744. They represent the fine Omani architecture and prosperity at that time. In times of war and with high and thick walls, their purpose was as a refuge for the people and a last line of defense for the town. Forts were prepared to withstand long siege with water wells, food storing capacity and secret tunnels ending many kilometers away from the walls of the fort. In times of peace they served as a centre of governance, a place for education and a social interaction point.

The list is long but here are some of the well-known names: Al-Jalali Fort, Al-Mirani Fort, Nakhal Fort, Rustaq Fort, Sohar Fort, Nizwa Fort, Bahla Fort, Qurayat Fort, Khasab Fort, Al-Hellah Fort, Al-Khandaq Fort, As-Suwaiq Fort, Barka Fort, Bait An-Nuaman, Al-Hazm Fort, Ibri Fort, Bait Ar-Radaidah, Jibrin Fort, Al-Muntarib Fort, As-Sunaisilah Fort, Bilad Sur Fort, Ras al-Hadd Fort, Mirbat Fort, Sadah Fort and Taqa Fort.

World Heritage Sites[link]

The UNESCO through its International Heritage Preserve Programme Administration, aim to categorise all significant heritage sites worldwide.

Bahla Fort[link]

Bahla Fort

Bahla Fort, Bahla Fort lies in Bahla State in Dakiliya region. Since 1987, its name has been included in the World Heritage Sites List. Bahla Fort includes: Bahla Oasis with its traditional souks, old alleys, ancient mosques and its wall that extends over a distance of approximately 13 kilometres and whose construction dates back to the pre-Islamic era. Originally, Bahla Fort was built in the third millennium BC. The length of its South façade is about 112 metres, while its eastern façade is about 114 metres. It is evident that Bahla Wall that extends over a distance of 12 kilometres, with its terraces, apertures for opening fire and guards houses had been designed for defence purposes.

Ancient settlements and tombs[link]

The graves at Al Ayn in Oman

The third millennium (BC) settlement and tombs in Bat, the Al-Khatm and Al-Ain locations in Adh-Dhahira region, Bat Tombs historical sites are located in Bat, Al Khutum and Al Ayn in Ad Dhahirah region in Ibri Governorate. They are considered one of the archaeological and historical sites that date back to the third century BC and are located to the east of Ibri. In 1988, Bat Tombs was the second site to be included in the World Heritage list in Oman. In the southern part, the site is a collection of graves built on the lines of those found in Um AnNar, while in the northern part, the graves look like beehives and date back to the third millennium BC. The architecture is similar to the tombs built in the Hafit period. Another cemetery containing 100 tombs built of stone was also discovered, where the evolution from the beehive style to cemeteries built during Um AnNar period is apparent. While the beehive cemetery contained between two to five tombs, Um AnNar cemeteries were mass graves. A similar cemetery of this style was discovered containing 30 burial chambers. The historic significance of the Bat site is that it is located at the crossroads of an ancient trade route. Caravans loaded with goods heading to other nearby destinations passed through Bat. Included with the Bat settlement in the World Heritage List are two other sites: Al Khutum “Al Wahrah” and Wadi Al Ayn Tombs.

Frankincense Route[link]

Frankincense trees in Dhofar in souther Oman

The luban (frankincense) route in Dhofar. The route comprises the ancient cities of Al-Blaid and Shasr, Khuwr Rori, and Wadi Dooka. These locations collectively contributed to the flourishing of frankincense trade for many centuries.

The frankincense trees in Wadi Dukah, the Al Shisur Oases and the ports of Khawr Ruri and Khawr Al Baleed have contributed to the prosperity of the frankincense trade in the region for several centuries. It was one of the most active trades in the Middle Ages and earlier.

The Frankincense Route contains a number of sites where the process of manufacturing and exporting of frankincense took place. Some of the frankincense trails incorporated in the World Heritage List in 2000 are:

• Frankincense Land Museum: The Land of Frankincense Museum is considered one of the most prominent historical museums in Oman read more..
• Al Balid City: dates back to before 2000 BC. Some archaeological research confirms that the city's prosperity dates back to the Iron Age read more...
• Khawr Al Baleed: This lagoon takes its name from the ancient city which lies on the banks of this lagoon. The lagoon flanks the city on the east and north. read more...
• Khawr Ruri (Samhram City): Khawr Ruri is the largest reserve in the Governorate of Dhofar. It is considered the most attractive to tourists as it contains Khawr Ruri port, read more...
• Shisur / Awbar: The ruins of Awbar lie in Dhofar Governorate. This city remained lost for centuries and was considered one of the mysterious archaeological secrets read more...
• Wadi Dukah: Wadi Dukah lies in Najd region on the northern slopes of Dhofar Governorate, located approximately 25 kilometres north of the city of Salalah. Wadi Dukah is a model valley of the areas where the frankincense trees grow.

Falajs[link]

A typical Omani falaj

Five falajs. In July 2006, the World Heritage Committee endorsed the inclusion of the five Omani falajs in the World Heritage List to express the international standing of this unique water system that represents a cultural legacy created by the Omanis over 2,000 years ago, being the oldest irrigation structure in the region. It is still the major source of irrigation in the Sultanate and a water source that can be relied on in most Omani cities and villages. It is rare to find anything like these falajs elsewhere in the world. They are:

• Falaj Daris is one of the largest falaj in Oman and lies in Wilayat Nizwa in A'Dakhiliyah Region. It is a Dawoodi Falaj. It consists of two branches: The “Big Branch” running for a length of 1,700 metres, and the "Small Branch” with a length of 1,900 metres. Falaj Daris stems from Wadi Al Abyad (White Valley). A lot of this State’s residents depend on Falaj Daris to water their crops that extend from Shariat Al Falaj in Daris to the market area.
• Falaj Al Khatmayn: Falaj Al Khatmayn lies in Birkat Al Mawz village in Wilayat Nizwa in A'Dakhiliyah Region. It is a Dawoodi Falaj and is fed by Wadi Al Muaydin that flows heavily during rainfall. Its total length is about 2,450 metres. It is a branch of the Dawoodi falaj that flows plentifully during heavy rainfall. Its overall length is about 2,450 metres. Falaj Al Khatmayn is characterized by its acute precision in the distribution of falaj water and continuous flow throughout the year. What distinguishes this Falaj is that its course runs through Bayt Ar Rudaydah, one of the famous castles in Oman.
• Falaj Al Malaki: Falaj Al Malaki is located in Wilayat Izki in A'Dakhiliyah Region. and is one of the oldest falaj in the Sultanate. Falaj Al Malaki is considered one of the largest Dawoodi Falaj as it has 17 branches that feed the falaj.
• Falaj Al Muyassar: Falaj Al Muyassar is one of the most important falajs in Wilayat Ar Rustaq in Al Batinah Region. It is characterized by its deep waterway and the large number of its branches
• Falaj Al Jaylah: Falaj Al Jaylah is an Ayni Falaj. It lies in Al Jaylah town in Sur in A'Sharqiyah Region(Eastern Region) and is fed by Wadi AlShab. Feeding from Wadi Shab, this falaj is the town’s main water source. The length of its open channels that starts from the fountainhead and ends and at the water basin is 161 metres. Falaj Al Jaylah water is used for irrigation. This falaj has been included in the World Heritage List.

Horse and camel racing[link]

Between the months of September and June equestrian races organised by Oman Equestrian Federation are held in various towns. The Royal Stables in Seeb is a good spot to observe equestrian events staged for public and private gatherings. Al Kamil/Al Wafi region of the country has the best breeders and trainers. Horse Races are often opened by the art of Al-Taghrood (chanting) enticing riders and horses. This act signifies both courage and chivalry and lauds the virtues of the horses.

