Oman
22316
226042908
2008-07-16T15:57:58Z
150.253.88.165
{{distinguish|Uman}}
{{Infobox Country
|native_name = <big> سلطنة عُمان
|conventional_long_name = Sultanate of Oman
|common_name = Oman
|image_flag = Flag of Oman.svg
|image_coat = Coat_of_arms_of_Oman.svg
|symbol_type = National Emblem
|image_map = LocationOman.png
|national_motto = none
|national_anthem = ''[[Nashid as-Salaam as-Sultani]]''
|official_languages = [[Arabic]]
|demonym = Omani
|capital = [[Muscat, Oman|Muscat]]
|latd=23 |latm=36 |latNS=N |longd=58 |longm=33 |longEW=E
|largest_city = capital
|government_type = [[Constitutional Monarchy]]
|leader_title1 = [[Sultan of Oman|Sultan]]
|leader_name1 = [[Qaboos of Oman|Qaboos ibn Said Al Said]]
|leader_title2 = [[Chancellor]]
|leader_name2 = [[Fahad bin Mahmood|Fahad ibn Mahmood Al Said]]
|sovereignty_type = [[Independence]]
|established_event1 = From the Portuguese empire
|established_date1 = 1651
|area_rank = 70<sup>th</sup>
|area_magnitude = 1 E11
|area_km2 = 309,500
|area_sq_mi = 119,498 <!-- Do not remove per [[WP:MOSNUM]] -->
|percent_water = negligible
|population_estimate = 3,204,897<ref name="pop">{{cite web| url=https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/mu.html| title=Oman| work=World Factbook| publisher=CIA| accessdate=2007-11-14}}</ref>
|population_estimate_year = mid 2006
|population_estimate_rank = 139th
|population_census = 2,300,000
|population_census_year = 2003
|population_density_km2 = 8.3
|population_density_sq_mi = 21.5 <!-- Do not remove per [[WP:MOSNUM]] -->
|population_density_rank = 182<sup>th</sup>
|GDP_PPP_year = 2007
|GDP_PPP = $52.3 billion
|GDP_PPP_rank = 81<sup>th</sup>
|GDP_PPP_per_capita = $19,879
|GDP_PPP_per_capita_rank = 44<sup>th</sup>
|GDP_nominal_year = 2007
|GDP_nominal = $40.992 billion
|GDP_nominal_rank = 70<sup>th</sup>
|GDP_nominal_per_capita = $15,584
|GDP_nominal_per_capita_rank = 40<sup>st</sup>
|HDI_year = 2007
|HDI = {{increase}} 0.814
|HDI_rank = 58<sup>th</sup>
|HDI_category = <font color="#009900">high</font>
|currency = [[Omani rial|Rial]]
|currency_code = OMR
|country_code = OMN
|time_zone =
|utc_offset = +4
|time_zone_DST =
|utc_offset_DST = +4
|cctld = [[.om]]
|calling_code = 968
|footnote1 = Population estimate includes 693,000 non-nationals.
}}
'''Oman''', officially the '''Sultanate of Oman''' ([[Arabic language|Arabic]]: سلطنة عُمان, {{ArTranslit|'''Sulṭanat ˤUmān'''}}), is a [[country]] in [[southwest Asia]] on the southeast coast of the [[Arabian Peninsula]]. It borders the [[United Arab Emirates]] on the northwest, [[Saudi Arabia]] on the west and [[Yemen]] on the southwest. The coast is formed by the [[Arabian Sea]] on the south and east and the [[Gulf of Oman]] on the northeast. The country also contains [[Madha]], an [[exclave]] enclosed by the [[United Arab Emirates]], and [[Musandam]], an [[exclave]] also separated by Emirati territory.
==Etymology==
Oman is a very ancient word and appears on very old [[maps]]. Little information exists regarding the origin of the word Oman: opinions of [[Arab]] [[geographers]] and [[historians]] differ greatly as to the origin of the name, some sources ascribing it to the [[Qahtani tribe]] of Oman and others linking it linguistically to a word meaning "settling" or "staying". [[Ibn al-Qabi]] says that Oman means "those who occupy a place", as in the adjective ''aamen'' or ''amoun'' (settled man), and that the word "Oman" was derived from this.
