Oman

Oman, officially the Sultanate of Oman, is a country on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. It borders the United Arab Emirates to the northwest, Saudi Arabia to the west, Yemen to the southwest, and has coastlines along the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. The capital and largest city is Muscat. Oman is a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council and the Arab League. The country is a sultanate, with the Sultan serving as both head of state and government.

Historically, Oman was a major maritime and trading power. The Portuguese controlled parts of the coast in the 16th century before being expelled by the Yaruba dynasty in the 17th century, leading to a long period of relative regional influence. In 1970, Sultan Qaboos bin Said began a program of modernization; after his death in 2020, Haitham bin Tariq succeeded him.

Geographically diverse, Oman includes the Hajar mountain range, the deserts of the interior, and the monsoon-influenced Dhofar region along the southern coast. Its coastlines span the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.

Economy: oil and natural gas remain important export commodities, but the government is pursuing diversification under its Vision 2040 plan to expand tourism, logistics, fisheries, and non-oil industries. Tourism sites include historic forts and desert landscapes, and the country is investing in ports and airports.

Demographics and culture: the population is predominantly Muslim, with Ibadi Islam as a notable tradition alongside Sunni and other communities. Arabic is the official language, with English widely used. Oman has a sizeable expatriate population, and its culture emphasizes hospitality, crafts, and a long seafaring heritage.