Omani people take pride and full care in raising their camels implementing strict methods of taming and nourishment. Camels bred for racing undergo intensive training in order to compete at national and international levels. Camels are given names reflecting their respective abilities and endurance. A good racing camel can fetch a price of R.O. 30,000 (US $ 77,400). Jockeys are drafted for their size (or lack thereof) and some make their professional debuts around five years old. Camels participate in long distance races held on specially built race tracks. Crowd enthusiasm is high on these occasions. The races are normally held on public holidays and during National Day celebrations. As with Horse Races, camel races are arranged by OEF. Some Regions organize their own local races.

Events[link]

Muscat Festival[link]

One of the traditional activities at Muscat Festival

Muscat Festival is held annually between January and February. With a large Heritage Village on-site, visitors can experience the traditional Omani lifestyle, through various artistic and cultural activities held daily. As the Festival comes to town, so too does the Circus as well as a wide range of musical stars, both local and international. The Festival also hosts a vast array of international exhibitors. Furthermore, local and foreign troupes engage audience with their folklore dances and amusement parks charm the children.

Salalah Festival[link]

During the Khareef (Monsoon) the mountains around Salalah are rainsoaked and shrouded in fog

Salalah Festival takes place in the months of July and August. As the temperature soars in the North of Oman and the rest of the Gulf states, the Khareef season sweeps over the Southern part of Oman dropping temperature to and below 23°C (73 °F). Salalah in Dhofar gears up to take over the role as the Oman top tourist destination. The monsoon rains nourish the region of Dhofar and fog hangs over the land, resulting in some of the most stunning natural scenery. The festival rolls into town with plenty of family fun in the form of cultural, traditional and modern artistic shows. This combination of idyllic weather, the green land and man-made celebrations make visitors experience something truly unique.

Cultural Theatre Program[link]

The Empty Quarter desert in Al Wusta Region

Every year, during the period from December to the end of March, the Ministry of Tourism organises a number of cultural evenings at the ancient Al Flayj Castle Theatre, hosting popular groups from around the world.

The Ministry also organises similar evenings in Al Morooj Theatre, Salalah, Dhofar Governorate.

Dubai–Muscat Offshore Sailing Race[link]

Dubai–Muscat Regatta takes place every January. Boats set sail from Dubai passing through the Straits of Hormuz before heading down towards Muscat, ending their quest at the Bandar Al-Rawdah Marina.

Sinbad Classic[link]

An international deep sea fishing contest, the Sinbad Classic is one of the IGFA World Championships qualifying rounds taking place each April with participants coming from all across the globe to fish in the event. The 2008 event runs from 27–29 March and in contrast to previous years is taking a firm stance on sustainable development within the sports industry. For more information on the Sinbad Classic go to www.sinbadclassic.com

Oman Adventures[link]

This event which is held annually in November features teams of two individuals each; one runs while the other cycles. Held over a five-day period, with each day constituting a one-day phase, the race starts in the early hours of the morning and concludes in the evening, with a one-off special night phase. The challengers face a systematically organised course parts of which necessitate the carrying of the bicycle on the shoulders. Each team is entirely responsible for the preparation and coordination of their own food and water supply, in addition to any spare parts needed for their bicycles.

Oman Intl. Rally[link]

Oman International Rally; held annually in March, is one of the few rallies that constitute the Middle East Rally Championship.

Oman Desert Express[link]

An annual event held in February, the Oman Desert Express Rally is of great interest to adventurers seeking the ultimate challenge of nature.

Bidiyah Challenge[link]

Held every February in the town of Bidiya in Sharqiyah Region. Recently introduced to the Gulf Region’s sporting calendar, the aim of the race is to scale sand dunes in the least possible time.

Oman World Fireworks Championship 2010[link]

The Oman World Fireworks Championship 2010 was one of the largest and most spectacular fireworks competition in the world. It was part of the 40th National Day Celebrations of the Sultanate of Oman, and it considered to be the largest fireworks event ever held in the Middle East. Coming from Europe, Asia, Australasia and the Americas, six of the world's very best pyrotechnic production companies had put their skills, artistry and technological know-how to the test, as they battle it out for the coveted Champion's Trophy. The Winner's Trophy was awarded to Lacroix-Ruggieri of France, with second place tied between Panzera of Italy and Vulcan of China.

Tour of Oman[link]

This cross-country cycling event is now held annually. Its stated goals are to promote cycling as a sport in Oman; to put Oman on the world stage as an attractive tourist destination; and stimulate trade and economic activity within the country.^[6]

Hotels[link]

Almost all International Hotel Chains have opened up their outlets in Oman seeing the Sultanate's vast tourism potential. Grand Hyatt, Crowne Plaza, Intercontinental, Shangri-La, Chedi, Ramada, Sheraton and Golden Tulip Hospitality Group are just a few to be named. Apart from this the domestic Hotel Chains have also made a brand name for themselves like Al Nahda Resort, etc.

• Bustan-palace.jpg

  Ritz-Carlton, Al-Bustan Palace Hotel

• 

  Grand Hyatt hotel in Oman

• 

  Inside of the Grand Hyatt in Oman

• 

  Desert Night Resort at Wahiba Sands

• 

  Shangri-La's Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa

Shopping[link]

Muttrah Souq

Oman’s mix of traditional and cosmopolitan shopping venues offers a great insight into the life and culture of Omani people. The traditional Arabic market place is called the Souq and it sells household items as well as traditional handcrafts. Beside its economic purpose, the Souq has long been a focal point of social interaction. A visit to Muttrah, Nizwa and Salalah Souqs is a must. Tourists could buy carved hand-made distinctive Omani Khanjars (daggers), rose-water sprinklers, fragrant frankincense, incense burners, garments, rugs and saddles. Women jewellery ranges from small silver boxes, to earrings and rings, bracelets, anklets and necklaces. In some Souqs like Nizwa and Sinaw livestock are auctioned and bartered.

Gallery[link]

• 

  Al Alam Palace ,Muscat

• 

  Al Khuwair - The two Khanjar's (left of image) mark the entrance to the Ministries Street which houses all the Ministries of Oman

• 

  Al Khuwair - The Zawawi Mosque can be seen here

• 

  Muscat Harbor - A traditional Omani Dhow lays anchored in the Muscat Harbor (World's largest natural harbor)

• 

  Muscat Port - The Sultan's Yacht can be seen anchored at the Port.

• 

  Mutrah Corniche

• 

  Mutrah Corniche

• 

  The Muscat Fort (Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century) overlooks the Muscat harbor, Mutrah and the Al Alam Palace

• 

  Riyam Park - as seen in Amazing Race 9 - is very near to the Muscat Harbor

• 

  The Mutrah Corniche was renovated to undo the destruction done by Cyclone Gonu

• 

  The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

• 

  Muscat Clock Tower, MBD, Ruwi - It’s the oldest Monument in Modern Oman and showcases the Sultanate’s commitment to modernization

• 

  Beaches of Oman along with its cliffs attracts tourists from all over the world!