Some say that Oman was named after Oman bin [[Ibrahim al Khalil]] who built the city of Oman. Others believe the name to be taken from that of [[Oman bin Loot]]. Yet another explanation is that the [[Azd]], a tribe migrating from [[Yemen]] to Oman in pre-Islamic times, labeled Oman "Omana" because they came from a valley in [[Ma'rib]] in [[Yemen]] which went by the name of Oman, and they likened it to this place.
One of the earliest [[Roman Empire|Roman]] [[historians]] to mention Oman is [[Yalainous]], who lived from 23-79 AD. He presents in his writings a city which he names Omana. This name also recurs in [[Ptolemy]]. Some [[historians]] identify this Omana of [[Ptolemy]] as the city of [[Sohar]], which was the [[pre-eminent]] trading center of [[Arabia]] in the classical age of [[Islam]]<ref>http://www.counterpunch.org/pipermail/oman-l/1999-May/000729.html</ref>.
==History==
{{main|History of Oman}}
===Oman Before Islam===
From the 6th century BC to the arrival of [[Islam]] in the 7th century AD, Oman was controlled and/or influenced by three [[Iranian]] [[dynasties]], the [[Achaemenid]]s, [[Parthians]] and [[Sassanids]]. Achaemenids in the 6th century BC controlled and influenced the Oman peninsula. This was most likely exerted from a coastal center such as [[Sohar]]. By about 250 B.C. the [[Parthian]] [[dynasty]] brought the [[Persian Gulf]] under their control and extended their influence as far as Oman. Because they needed to control the [[Persian Gulf]] trade route, the [[Parthians]] established garrisons in Oman. In the third century A.D. the [[Sasanids]] succeeded the [[Parthians]] and held the area until the rise of [[Islam]] four centuries later<ref>http://www.historyworld.net/wrldhis/PlainTextHistories.asp?historyid=ad54</ref>.
===The Arrival of Islam===
On the advent of [[Islam]], the faith reached Oman within [[Muhammed|Prophet Muhammad's]] lifetime. The conversion of Omanis is usually ascribed to [[Amr ibn al-As]], who visited the region. By the middle of the eighth century AD, Omanis were practicing a unique sect of the faith, [[Ibadhism]], which remains a majority sect only in Oman. [[Ibadhism]] has been characterized as "moderate conservatism," with tenets that are a mixture of both austerity and peace.
===The Portuguese Settlement===
The [[Portugal|Portuguese]] occupied [[Muscat]] for a 140-year period 1508–1648, arriving a decade after [[Vasco da Gama]] discovered the seaway to [[India]]. In need of an outpost to protect their sea lanes, the [[Europeans]] built up and fortified the city, where remnants of their [[colonial architectural style]] still remain.
Revolting tribes drove out the [[Portugal|Portuguese]], but were pushed out themselves about a century later 1741 by the leader of a [[Yemeni]] tribe leading a massive army from various other tribes, who began the current line of ruling sultans. A brief [[Iran|Persian]] invasion a few years later was the final time Oman would be ruled by a foreign power. Oman has been self governing ever since.
===Oman and East African Empire===
In the 1690s [[Saif bin Sultan]], the [[ruler of oman|imam of Oman]], pressed down the [[east African]] [[coast]]. A major obstacle was [[Fort Jesus]], housing the garrison of a [[Portuguese settlement]] at [[Mombasa]]. After a two-year siege, it fell to [[Saif bin Sulatn|Saif]] in 1698. Thereafter the Omanis easily ejected the [[Portugal|Portuguese]] from [[Zanzibar]] and from all other coastal regions north of [[Mozambique]]. 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 greatest 19th century [[sultan of Oman]], [[Sa'id ibn Sultan]], to make it from 1837 his main place of residence. Sa'id built impressive palaces and gardens in Zanzibar. He improved the island's economy by introducing [[cloves]], [[sugar]] and [[indigo]] though at the same time he accepted a financial loss in cooperating with [[United Kingdom|British]] attempts to end Zanzibar's [[slave trade]]. The link with Oman was broken after his death in 1856. Rivalry between his two sons was resolved, with the help of forceful British diplomacy, when one of them [[Majid bin Saif|Majid]] succeeded to Zanzibar and to the many regions claimed by the family on the [[east African]] [[coast]]. The other [[Thuwaini bin Saif|Thuwaini]] inherited [[Muscat and Oman]].
==Politics==
[[Image:Oman-Muscat-16-Sultans-Palace-2.JPG|left|thumb|The Sultan's [[Al Alam Palace]] in Muscat]]
{{main|Politics of Oman}}
Chief of state and government is the hereditary sultān, Qaboos Bin Said Al-Said who appoints a cabinet called the "[[Diwans]]" to assist him. In the early 1990s, the sultan instituted an elected advisory council, the ''[[Majlis ash-Shura]]'', though few Omanis were eligible to [[vote]].
[[Universal suffrage]] for those over 21 was instituted on [[4 October]] [[2003]]. Over 190,000 people (74% of those registered) voted to elect the 84<ref>[http://www.undp-pogar.org/publications/elections/coverage/legislative/oman2-2007-e.pdf Oman Parliamentary Elections: Shura Council (pdf)]</ref> seats. Two women were elected to seats. The country today has three women ministers [[Rawiyah bint Saud|Rawiyah bint Saud al Busaidiyah]] - Minister of Higher Education, [[Sharif bint Khalfan|Sharifa bint Khalfan al Yahya'eyah]] - Minister of Social Development and [[Rajiha bint Abdulamir|Rajiha bint Abdulamir bin Ali]] - Minister of Tourism.
There are no legal political parties nor, at present, any active opposition movement. 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.<ref>http://www.nationsencyclopedia.com/Asia-and-Oceania/Oman.html</ref>
A State Consultative Council, established in 1981, consisted of 55 appointed representatives of government, the private sector, and regional interests.
==Military==
{{main|Sultan of Oman's Armed Forces}}
Oman's armed forces, including Royal Household troops foreign personnel numbered 41,700 in 2002. The army had 25,000 personnel equipped with over 100 main battle tanks and 37 [[Scorpion tank]]s. The air force of 4,100 operates 40 [[combat aircraft]]. The navy numbers 4,200 with 13 patrol and coastal combatants. Paramilitary includes the Tribal Home Guard (Firqats) of 4,000 organized in small tribal teams, a police coast guard of 400, and a small police air wing. The elite Royal Household brigade, naval unit, and air unit number 6,400, including 2 special forces regiments. In 2001 Oman spent $2.4 billion on defense or 12.2% of GDP.
==Governorates and Regions of Oman==
{{main|Administrative divisions of Oman|Provinces of Oman}}
<div style="width:280px"; center>{{Oman Governorates map|Map=Map of Oman Regions.jpg}}</div>
The Sultanate is divided into nine governorates and regions, each of which has states that has the same culture and habits and most of people speak the same dialects of Arabic and also share the same history and the same traditional clothes and most of them work in the past in similar jobs such as Regions in the coast where fishing is the main job and farming for regions where they are far from the coast.
Governorate of [[Muscat]] is the most densely populated region in the Sultanate with a population of more than half a million. It's Oman's political, economic, and [[administrative center]]. [[Muscat]] is host to a balance between the traditional [[heritage]] of Omani society and the modern contemporary features. This preserves Oman’s historical and cultural identity as well as gives presents Muscat's embrace of modernity.
Governorate of [[Dhofar]] is in the far south of the Sultanate and borders on the [[Wusta Region]] the east, the [[Arabian Sea]] to the south, the [[Republic of Yemen]] to the west and the [[Kingdom of Saudi Arabia]] to the north and north-west.
It is not simply a place of historical interest. All of its ten States display the clear imprint of the Renaissance. No mountain, plain, stretch of coast or border post, even as far as the sands of the [[Rub' Al Khali]], has been neglected.
Governorate of [[Musandam]] lies in extreme north of the Sultanate. It is separated from the rest of the Sultanate by a strip of [[UAE|United Arab Emirates]] land. its distinguished for its [[strategic location]], with part of it known as Ras Musandam - overlooks the international water passage called the [[Strait of Hormuz]].
It is worth noting that not the whole of the Strait is good for navigation. The part suitable for sea navigation falls within the territorial waters of the Sultanate, which made Omanis shoulder a huge responsibility in organizing navigation in this [[Strait]] since the old ages. The strategic importance of this Strait has increased nowadays, as it turned to be a crossing point to 90% of the [[OPEC|Gulf's oil]] shipped to all over the world.
[[Governorate of [[Buraimi]] which is situated in the North West corner of the Sultanate, adjacent to the borders with [[UAE|United Arab Emirates]] . It has a number of historic [[forts]] and houses. Its main forts are [[al Khandaq]], which has been adopted as the emblem of the Governorate , and Al [[Hillah Fort]]. Both these forts have recently been restored by the Ministry of National Heritage and Culture.