• 

  Qantab Beach

• 

  Qurum Beach - Crowne Plaza Muscat can be seen in the distance (on the cliff-top)

• 

  Muscat Municipality works continuously to beautify the city. Such gates dot roads around Muscat and showcase the traditional roots of the Sultanate

• 

  Muscat Boat Club

• 

  Ruwi - The Commercial hub of Muscat includes a massive marketplace - The Ruwi High Street

• 

  Wadi Shab and Wadi Tiwi

See also[link]

• Oman
• Royal Opera House Muscat
• Geography of Oman
• Economy of Oman
• Cities in Oman
• Provinces of Oman
• Muscat
• Muttrah
• Salalah
• Sohar
• Nizwa
• Sur
• Al Alam Palace
• Blue City
• Shangri-La's Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa
• The World Fireworks Championship

References[link]

Articles[link]

• Vogue magazine chooses Oman as 2008 top destination
• Oman shines as hottest new destination
• British media shower praises on Oman’s immaculate beauty
• Discover Oman: One Land, One Breathtaking Journey Authentic Arabia
• The beginner’s guide to Oman
• Muscat to Host World Fireworks Championship in December

External links[link]

Find more about Oman on Wikipedia's sister projects:
	Definitions and translations from Wiktionary
	Images and media from Commons
	Learning resources from Wikiversity
	News stories from Wikinews
	Quotations from Wikiquote
	Source texts from Wikisource
	Textbooks from Wikibooks

General[link]

• Oman Tourism Portal
• Ministry of Information - Tourism Section
• Lonely Planet - Oman
• Muscat International Airport
• Muscat Travel Portal
• Oman Air
• Oman Tourism and Hospitality Academy
• Geological Society of Oman
• Oman Center for Traditional Music
• Oman World Fireworks Championship 2010

Visitors impressions[link]

• Oman flickr images

This article needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. (March 2011)

Sultanate of Oman سلطنة عُمان Salṭanat ʻUmān
Flag National emblem
Anthem: Nashid as-Salaam as-Sultani National anthem of Oman
Capital (and largest city)		Muscat 23°36′N 58°33′E / 23.6°N 58.55°E / 23.6; 58.55
Official language(s)		Arabic
Demonym		Omani
Government		Unitary Islamic Absolute monarchy
-	Sultan	Qaboos bin Said al Said
-	Deputy Prime Minister	Fahd bin Mahmoud al Said[1]
Legislature		Council of Oman
-	Upper house	Council of State
-	Lower house	Consultative Assembly
Establishment
-	Imamate established[2]	751
Area
-	Total	309,501 km2 (70th) 119,498 sq mi
-	Water (%)	negligible
Population
-	2010 census	2,773,479 [3]
-	Density	9.2/km2 (220th) 23.8/sq mi
GDP (PPP)		2011 estimate
-	Total	$81.767 billion[4]
-	Per capita	$26,519[4]
GDP (nominal)		2011 estimate
-	Total	$71.888 billion[4]
-	Per capita	$23,315[4]
HDI (2011)		0.705[5] (high) (89th)
Currency		Rial (OMR)
Time zone		(UTC+4)
-	Summer (DST)	(UTC+4)
Drives on the		Right.
ISO 3166 code		OM
Internet TLD		.om
Calling code		968
1	Population estimate includes 816,143 non-nationals.

Oman (ⁱ/oʊˈmɑːn/ oh-MAAN; Arabic: عمان‎ ʻUmān), officially called the Sultanate of Oman (Arabic: سلطنة عُمان‎ Salṭanat ʻUmān), is an Arab state in southwest Asia on the southeast coast of the Arabian Peninsula. It is bordered by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to the northwest, Saudi Arabia to the west, and Yemen to the southwest. The coast is formed by the Arabian Sea on the southeast and the Gulf of Oman on the northeast. The Madha and Musandam enclaves are surrounded by the UAE on their land borders, with the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman forming Musandam's coastal boundaries.

For a period, Oman was a moderate regional power, formerly having a sultanate extending across the Strait of Hormuz to Iran, and modern day Pakistan, and far south to Zanzibar on the coat of south-east Africa. Over time, as its power declined, the sultanate came under heavy influence from the United Kingdom, though Oman was never formally part of the British Empire, or a British protectorate. The Omani royal family claim that Oman has been ruled by the Al Said dynasty since 1744, although without substantial proof. Oman has long-standing military and political ties with the United Kingdom and the United States, although it maintains an independent foreign policy.^[6]

Oman is an absolute monarchy in which the Sultan of Oman exercises ultimate authority but its parliament has some legislative and oversight powers.^[7] In November 2010, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) listed Oman, from among 135 countries worldwide, as the nation most-improved during the preceding 40 years.^[8] According to international indices, Oman is one of the most developed and stable countries in the Arab World.^[9]

History[link]

Stone Age[link]

World Heritage Graves in Al Ayn, Oman

Dereaze, located in the city of Ibri, is the oldest known human settlement in the area, dating back as many as 8,000 years to the late Stone Age.^{[citation needed]} Archaeological remains have been discovered here from the Stone Age and the Bronze Age; findings have included stone implements, animal bones, shells and fire hearths, with the later dating back to 7615 BC as the oldest signs of human settlement in the area. Other discoveries include hand-molded pottery bearing distinguishing pre-Bronze Age marks, heavy flint implements, pointed tools and scrapers.

On a mountain rock-face in the same district, animal drawings have been discovered. Similar drawings have also been found in the Wadi Sahtan and Wadi Bani Kharus areas of Rustaq, consisting of human figures carrying weapons and being confronted by wild animals. Siwan in Haima is another Stone Age location and some of the archaeologists have found arrowheads, knives, chisels and circular stones which may have been used to hunt animals.

Wadi Shab, Oman, 2004

Sumerian tablets refer to a country called Magan or Makan, a name believed to refer to Oman's ancient copper mines. Mazoon, another name used for the region, is derived from the word muzn, which means heavy clouds which carry abundant water. The present-day name of the country, Oman, is believed to originate from the Arab tribes who migrated to its territory from the Uman region of Yemen; many such tribes settled in Oman, making a living by fishing, herding or stock breeding, and many present day Omani families are able to trace their ancestral roots to other parts of Arabia.

From the 6th century BC to the arrival of Islam in the 7th century AD, Oman was controlled and/or influenced by three Persian dynasties, the Achaemenids, Parthians and Sassanids. In the 6th century BC, the Achaemenids exerted a strong degree of control over the Omani peninsula, most likely ruling from a coastal center such as Sohar. By about 250 BC, the Parthian dynasty had brought the Persian Gulf under their control and extended their influence as far as Oman, establishing garrisons in Oman to help control the trade routes in the Persian Gulf. In the 3rd century AD, the Sassanids succeeded the Parthians and held the area until the rise of Islam four centuries later.^[10]

Arrival of Islam[link]

The Bahla Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site

Omanis were among the first people to embrace Islam.^[11] The conversion of the Omanis is usually ascribed to Amr ibn al-As, who was sent by Muhammad around 630 AD to invite Jayfar and 'Abd, the joint rulers of Oman at that time, to accept the faith. In accepting Islam, Oman became an Ibadhi state, ruled by an elected leader, the Imam. During the early years of the Islamic mission, Oman played a major role in the Wars of Apostasy that occurred after the death of Muhammad, and also took part in the great Islamic conquests by land and sea in Iraq, Persia and beyond. Oman's most prominent role in this respect was through its extensive trading and seafaring activities in East Africa and the Far East, particularly during the 19th century, when it propagated Islam to many of East Africa's coastal regions, certain areas of Central Africa, India, Southeast Asia and China. After its conversion to Islam, Oman was ruled by Umayyads between 661–750, Abbasids between 750–931, 932–933 and 934–967, Qarmatians between 931–932 and 933–934, Buyids between 967–1053, and the Seljuks of Kirman between 1053–1154.

Portuguese colonization[link]

A decade after Vasco da Gama discovered the seaway to India in 1498, Portuguese explorers arrived in Oman and occupied Muscat for a 140-year period, between 1508 and 1648. In need of an outpost to protect their sea lanes, the Portuguese colonists built up and fortified the city, where remnants of their colonial architectural style still remain.

Rebellious tribes eventually drove out the Portuguese, but were pushed out themselves about a century later, in 1741, by the leader of a Yemeni tribe leading a massive army from various allied tribes, beginning the current line of ruling sultans. Excepting a brief Persian invasion in the late 1740s, Oman has been self-governing ever since.