[[Batinah]] Region is a prime area for investment. It has achieved much over the years.occupy a coastal strip along the [[Gulf of Oman]] from the state of [[Barka]] in the south to [[Khatmat Malahah]] in the state of [[Shinas]] to the north. The wide strip is enclosed by the [[Gulf of Oman]] to the east and the foothills of the [[Western Hajar mountains]] to the [[west]].
[[Ad Dhahirah]] Region is a semi desert plain which slopes from the southern fool of [[Al Hajr AI Gharbi Mountains]] towards the [[Empty Quarter]]. It is separated from [[A’Dakhliyah Region]] by [[Al Kur Mountain]] to the East; it joins the [[Empty Quarter]] from the West and [[Wusta Region]] from the south. state of [[Ibri]] is distinguished for its unique location which joins the Sultanate with other areas in the [[Arabian Peninsula]].
[[Dakhiliah]] Region is rich in economic and [[natural resources]] and has numerous [[tourist]] attractions including [[fort]]s, [[castles]], towers, old residential quarters and historic [[mosques]]. The state of [[Nizwa]] has a famous and imposing fort, several old [[mosques]] and a traditional [[Markets|souq]], while [[Bahla Fort]] is one of the treasures of the human heritage. [[Misfah al Abriyeen]] in the state of [[al Hamra]] is a splendid example of a hanging village.
[[Sharqiyah]] Region is the north east front of Oman over looking the [[Arabian Sea]] from the east. It includes the internal side of [[Al Hajr Al sharqi mountains]] which join it from the north. It also joins [[Wahibah Sand]] frmothe south and [[Dakhliah Region]] from the west.
Sur is one of the regional centers and the most important of Sharqiyah cities. It played a historical rule in trade and navigation in the [[Indian Ocean]]. It was also known for ship building, as it was the most renowned city in the [[Arabian Peninsula]] in ship building in the last century. Besides, marine activity and ship building, Sur is famous for some historical touristic places such as caves. It is also known wood industries. textiles and produces a number of [[agricultural crops]].
[[Wusta]] Region is situated to the south of both [[Dakhliah]] and [[Dhahirah]] Regions, at the east side it is linked to the [[Arabian Sea]], at the west to the [[Empty Quarter]] and at the south to Governorate of [[Dhofar]]. It includes a large area of central parts of the Sultanate. It is distinguished for having a great number of [[oil wells]].
==Geography==
{| width="30%" style="toc: 25em; font-size: 85%; lucida grande, sans-serif; text-align: left;" class="infobox"
|-
!align="center" bgcolor="lightblue" colspan="2"|<big>Geography of Oman</big>
|-
!style="background:#f0f0f0;" align="left" valign="top"|Coastline
|style="background:#f0f0f0;" valign="top"|2,092 km
|-
!style="background:#f0f0f0;" align="left" valign="top"|Bordering countries
|style="background:#f0f0f0;" valign="top"| Saudi Arabia, UAE and Yemen
|-
| align="center" bgcolor="lightblue" colspan="2"|
|}
{{main|Geography of Oman}}
A vast gravel desert plain covers most of central Oman, with mountain ranges along the north ([[Jebel Akhdar (Oman)|al Jebel al Akhdar]]) and southeast coast, where the country's main cities are also located: the capital city [[Muscat, Oman|Muscat]], [[Matrah]] and [[Sur, Oman|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. Fossilized shells exist in great numbers in areas of the desert away from the modern coastline.
The peninsula of [[Musandam]] (Musandem), which has a strategic location on the [[Strait of Hormuz]], is separated from the rest of Oman by the [[United Arab Emirates]] and is thus an [[exclave]]. 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. Boats may be hired at Khasab for trips into the Musandam peninsula by sea.