No foreign power controlled the entirety of what is now Oman. The majority of the territory was always ruled by tribes, with colonial control contained to a few strategic port cities. Oman, as it exists now was never under the total sway of European colonization, unlike true "colonies" such as the British in India.

Oman, East Africa and the Indian Ocean[link]

The Sultan's Palace in Zanzibar, which was once Oman's capital and residence of its Sultans.

In the 1690s, Saif bin Sultan, the Imam of Oman, pressed down the East African coast. A major obstacle to his progress was Fort Jesus, housing the garrison of a Portuguese settlement at Mombasa. After a two-year siege, the fort fell to bin Sultan in 1698. Thereafter the Omanis easily ejected the Portuguese from Zanzibar and from all other coastal regions north of Mozambique, with the aid of the Somalis. Zanzibar was a valuable property as the main slave market of the East African coast, and became an increasingly important part of the Omani empire, a fact reflected by the decision of the 19th century Sultan of Oman, Sa'id ibn Sultan, to make it his main place of residence in 1837. Sa'id built impressive palaces and gardens in Zanzibar. Rivalry between his two sons was resolved, with the help of forceful British diplomacy, when one of them, Majid, succeeded to Zanzibar and to the many regions claimed by the family on the East African coast. The other son, Thuwaini, inherited Muscat and Oman.

A History of Omani presence is also known in Comoros archipelago in the Indian ocean, which led to a great influence in the Comorian culture from the clothing, to the wedding ceremonies. It is said that the capital of Comoros, Moroni, was once the capital of the Omani sultanate empire and a center of trade for the empire.

Oman and Gwadar[link]

In 1783, Oman's Saiad Sultan, defeated ruler of Muscat, was granted sovereignty over Gwadar, a coastal city located in the Makran region of what is now the far southwestern corner of Pakistan, near the present-day border of Iran and at the mouth of the Gulf of Oman.^{[note 1][12]} He was to continue this sovereignty, via an appointed wali (or "governor"), after regaining control of Muscat, and he maintained close relations with the Emirs of Sindh. The Sultans of Muscat retained sovereignty over Gwadar until the 1950s. In 1955, Makran acceded to Pakistan and was made a district – although Gwadar, at the time, was not included in Makran. In 1958, Gwadar and its surrounding areas were returned to Pakistan by Muscat, and were given the status of Tahsil of the Makran district.^{[note 2][13]}

Jebel Akhdar War[link]

The Hajar Mountains, of which the Jebel Akhdar, or Green Mountain, is a part, separated the country into two distinct regions: the interior, known as Oman, and the coastal area dominated by the capital, Muscat [46]. Imam Ghalib bin Ali Al Hinai (1912 – 29 November 2009) was the elected Imam of The Imamate of Oman [47]. Relations between the Sultan of Muscat, Said bin Taimur, and Imam Ghalib were ruptured over a dispute concerning the right to grant oil concessions. A subsidiary of the Iraq Petroleum Company was intensely interested in some promising geological formations near Fahud [46]. Under the terms of a 1920 treaty, the Sultan of Muscat was responsible for the external affairs of Oman [48]. The Sultan claimed all dealings with the oil company as his prerogative. The Imam, on the other hand, claimed that since the oil was in his territory, anything dealing with it was an internal matter [46]. In December 1955, Sultan Said bin Taimur sent troops of the Muscat and Oman Field Force to occupy the main centres in Oman, including Nizwa, the capital of the Imamate of Oman, and Ibri [48]. Imam Ghalib bin Ali along with his younger brother Talib bin Ali Al Hinai, led the Imamate of Oman in the Jebel Akhdar War against Sultan Said bin Taimur's attack on his lands. In July 1957, the Sultan's forces were withdrawing but were repeatedly ambushed, sustaining heavy casualties [48]. Sultan Said bin Taimur, however, with the intervention of infantry (two companies of the Cameronians) and armoured car detachments from the British Army and aircraft of the RAF was able to suppress the rebellion [49]. Talib's forces retreated to the inaccessible Jebel Akhdar [49].The war lasted 5 years until the Sultan of Muscat's Armed Forces, aided by colonial British soldiers from the Special Air Service, had put down the Jebel Akhdar revolt in 1959, and Imam Ghalib went into exile in Saudi Arabia [47]. He continued for a short time to lead a temporary government-in-exile from Dammam, Saudi Arabia while the fighting continued in Oman. The Treaty of Seeb was terminated and the autonomous Imamate of Oman abolished giving way to the present day Sultanate [50]. Imam Ghalib continued to receive many visitors from Oman up until his death and was deeply respected by the people of Oman. He was known for his faithful adherence to his religion, and his generosity. He died on 29 November 2009 at the age of 96 in Dammam [47].

Dhofar rebellion[link]

The Dhofar Rebellion was launched in the province of Dhofar against the Sultanate of Muscat and Oman and Britain from 1962 to 1975. As the rebellion threatened to overthrow the Sultan's rule in Dhofar, Sultan Said bin Taimur was deposed by his son Qaboos bin Said, who introduced major social reforms and modernised the state's administration. The rebellion was ended by the intervention of Iranian Imperial forces, Pakistani Baluchistan Imperial ground forces, British Royal Air Force air power and major offensives by the expanded Sultan of Oman's Armed Forces.

2011 Omani protests[link]

Politics[link]

The Sultan's Al Alam Palace in Old Muscat

The head of state and of the government is the hereditary sultan, Qaboos bin Said Al Said, who appoints a cabinet called the "Diwans" to assist him. In the early 1990s, the sultan instituted an elected council, the Consultative Assembly of Oman, It had advisory roles until 2011, when Sultan Qaboos decided to give legislative powers to the council, allowing the newly elected parliament to question ministers, propose laws and suggest changes to government regulations.^[14]

There are no legal political parties in Oman. As more and more young Omanis return from education abroad, it seems likely that the traditional, tribal-based political system will have to be adjusted.^[15] A State Consultative Council, established in 1981, consisted of 55 appointed representatives of government, the private sector, and regional interests.

Foreign policy[link]

Since 1970, Oman has pursued a moderate foreign policy and expanded its diplomatic relations dramatically. Oman is among the very few Arab countries that have maintained friendly ties with Iran.^[16][17] Wikileaks disclosed US diplomatic cables which have shown that cordial relations between Oman and Iran have borne fruit for the United Kingdom (in helping release British sailors imprisoned by Iran).^[18] The same cables also portray the Omani government as wishing to maintain cordial relations with Iran and as having continuously turned down US diplomats requesting Oman to take a sterner stance against Iran.^{[19][20][21][22]}

Military[link]

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Oman's armed forces, the Sultan's Armed Forces (SAF), including Royal Household troops, numbered 120,000 in 2010, consisting of: 105,000 personnel in the Royal Army of Oman (RAO), equipped with over 120 main battle tanks and 37 Scorpion tanks; 8,100 personnel in the Royal Air Force of Oman (RAFO) operating 180–200 combat aircraft, trainers, transports and helicopters; and 6,200 personnel in the Royal Navy of Oman (RNO) sailing 64 patrol and coastal vessels. Paramilitary units include the Tribal Home Guard (Firqats) of 8,000 personnel organized in small tribal teams, a Royal Oman Police (ROP) coast guard of 400, and a small ROP air wing. Funded directly by the Sultan, the elite Royal Household brigade, naval unit, and air unit number 6,400, including two special forces regiments. Oman holds one of the world's largest stocks of Scud missiles, ranging at an estimate of over 30,000 ballistic missiles. In 2008 Oman spent 7.7% of GDP on military expenditures.^[23] According to Times Online, Oman is home to the world's only camel-backed bagpipe military band.

Geography[link]

Coast of Sur, Oman

Oman lies between latitudes 16° and 28° N, and longitudes 52° and 60° E.

A vast gravel desert plain covers most of central Oman, with mountain ranges along the north (Al Hajar Mountains) and southeast coast, where the country's main cities are also located: the capital city Muscat, Sohar and Sur in the north, and Salalah in the south. Oman's climate is hot and dry in the interior and humid along the coast. During past epochs Oman was covered by ocean, witnessed by the large numbers of fossilized shells existing in areas of the desert away from the modern coastline.

Desert landscape in Oman

The peninsula of Musandam (Musandem) exclave, which has a strategic location on the Strait of Hormuz, is separated from the rest of Oman by the United Arab Emirates.^[24] The series of small towns known collectively as Dibba are the gateway to the Musandam peninsula on land and the fishing villages of Musandam by sea, with boats available for hire at Khasab for trips into the Musandam peninsula by sea.

Oman's other exclave, inside UAE territory, known as Madha, located halfway between the Musandam Peninsula and the main body of Oman,^[24] is part of the Musandam governorate, covering approximately 75 km² (29 sq mi). Madha's boundary was settled in 1969, with the north-east corner of Madha barely 10 m (32.8 ft) from the Fujairah road. Within the Madha exclave is a UAE enclave called Nahwa, belonging to the Emirate of Sharjah, situated about 8 km (5 mi) along a dirt track west of the town of New Madha, consisting of about forty houses with a clinic and telephone exchange.^[25]

Climate[link]

Oman has a hot climate and very little rainfall. Annual rainfall in Muscat averages 100 mm (3.9 in), falling mostly in January. Dhofar is subject to the southwest monsoon, and rainfall up to 640 mm (25.2 in) has been recorded in the rainy season from late June to October.^{[citation needed]} While the mountain areas receive more plentiful rainfall, some parts of the coast, particularly near the island of Masirah, sometimes receive no rain at all within the course of a year. The climate generally is very hot, with temperatures reaching around 50 °C (122.0 °F) (peak) in the hot season, from May to September.

Flora and fauna[link]

Nakhal palm tree farms in the Batina Region, Sultanate of Oman

Desert shrub and desert grass, common to southern Arabia, are found, but vegetation is sparse in the interior plateau, which is largely gravel desert.

The greater monsoon rainfall in Dhofar and the mountains makes the growth there more luxuriant during summer; coconut palms grow plentifully in the coastal plains of Dhofar and frankincense is produced in the hills, with abundant oleander and varieties of acacia.

The Al Hajar Mountains are a distinct ecoregion, the highest points in eastern Arabia with wildlife including the Arabian tahr.

Indigenous mammals include the leopard, hyena, fox, wolf, hare, oryx, and ibex. Birds include the vulture, eagle, stork, bustard, Arabian partridge, bee eater, falcon, and sunbird. In 2001, Oman had nine endangered species of mammals and five endangered types of birds^{[citation needed]} and nineteen threatened plant species. Decrees have been passed to protect endangered species, including the Arabian leopard, Arabian Oryx, Mountain gazelle, Goitered Gazelle, Arabian tahr, Green sea turtle, Hawksbill Turtle and Olive ridley turtle, but UNESCO have de-listed the Oman Arabian Oryx sanctuary from the World Heritage list due to the government's decision to reduce the site to 10% of its former size.^[27]

Administrative divisions[link]

Since 28 October 2011, Oman is divided into eleven governorates (muhafazah):^[28][29][30]

• Ad Dakhiliyah
• Ad Dhahirah North
• Al Batinah North
• Al Batinah South
• Al Buraimi
• Al Wusta
• Ash Sharqiyah North
• Ash Sharqiyah South
• Dhofar
• Masqat
• Musandam

Below the governorates, Oman is divided into provinces (wilayat).

Environment[link]

Drought and limited rainfall contribute to shortages in the nation's water supply, so maintaining an adequate supply of water for agricultural and domestic use is one of Oman's most pressing environmental problems, with limited renewable water resources; 94% of available water is used in farming and 2% for industrial activity, with the majority sourced from fossil water in the desert areas and spring water in hills and mountains. Drinking water is available throughout the country, either piped or delivered.

The soil in coastal plains, such as Salalah, have shown increased levels of salinity, due to over exploitation of ground water and encroachment by seawater in the water table. Pollution of beaches and other coastal areas by oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman is also a persistent risk.

Demographics[link]

According to the 2010 census, the total population was 2.773 million and of those, 1.96 million were Omanis. The population has grown from 2.340 million in the 2003 census. In Oman, about 50% of the population lives in Muscat and the Batinah coastal plain northwest of the capital; about 200,000 live in the Dhofar (southern) region, and about 30,000 live in the remote Musandam Peninsula on the Strait of Hormuz.

Some 600,000 foreigners live in Oman, most of whom are guest workers from Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, India and the Philippines.

Largest cities[link]

v t e Largest cities or towns of Oman http://www.geonames.org/OM/largest-cities-in-oman.html
	Rank	City name	Governate / Region	Pop.
Muscat [[File:|border|120px|Seeb]] Seeb	1	Muscat	Muscat	797 000	Salalah [[File:|border|120px|Bawshar]] Bawshar
	2	Seeb	Muscat	237 816
	3	Salalah	Dhofar	163 140
	4	Bawshar	Muscat	159 487
	5	Sohar	Al Batinah	108 274
	6	Suwayq	Al Batinah	107 143
	7	Ibri	Al Batinah	101 640
	8	Saham	Al Batinah	89 327
	9	Barka	Al Batinah	81 647
	10	Rustaq	Al Batinah	79 383

Religion[link]

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is the largest Mosque in Oman and one of the largest in the world.

Around 75% of the population consists of Ibadhi, a form of Islam distinct from the Sunni and Shia denominations, 24% Sunni Muslims and the Zaydi Shi'ite sect (Distinct from the Twelver Shi'ites forming the remaining 1% of the Omani population. The Oman government does not keep statistics on religious affiliation, but most citizens are Muslims.^[31] Non-Muslim religious communities individually constitute less than 5% of the population and include various groups of Hindus, Buddhists, Zoroastrians, Sikhs, Baha'is, and Christians. Christian communities are centered in the major urban areas of Muscat, Sohar, and Salalah and include Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and various Protestant congregations, organizing along linguistic and ethnic lines. More than 50 different Christian groups, fellowships, and assemblies are active in the Muscat metropolitan area, formed by migrant workers from Southeast Asia, although there are small communities of ethnic Indian Hindus and Christians that have been naturalized.^{[citation needed]} Many of the non-Muslims in Oman are due to the historical and cultural influence of India.

Economy[link]

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Graphical depiction of Oman 's product exports in 28 color coded categories.

Oman's Basic Statute of the State expresses in Article 11 that, "The National Economy is based on justice and the principles of a free economy."

Omani citizens enjoy good living standards, but the future is uncertain with Oman's limited oil reserves.^[31] Other sources of income, agriculture and industry, are small in comparison and count for less than 1% of the country's exports, but diversification is seen as a priority in the government of Oman. Agriculture, often subsistence in its character, produces dates, limes, grains and vegetables, but with less than 1% of the country under cultivation Oman is likely to remain a net importer of food.

Since the slump in oil prices in 1998, Oman has made active plans to diversify its economy and is placing a greater emphasis on other areas of industry, such as tourism.

Oil and gas[link]

Petrochemical tanks in Sohar

Oman's proved reserves of petroleum total about 5.5 billion barrels, 24th largest in the world.^[32] Oil is extracted and processed by Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), with proven oil reserves holding approximately steady, although oil production has been declining.^[33][34] In 2009, production was estimated at 816,000 barrels per day.^[35]

Commercial export of oil began in 1967 and since Sultan Qaboos' accession to the throne in 1970, many more oil fields have been found and developed. In June 1999, PDO discovered a new oil field in southern Oman after drilling and testing three wells which demonstrated the commercial viability of the reservoir.