Oman has one other exclave, inside UAE territory, known as [[Madha]]. It is located halfway between the Musandam Peninsula and the rest of Oman.<ref>{{cite web |first=Jan S. |last=Krogh |title=Oman |url=http://geosite.jankrogh.com/oman.htm}}</ref> Belonging to [[Musandam]] governorate, it covers approximately 75 [[square kilometres|km²]] <!--Format per WP:MOSNUM-->(29 [[square mile|sq mi]]). The boundary was settled in 1969. The north-east corner of Madha is closest to the [[Fujairah]] road, barely 10 m (32.8 [[foot (unit of length)|ft]]) away. Within the exclave is a UAE enclave called [[Nahwa]], belonging to the Emirate of Sharjah. It is about 8 km
(5 [[mile|mi]]) on a dirt track west of the town of New Madha. It consists of about forty houses with its own clinic and telephone exchange.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://geosite.jankrogh.com/nahwa.htm |title=United Arab Emirates}}</ref>
===Climate===
Annual [[rainfall]] in Muscat averages 10 cm (4 in), falling mostly in January. Dhofar is subject to the southwest [[monsoon]], and rainfall up to 64 cm (25 in) has been recorded in the rainy season from late June to October. 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 54°C (129°F) in the hot season, from May to October.
===Flora and fauna===
[[Desert shrub]] and desert [[grass]], common to southern Arabia, are found. 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 palm]]s grow plentifully in Dhofar and [[Frankincense]] grows in the hills. [[Oleander]] and varieties of [[Acacia]] abound.
[[Indigenous]] [[mammal]]s include the [[Leopard]], [[Hyena]], [[Fox]], [[Wolf]], and [[Hare]], [[Oryx]], [[Ibex]], [[Tahr]]. Birds include the [[Vulture]], [[Eagle]], [[Stork]], [[Bustard]], Arabian [[Partridge]], [[bee eater|Bee Eater]], [[Falcon]] and [[Sunbird]].
===Environment===
Maintaining an adequate supply of water for agricultural and domestic use is Oman's most pressing environmental problem. The nation has limited [[renewable]] [[water resources]], with 94% used in farming and 2% for industrial activity. Drinking water is available throughout the country, either piped or delivered. Both drought and limited rainfall contribute to shortages in the nation's water supply. The nation's soil has shown increased levels of salinity. Pollution of beaches and other coastal areas by oil tanker traffic through the [[Strait of Hormuz]] and [[Gulf of Oman]] is also a persistent problem.
In 2001, the nation had nine [[endangered species]] of [[mammals]] and five [[endangered]] types of [[bird]]. Nineteen [[plant species]] are also threatened with extinction. Decrees have been passed to protect endangered species, which include the [[Arabian Leopard]] [[leopard]], [[Arabian oryx]], [[mountain gazelle]], [[goitered gazelle]], [[Arabian tahr]], [[green sea turtle]], [[hawksbill turtle]] and [[olive ridley turtle]].
==Demographics==
{{main|Demographics of Oman}}
{| width="30%" style="toc: 25em; font-size: 85%; lucida grande, sans-serif; text-align: left;" class="infobox"
|-
!align="center" bgcolor="lightblue" colspan="2"|<big>Demographics of Oman</big>
|-
!style="background:#f0f0f0;" align="left" valign="top"|Languages
|style="background:#f0f0f0;" valign="top"| Arabic, Swahili, Urdu and English
|-
!align="left" valign="top"|Religions
|valign="top"| Islam
|-
!style="background:#f0f0f0;" align="left" valign="top"|Ethnic groups
|style="background:#f0f0f0;" valign="top"|Arab, South Asian and African
|-
!style="background:#f0f0f0;" align="left" valign="top"|Life expectancy
|style="background:#f0f0f0;" valign="top"|73.13 years
|-
| align="center" bgcolor="lightblue" colspan="2"|
|}
The Ministry of Economy estimates that in mid 2006 the total population was 2.577 million. Of those, 1.844 million were Omanis. The population has grown from 2.018 million in the 1993 census to 2.340 million in the 2003 census.In [[Oman]], about 50% of the population lives in [[Muscat, Oman|Muscat]] and the [[Batinah|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 expatriates live in Oman, most of whom are guest workers from [[Pakistan]], [[Bangladesh]], [[Egypt]], [[Jordan]], [[India]] and the [[Philippines]].