Work is continuing on the RO 503.876 million (US$1.3 billion) oil refinery project in Sohar, which was due to go into operation in 2006 with a 116,400 barrels per day (18,510 m³/d) refining capacity, with the short to mid-term future of Oman resting on the project. In 2004 the Oman Oil Refinery was supplied with about 78,200 barrels per day (12,430 m³/d) for refining, while PDO began using steam injection technology in several wells to increase their productivity.

Natural gas has increased greatly in importance due to the exploitation of gas fields and the opening of a processing plant at Sur, on the coast south of Muscat. Oman's natural gas reserves are estimated at 849.5 billion cubic meters, ranking 28th in the world, and production in 2008 was about 24 billion cubic meters per year.^[36]

Mineral resources[link]

Oman's mineral resources include chromite, dolomite, zinc, limestone, gypsum, silicon, copper, gold, cobalt, and iron. Several industries have grown up around them as part of the national development process which, in turn, have boosted the minerals sector's contribution to the nation’s GDP as well as providing jobs for Omanis. The mineral sector's operations include mining and quarrying, with several projects recently completed, including: an economic feasibility study on silica ore in Wadi Buwa and Abutan in the Wusta Region, which confirmed that there were exploitable reserves of around 28 million tonnes at the two sites; a feasibility study on the production of magnesium metal from dolomite ore; a draft study on processing limestone derivatives; a project to produce geological maps of the Sharqiyah Region; economic feasibility studies on the exploitation of gold and copper ores in the Ghaizeen area; a study on raw materials in the wilayats of Duqm and Sur for use in the Sultanate's cement industry; and a study on the construction of a new minerals laboratory at Ghala in the Governorate of Muscat.

Industry[link]

The industrial sector is a cornerstone of the Sultanate’s long-term (1996–2020) development strategy for diversifying the sources of national income and reducing dependence on oil; it is also capable of helping to meet Oman's social development needs and generate greater added value for national resources by processing them into manufactured products.

The Seventh Five-Year Development Plan creates the conditions for an attractive investment climate, providing a strategy for the industrial sector aiming to develop the information technology and telecommunications industries. The Knowledge Oasis Muscat complex has been set up and expanded, and Omani companies are developing their technological potential through collaboration with various Japanese and German institutions.

There are industrial estates in Sohar, Sur, Salalah, Nizwa and Buraimi providing industries with the resources for expansion. Provision of Natural gas to the industrial estates in Sohar and Salalah, help to promote expansion of those industries reliant on large quantities of energy; tax exemptions are given as an incentive to encourage their expansion and development, with the industrial sector expected to contribute 15% to the country's GDP by 2020.^{[citation needed]}

Development plans[link]

Sohar port is expected to transform Oman's economy

The Omani economy has been radically transformed over a series of development plans beginning with the First Five-year Plan (1976–1980). At Sultan Qaboos's instruction, "Vision 2020", a plan for Oman's economic future up to the year 2020, was set out at the end of the first phase of the country's development, from 1970–1995, outlining the country's economic and social goals over the 25 years of the second phase of the development process (1996–2020).

Oman 2020, held in June 1995, has developed the following aims with regard to securing Oman's future prosperity and growth:

• To have economic and financial stability
• To reshape the role of the Government in the economy and to broaden private sector participation
• To diversify the economic base and sources of national income
• To globalize the Omani economy
• To upgrade the skills of the Omani workforce and develop human resources

A free-trade agreement with the United States took effect 1 January 2009, eliminating tariff barriers on all consumer and industrial products, also providing strong protections for foreign businesses investing in Oman.^[37]

Tourism[link]

Oman is known for its popular tourist attractions. Wadis, deserts, beaches, and mountains are areas which make Oman unique among its neighboring Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) nations (wadis in particular). With a coastline of 1700 km, Oman offers clean beaches popular with visitors. Few beaches are private, except some attached to the beach resort hotels, or those adjoining military or official property. Wadis are green, lush oases of palm trees, grasses, and flowers. Some wadis have year-round running water, with deep, cool pools in which it is quite safe to swim if the currents are slow. A Falaj (pl. aflaaj) is a system for the distribution of water and is commonly used to describe irrigation channel systems downstream of water sources. Some aflaaj in Oman were built more than 1,500 years ago, whilst others were built at the beginning of the 20th century. In many areas, the only water available is attained by drilling wells to depths of dozens of meters.^{[citation needed]}

Numerous forts and castles are included among Oman's cultural landmarks and, together with its towers and city walls, have historically been used as defensive bastions or look-out points, as well as the seats of administrative and judicial authority. There are over 500 forts, castles, and towers in various architectural styles, built to defend more than 3200 km coastline from potential invaders.

Inside of Grand Hyatt at Muscat

Souqs can be found in many of the towns throughout the country. One of the oldest preserved souqs in Oman is Muttrah, on the Corniche, consisting of a maze of pathways; gold and silver jewelry is found in abundance as well as numerous wooden carvings, ornaments and spices and traditional implements. Household goods make up the bulk of the wares. Today the capital area also has a number of Western European-style Shopping Malls, mainly situated in Qurum, but also extending to the Al Khuwair area of Muscat, where a variety of shops, ranging from boutiques to chain stores, can be found.^[38] The largest mall in the country is the Muscat City Centre which includes a French Carrefour hypermarket. Another mall namely the Muscat Grand Mall is expected to open soon and it will be the largest mall in Oman.Now 10 other big hypermarkets are there in Oman named Lulu Hypermarket.

Other popular tourist activities include sand skiing in the desert, scuba diving, rock climbing, trekking, surfing & sailing, cave exploration, birdwatching, bull fighting, and camel races. The Sohar Music Festival happening in Sohar every October/November attracts more and more tourists each year. The Muscat Festival, usually held in January and February, is similar to the Dubai Shopping Festival, but smaller in scale, where traditional dances are held, temporary theme parks open, and concerts take place. Another popular event is The Khareef Festival held in Salalah, Dhofar, which is 1,200 km from the capital city of Muscat, during the monsoon season (August) and is similar to Muscat Festival. During this latter event the mountains surrounding Salalah are popular with tourists as a result of the cool weather and lush greenery, rarely found anywhere else in Oman.^[39]

Labor[link]

The estimated workforce was 920,000 in 2002. These days average pay is around 100 OMR to 150 OMR per month. A large proportion of the indigenous population were still engaged in subsistence agriculture or fishing. The skilled local labor force is small, and many of the larger industries depend on foreign workers from Pakistan, Bangladesh, Philippines, India, and Sri Lanka. Oman's foreign workers send an estimated US$30 billion annually to their Asian and African home states, more than half of them earning a monthly wage of less than US$400.^[40] The largest foreign community is from the south Indian states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka or come from Maharastra, Gujarat and the Punjab,^[41] representing more than half of entire workforce in Oman. Salaries for overseas workers are known to be less than for Omani nationals, though still from two to five times higher than for the equivalent job in India.^[40]

The minimum working age for Omani citizens is 13, but this provision is not enforced against the employment of children in family businesses or on family farms. The minimum working age for foreign workers is 21. The minimum wage for non-professional workers was US$260 per month in 2002. However, many classes of workers (domestic servants, farmers, government employees) are not required to receive the minimum wage and the government is not consistent in its enforcement of the minimum wage law. The private sector working week is 40 to 45 hours long, while government officials have a 35-hour working week.^{[citation needed]}

Labor unions[link]

Oman Law was amended during February 2010 to allow the formation of labor unions. There are now approximately 70 Labor Unions within the Sultanate. The law allows peaceful protests. Collective bargaining is not permitted, however there exist labor-management committees in firms with more than 50 workers. These committees are not authorized to discuss conditions of employment, including hours and wages. The Labor Welfare Board provides a venue for grievances.^{[citation needed]}

Inflation[link]

As oil prices have risen to a record high, so has inflation. The government depends mostly on oil revenue, more than on tax returns from companies and other government-owned companies. The government is also Oman's largest employer, so the high interest that government gets increases the prices of food and construction equipment. The government did support the fuel prices so it doesn't increase the inflation and to make the price suitable for people on low wages.