Of total population, about 55% are [[Ibadi]] Muslims who are related to the early [[Kharajites]]. Sunnis account for 38% of the population while Shia Jaffaris are 4%. The remaining 3% of the population are Hindus, Christians and other minorities, most of whom are expatriates.<ref name="pop">{{cite web| url=https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/mu.html| title=Oman| work=World Factbook| publisher=CIA| accessdate=2007-11-14}}</ref>
{{OMPop|left
|1890 = 200000
|1900 = 214000
|1910 = 249000
|1920 = 290000
|1930 = 337000
|1940 = 392000
|1950 = 413000
|1960 = 505000
|1970 = 654000
|1980 = 1060000
|1990 = 1625000
|2000 = 2402000
|estyear = 2008
|estimate = 3204000
}}
==Economy==
{{main|Economy of Oman}}
{| width="30%" style="toc: 25em; font-size: 85%; lucida grande, sans-serif; text-align: left;" class="infobox"
|-
!align="center" bgcolor="lightblue" colspan="2"|<big>Economy of Oman</big>
|-
|-
!align="center" bgcolor="#f0f0f0 colspan="2"|[[Image:Ruwi CBD.jpg|285px|The Central Bank of Oman]]
|-
!style="background:#f0f0f0;" align="left" valign="top"|Currency
|style="background:#f0f0f0;" valign="top"| [[Omani Riyal]] (R$, OMR)
|-
!align="left" valign="top"|Fiscal year
|valign="top"| Calendar year
|-
!style="background:#f0f0f0;" align="left" valign="top"|Central Bank
|style="background:#f0f0f0;" valign="top"| [[Central Bank of Oman]]
|-
!style="background:#f0f0f0;" align="left" valign="top"|Stock Market
|style="background:#f0f0f0;" valign="top"| [http://www.msm.gov.om Muscat Stock Market]
|-
| align="center" bgcolor="lightblue" colspan="2"|
|}
Omani citizens enjoy good [[Standard of living|living standards]], but the future is uncertain with Oman's limited oil reserves. The other sources of income, [[agriculture]] and local industries, are small in comparison and count for less than 1% of the country's exports. Agriculture, often [[subsistence]] in its character, produces [[Dates]], [[Limes]], [[Grains]] and [[vegetable]]s. Less than 1% of the country is under [[cultivation]] but, in general, food has to be imported. Industries contribute only with 4%, but there are governmental plans to increase this.
Oil production is extracted and processed by Petroleum Development. Oil reserves are limited though and the proven reserves will run out in few years time.{{Fact|date=June 2008}} Oman has other mineral resources including [[Copper]], [[Asbestos]] and [[Marble]], but this is little exploited.
===Oil and Gas===
{{main|Oil and Gas in Oman}}
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, [[Petroleum Development Oman|PDO]] discovered a new oil field in southern Oman after drilling and testing three wells which demonstrated the commercial viability of the reservoir. This is the most significant find in five years. Work is continuing on the RO 503.876 million ( US$1,300 million ) oil refinery project in Sohar, which was due to go into operation in 2006 with a 116,400 barrels a day refining capacity. In 2004, Oman Oil Refinery was supplied with about 78,200 barrels a day for refining, while [[PDO]] began using steam injection technology in several wells to increase their productivity.
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]] and [[natural gas]]. 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]]."
===Mineral Resources===
{{main|Mineral Resources in Oman}}
Oman's mineral resources include [[chromite]], [[dolomite]], [[zinc]], [[limestone]], [[gypsum]], [[silicon]], [[copper]], [[gold]], [[cobalt]] and [[iron]], to name but a few. 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.
Copper has been mined in Oman for thousands of years. The mineral sector’s operations include mining and quarrying. Several projects have recently been 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 in [[Ghala]] in the Governorate of Muscat.
===Industry===
{{main|Industry in Oman}}
The industrial sector is a cornerstone of the Sultanate’s long-term (1996-2020) development strategy. Industry is not only one of the main sectors involved in 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. Under its strategy for the industrial sector the government also aims 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 is also an [[industrial estate]] in [[Sohar]] - where the Sultanate’s heavy industries are based - as well as other estates in Sur, Salalah, Nizwa and Buraimi. [[Natural gas]] is transported to the industrial estates in Sohar and Salalah, helping to promote expansion of those industries that depend on natural gas; the government grants these industries tax exemptions, as an incentive to encourage their expansion and development. By 2020 the industrial sector is expected to contribute 15% to the country’s GDP.