The minimum wage has been changed from 120 Rials a month to 140 Rials because of high records of inflation driven by high prices of oil.^{[citation needed]} In February 2011, the minimum wage was increased from 140 Rials per month to 200 Rials per month.^{[citation needed]}

Transportation[link]

Oman maintains the following road links to its neighboring countries:

• United Arab Emirates: Oman has several good road connections at Buraimi (Al Ain), Waddi Hatta (Wajaja), Khamat Mulahah (Fujairah) and Bukha.
• Yemen: Route 47: Raysut to Sarfait in Oman – Yemen border. The road then goes to Hawf, Al Faydami, Al Ghaydah. Another road is from Thumrait to Al Mazyonah in Oman – Yemen border.The road then goes to Shisan, Al Kurah, Al Ghaydah.
• Saudi Arabia: Desert road through Al Mashash. There is also a new road under construction to link the two countries.

Oman National Transport Company or ONTC is the Oman's public bus service company. Muscat International Airport and Salalah Airport are the two main airports in Oman. A rail link has been proposed connecting all major GCC nations and Oman is party to this project. The Muscat Port or Port Sultan Qaboos (Mina Qaboos as its locally known) is the prime maritime gateway of Oman. Other ports have been built in Salalah and Sohar. The Sohar port will be one of the largest in the region once construction completely finishes. Oman is also constructing the Al Duqm Port & Drydock and drydock.

Oman Air is the national carrier of Oman. Formerly Gulf Air was the national carrier of the Sultanate, but as other Arab nations withdrew from the joint venture, Oman too withdrew. It was the last country to do so.

The Oman Ferries Company maintains the two diesel-powered, high-speed, car ferries – Shinas and Hormouz. The ferries are used for travel between Muscat and Khasab. Khasab is strategically located in Musandam on the southern tip of the Strait of Hormuz and is controlled by Oman. Mainland Oman is separated by a small strip of UAE territory from Musandam.^[42]

Education[link]

Before 1970, only three formal schools existed in the whole country with fewer than 1000 students receiving education in them. Since Sultan Qaboos came to power in 1970, the government has given high priority to education to develop a domestic work force, which the government considers a vital factor in the country's economic and social progress. Today there are over 1000 state schools and about 650,000 students. In 1986, Oman's first university, Sultan Qaboos University, opened. University of Nizwa is also one of the fastest growing Universities in Oman with a newly completed research center and a growing department of Information Systems. The department of Information Systems of the University of Nizwa is perhaps the biggest in the Gulf in terms of students' population. Among notable American Professors include Dr. Richmond Adebiaye who is considered an expert in Information Systems and Security. Other post-secondary institutions in Oman include Higher College of Technology and its six other colleges of technology, six colleges of applied sciences (including a teacher's training college), a college of banking and financial studies, an institute of Sharia sciences, and several nursing institutes. Some 200 scholarships are awarded each year for study abroad.

University of Nizwa[link]

The University of Nizwa was established in 2002 by the Decree of His Majesty the Sultan Qaboos as the first non-profit university in the Sultanate of Oman; it remains the only institution of its kind in the nation. Upon the satisfaction of all requirements set forth by the Ministry of Higher Education and the Higher Education Council, the University of Nizwa was granted legal status by ministerial decision No. 1/2004 on 3 January 2004. On 16 October 2004, the University of Nizwa opened the doors to its inaugural class of 1,200 students, 88% of whom were Omani women. The current campus is located near the base of the famous Jabal al-Akhdhar in Birkat al-Mouz, 20 km NW of Nizwa. The construction of a new campus, located near the new Farq-Hail highwa began in March 2010. The university is currently in the final stage of institutional accreditation in accordance with the academic standards established by the Oman Academic Accreditation Authority.

Though the student body comprises native Arabic speakers, the official language of academic instruction is English, making the university a bilingual institution. English language proficiency is achieved in a year-long intensive course as part of the academic General Foundation Program.

Pre-university education in Oman has three stages: primary, preparatory, and secondary. Six years of primary schooling are followed by preparatory school. Academic results of the preparatory exams determine the type of secondary education the student will receive. Nine private colleges exist, providing two-year post secondary diplomas. Since 1999, the government has embarked on reforms in higher education designed to meet the needs of a growing population, only a small percentage of which are currently admitted to Higher Education Institutions. Under the reformed system, four public regional universities will be created, and incentives are provided by the government to promote the upgrading of the existing nine private colleges and the creation of other degree-granting private colleges.^{[citation needed]}

The adult illiteracy rate was estimated at 28.1% for the year 2000 (males, 19.6%; females, 38.3%). In 1998, there were 411 primary schools with 313,516 students and 12,052 teachers. Student-to-teacher ratio stood at 26 to 1. In secondary schools in 1998, there were 12,436 teachers and 217,246 students. As of 1999, 65% of primary-school-age children were enrolled in school, while 59% of those eligible attended secondary school. In the same year, public expenditure on education was estimated at 3.9% of GDP. In 1993, there were 252 literacy centers and 176 adult education centers. Three teachers' colleges were functioning as of 1986. The Institute of Agriculture at Nazwa became a full college by 1985. Sultan Qaboos University opened in 1986. In 1998, all higher-level institutions had 1,307 teachers and 16,032 students.

Apart from the schools for Omani nationals, various other schools are present in Oman too that accommodate the children of the huge expatriate population of Oman. These include Indian Schools, Bangaldeshi Schools, Sri Lankan Schools, Pakistani Schools, The American School in Muscat, The American British Academy and the Philippine School Muscat.

Science and technology[link]

A water oasis in Oman provides a source of drinking water for animals and humans.

Most research conducted in Oman has been done at the behest of the government; agriculture, minerals, water resources, and marine sciences have drawn the most attention. Sultan Qaboos University, founded in 1985, has colleges of science, medicine, engineering, and agriculture. In 1987–97, science and engineering students accounted for 13% of college and university enrollments.

The Institute of Health Sciences, under the Ministry of Health, was founded in 1982. Muscat Technical Industrial College (later renamed the Higher College of Technology), founded in 1984, has departments of computing and mathematics, laboratory science, and electrical, construction, and mechanical engineering.^{[citation needed]} The Oman Natural History Museum, founded in 1983, includes the national herbarium and the national shell collection. All of these organizations are located in Muscat.

Meteorites[link]

The central desert of Oman is an important source of meteorites for scientific analysis.^[43] Since 1999, search campaigns in Oman have provided about 20% of the world's meteorites.^{[citation needed]} These include rare meteorites from Mars and the Moon. The meteorite accumulations in the gravelly central desert play an important role in increasing knowledge of conditions in the early solar system.

Health[link]

Life expectancy at birth in Oman is estimated to be 74.47 years in 2012.^[44] As of 1999, there were an estimated 1.3 physicians and 2.2 hospital beds per 1,000 people. In 1993, 89% of the population had access to health care services. In 2000, 99% of the population had access to health care services.^{[citation needed]} During the last three decades, the Oman health care system has demonstrated and reported great achievements in health care services and preventive and curative medicine. In 2001, Oman was ranked number 8 by the World Health Organization.

Culture[link]

This unreferenced section requires citations to ensure verifiability.