===Development Plans===
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, a vision of Oman's economic future up to the year 2020 was set out at the end of the first phase of the country's development 1970-1995. Vision 2020, outlined 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:</br>
* 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 globalise the Omani economy
* To upgrade the skills of the Omani workforce and develop human resources
===Tourism===
{{main|Tourism in Oman}}
[[Image:Bustan-palace.jpg|thumb|280px|left|Al-Bustan Palace Hotel]]
Oman is known for its popular tourist attractions. [[Wadi]]s, deserts, beaches, and mountains are areas which make Oman unique to its neighboring [[Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf|GCC]] nations (Wadis in particular). Jebel Shams is Oman's tallest mountain, highest point, and is a popular destination for camping. Most of the major malls are located in [[Muscat, Oman|Muscat]], the capital. The largest mall in the country is the Muscat City Centre which was built by Majid hFuttaim, an Emirati business man. Other popular tourist activities include sand skiing in the desert, mountain-climbing, camel racing, and camping.
The Muscat Festival is usually held at the beginning of every year. During this event, traditional dances are held, temporary theme parks open, and concerts take place. Another popular event is the Khareef Festival, which is similar to Muscat Festival; however it is held in August in [[Salalah]], [[Dhofar]]. During this latter event, mountains are packed as a result of the cool breeze weather during that period of time which rarely occurs in Muscat.
===Labor===
The estimated workforce was 920,000 in 2002. A large proportion of the 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 [[India]], [[Pakistan]], the [[Philippines]], [[Bangladesh]], and [[Sri Lanka]] — foreign laborers constituted over 80% of the modern-sector workforce in 1996.
Omani law does not provide the right of [[Trade Unionism|union]] formation. The law forbids a strike for any reason. [[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.
The minimum working age is 13, but this provision is not enforced against the employment of children in family businesses or on family farms. The minimum wage for non-professional workers was $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.
===Inflation===
As [[oil price]]s 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.
In 2006, government employee salaries were increased by 15%, placing Oman in the category of high-medium income countries.{{Fact|date=December 2007}} and a year after increase employees' were also increased in salaries so, employees with low wages have a higher increase that may go up to 48% and employees who earn more get a lesser increase in their salaries which end at 5%.
The minimum wage has been changed from 120 Rial a month to 140 Rials because of high records of inflation driven by high prices of oil.
==Education==
{{main|Education in Oman}}
Before 1970, only three formal schools existed in the whole country with less than 1000 students receiving eduction 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. Other post secondary institutions include a law school, technical college, banking institute, teachers training college, and health sciences institute. Some 200 scholarships are awarded each year for study abroad.
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 2-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.
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 at3.9% 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.
===Science and technology===
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, founded in 1984, has departments of computing and mathematics, laboratory science, and electrical, construction, and mechanical engineering. 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.
==Health==
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, 39% of the population had access to safe drinking water and 92% had adequate sanitation.
Average life expectancy in 2000 was 74 years. Infant mortality was 17 per 1,000 live births. As of 2002, the crude birth rate and overall mortality rate were estimated at, respectively, 37.8 and 4 per 1,000 people. About 24% of married women (ages 15 to 49) were using contraception in 2000. The fertility rate was 4.3 children per woman living through her childbearing years.
In 1995, children up to one year old were vaccinated against tuberculosis, 96%; diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus, 99%; polio, 99%; measles, 98%; and hepatitis B, 99%. As of 1999, the rates for DPT and measles were, respectively, 86% and 99%. About 12% of children under five were malnourished as of 1999 and goiter was prevalent in 10% of school-age children.
There were only 59 AIDS cases reported in 1996. The HIV-1 prevalence rate was 0.1 per 100 adults in 1999.
==Culture==
{{main|Culture of Oman}}
{{seealso|Islam in Oman|Music of Oman|Cinema of Oman}}
Although Arabic is Oman's official language, there are native speakers of different dialects, as well as Balochi (the language of the Baloch from Pakistan), or offshoots of [[Southern Arabian]], a Semitic language only distantly related to Arabic, but closely related to [[Semitic]] languages in [[Eritrea]] and [[Ethiopia]]. Swahili and French 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 (language)|English]] as a second language. Almost all signs and writings appear in both Arabic and English. A significant number also speak Hindi, due to the influx of Indian migrants during the late 1980s and the 1990s.
Oman is famous for its [[khanjar]] knives, which are curved daggers worn during holidays as part of ceremonial dress. Today traditional clothing is worn by most Omani men. They wear 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 [[hijab]]s and [[abaya]]s. Some women cover their faces and hands, but most do not. The abaya is a traditional dress and it is currently having different styles. The Sultan has forbidden the covering of faces in public office. 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 pants.