Although Arabic is Oman's official language, there are native speakers of different dialects, as well as Balochi (the language of the Baloch from Baluchistan western-Pakistan, eastern Iran), and southern Afghanistan or offshoots of Southern Arabian, and some descendants of Sindhi sailors. Also spoken in Oman are Semitic languages only distantly related to Arabic, but closely related to Semitic languages in Eritrea and Ethiopia. Swahili and English are also widely spoken in the country due to the historical relations between Oman and Zanzibar the two languages have been linked historically. The dominant indigenous language is a dialect of Arabic and the country has also adopted English as a second language. Almost all signs and writings appear in both Arabic and English.^{[citation needed]} A significant number also speak Urdu, due to the influx of Pakistani migrants during the late 1980s and the 1990s.

Khanjar knife, traditional dagger of Oman, circa 1924

Oman is famous for its khanjar knives, which are curved daggers worn during holidays as part of ceremonial dress. During the Medieval era, khanjars became highly popular as they symbolized Muslim sailors, and later various types of khanjars were made, representing various sailing nations in the Muslim world. Today, traditional clothing is worn by most Omani men. This typically consists of an ankle-length, collarless robe called a dishdasha that buttons at the neck with a tassel hanging down. Traditionally, this tassel would be dipped in perfume. Today the tassel is merely a traditional part of the dishdasha.

Women wear the hijab and abaya. Some women cover their faces and hands, but most do not.^{[citation needed]} The abaya is a traditional dress and currently comes in different styles. The Sultan has forbidden the covering of faces in universities. On holidays, such as Eid, the women wear traditional dress, which is often very brightly colored and consists of a mid-calf length tunic over trousers. The Abaya is mostly worn in the capital, whereas in the interior regions brightly colored dresses are the usual attire.^{[citation needed]}

Food[link]

The main daily meal is usually eaten at midday, while the evening meal is lighter. During Ramadan, dinner is served after the Taraweeh prayers, sometimes as late as 11 pm. Maqbous is a rice dish, with yellow rice and saffron served and cooked over spicy red or white meat. Arsia is a festival meal, served during celebrations, which consists of mashed rice flavoured with spices. Another popular festival meal is shuwa, which is meat cooked very slowly (sometimes for up to 2 days) in an underground clay oven. The meat becomes extremely tender and it is infused with spices and herbs before cooking to give it a very distinct taste. Fish is often used in main dishes too, and the kingfish is a popular ingredient. Mashuai is a meal consisting of a whole spit-roasted kingfish served with lemon rice. Rukhal bread is a thin, round bread originally baked over a fire made from palm leaves. It is eaten at any meal, typically served with Omani honey for breakfast or crumbled over curry for dinner. Chicken, fish and mutton are regularly used in dishes.

Although spices, herbs, onion, garlic and lime are liberally used in traditional Omani Cuisine, unlike similar Asian food, it is not hot or spicy. Omani Cuisine is also distinct from the Indigenous foods of other Arab states of the Arabian Peninsula and even varies within the Sultanate's different regions.^{[citation needed]} There are also significant differences in cuisine between different regions of Oman.

Sport[link]

Ali Al-Habsi is an Omani professional association football player. He currently plays in the Premier League as a goalkeeper for Wigan Athletic.^[45]

The government aims to give young people a fully rounded education by providing activities and experience in the sporting, cultural, intellectual, social and scientific spheres, and to excel internationally in these areas and for this reason, in October 2004, the government created a Ministry of Sports Affairs to replace the General Organization for youth, sports and cultural affairs.

The 2009 Gulf Cup of Nations, the 19th edition, took place in Muscat, from 4 to 17 January 2009 and was won by the Omani national football team.

The International Olympic Committee awarded the former GOYSCA its prestigious prize for Sporting excellence in recognition of its contributions to youth and sports and its efforts to promote the Olympic spirit and goals.

The Oman Olympic Committee played a major part in organizing the highly successful 2003 Olympic Days, which were of great benefit to the sports associations, clubs and young participants. The football association took part, along with the handball, basketball, rugby union, hockey, volleyball, athletics, swimming, and tennis associations. In 2010, Muscat hosted the 2010 Asian Beach Games.

They also host tennis tournaments in different age divisions each year. Inside the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex stadium contains a 50 meter pool for swimming which is used for international tournaments from different schools in different countries. The Tour of Oman, a professional cycling 6-day stage race, is held in February.

Oman also hosted the Asian 2011 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup qualifiers, where 11 teams are competing for 3 spots at the FIFA World Cup.

Oman is perhaps the only Gulf nation to have bullfighting events organised in its territories. Al-Batena area is prominent for such events. Wide audiences turn up to see the events unfold. Omani bullfighting is however not a violent event. The origins of Bullfighting in Oman are unknown though many locals here believe it was brought to Oman by the Moors of Spanish origin. Yet others say it has a direct connection with Portugal which colonized the Omani coastline for nearly 2 centuries.^[46]

Gallery[link]

• Royal Opera House Oman.JPG

  Royal Opera House-Muscat.

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  Mumtaz Mahal Restaurant-Al Khuwair, Muscat.

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  Corridor Next to Muscat Old Palace.

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  Al Alam Palace, Muscat

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  Al Khuwair – The two Khanjar's (left of image) mark the entrance to the Ministries Street which houses all the Ministries of Oman

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  Al Khuwair – The Zawawi Mosque can be seen here

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  Muscat Harbor – A traditional Omani Dhow lays anchored in the Muscat Harbor (World's largest natural harbor)

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  Muscat Port – The Sultan's Yacht can be seen anchored at the Port.

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  Mutrah Corniche

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  Mutrah Corniche

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  The Muscat Fort (Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century) overlooks the Muscat harbor, Mutrah and the Al Alam Palace

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  Riyam Park – as seen in Amazing Race 9 – is very near to the Muscat Harbor

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  The Mutrah Corniche was renovated to undo the destruction done by Cyclone Gonu

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  Dust storms are rare in Muscat

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  The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

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  Muscat Clock Tower, MBD, Ruwi -The oldest Monument in Modern Oman

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  Omani crowds watching their national football team hosting the Gulf of Nations Cup, which the team went on to win

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  The Headquarters and Petroleum Refinery of PDO in Muscat

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  A typical long beach with cliffs in the capital, Muscat

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  Qantab Beach

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  Qurum Beach – Crowne Plaza Muscat can be seen in the distance (on the cliff-top)

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  Gates decorate routes throughout Muscat

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  Muscat Boat Club

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  The Headquarters of Omantel (Oman's Public Telecommunication Provider) can be seen in CBD, Ruwi (Tower like building)

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  Torrential rains can last for days in Oman

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  Ruwi – The Commercial hub of Muscat includes a marketplace – The Ruwi High Street

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  Bullfighting in Oman

See also[link]

	Geography portal
	Asia portal
	Middle East portal

• Outline of Oman
• Index of Oman-related articles
• List of cities in Oman
• Telecommunications in Oman
• Foreign relations of Oman
• Royal Oman Police
• Human rights in Oman
• 2011 Oman protests
• Transport in Oman
• Tourism in Oman
• Scouting and Guiding in Oman
• Theweek
• Cyclone Gonu
• Al Nuaim
• Muscat Daily

Notes[link]

1. ^ In 1783, when Saiad Said succeeded to the "masnad" of Muscat and Oman (an independent state founded in 1749), he fell out with his brother Saiad Sultan, who fled to safety in Makran and entered into communication with Nasir Khan of Kalat. Saiad was granted the Kalat share of the revenues of Gwadar and lived there until 1797 when he achieved the Sultanate of Muscat and Oman.
2. ^ Gwadar remained an Omani possession as part of the sultanate until September 1958

References[link]