A very important part of Omani culture is hospitality. If invited into an Omani house, a visitor is likely to be greeted with a bowl of [[dates]], qahwa (coffee with [[cardamom]] - standard Arabic قهوة) and fruit. The coffee is served fairly weak in a small cup, which should be shaken after three servings to show that you have finished. The dates are in lieu of sugar. Halwa and other sweets are often given at celebrations such as Eids.
===Food===
{{main|Cuisine of Oman}}
The Cuisine of Oman is fairly simple and often utilizes marinades and the impregnating of meats with spices. Chicken, fish, and mutton are regularly used in dishes. A favorite drink is laban, a salty, buttermilk yogurt drink, flavored with [[cardamom]]. Dates, dry fruits and pistachio nuts are also very popular.
===Male national dress===
[[Image:Man in traditional Omani garb.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Omani man in Nizwa]]
The national dress for Omani men is a simple, ankle-length, collarless gown with long sleeves called the [[dishdasha]]. Underneath the dishdasha, a plain piece of cloth covering the body is worn from the waist down. Omani men may wear a variety of head dresses. The mussar is a square of finely woven woollen or cotton fabric, wrapped and folded into a [[turban]]. Underneath this, the kummah, an intricately embroidered cap, is sometimes worn. The shal, a long strip of cloth acting as a holder for the [[khanjar]] may be made from the same material as the mussar. Alternatively, the holder may be fashioned in the former of a belt made from leather and silver. On formal occasions, the dishdasha may be covered by a black or beige cloak, called a [[bisht]]. The embroidery edging the cloak is often in silver or gold thread and it is intricate in detail. Some men carry the a stick, which can have practical uses or is simply used as an accessory during formal events.
===Female national dress===
Omani women have very colourful costumes which vary from region to region. The main components of a woman's outfit comprise a dress which is worn over trousers (haaf) and the headdress, called the lihaf or hijab.
There are numerous traditional styles of Omani costume seen in Muscat. However, there are three main types which show vibrant colours, embroidery and decorations. One style of costume is rather flowing and resembles that worn by the women of the [[Interior]], while another is decorated with distinctive silver bands. The embroidery on these dresses can take around two months to complete.
In the Dhofar region, the dress is known as the "Abu Dhail" which means 'one with a tail'. This dress is shorter at the front than at the rear and is made from luxurious velvet or cotton, shot with gold and silver embroidery, beads and sequins. It has a square neckline and is generally worn with a lightweight, cotton or silk sh'ela "head dress" which may also be sewn with pearls, sequins and sometimes small gold coins for special celebrations. Elaborate jewellery is often worn with this dress, around the head, neck, wrists, ankles, fingers and toes. Older ladies, originating from the desert and the mountains may do so.
=== Sport ===
{| width="30%" style="toc: 25em; font-size: 85%; lucida grande, sans-serif; text-align: left;" class="infobox"
|-
!align="center" bgcolor="lightblue" colspan="2"|<big>Sports of Oman</big>
|-
!style="background:#f0f0f0;" align="left" valign="top"| Popular Sport
|style="background:#f0f0f0;" valign="top"| Football, hockey
|-
!align="left" valign="top"| National Team Sports
|valign="top"| 5
|-
!style="background:#f0f0f0;" align="left" valign="top"| National Clubs
|style="background:#f0f0f0;" valign="top"| 48
|-
!style="background:#f0f0f0;" align="left" valign="top"| Colors
|style="background:#f0f0f0;" valign="top"| Red , White
|-
| align="center" bgcolor="lightblue" colspan="2"|
|}
{{Main|Sport in Oman}}
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 Organisation for Youth, Sports and Cultural Affairs.
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, Hockey, Volleyball, Athletics, Swimming, and Tennis Associations.
In 2010 Muscat will host the 2010 Asian Beach Games for the first time.
==Challenges==
Oman's political challenges are primarily around succession plans. The democratic institutions and processes are still in early development and have not experienced real power. There is some risk of destabilization by radicals backed by militant groups or rogue states.
Oman's Musandam peninsula is a strategic asset which may become contested in future. Strong military ties with the [[United States]] and the [[Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf|GCC]] countries helps maintain stability. The growing power of [[Iran]] is a concern.
The demographic challenges are, like in other [[Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf|GCC]] countries, that a large proportion of the population are non-citizens.
The economic challenge is over-dependence on [[oil]]. While this is a benefit during oil price spikes, it is a risk during downturns. Oman's economy has not diversified to the extent neighboring [[UAE]] has.
==See also==
{{columns
|width=220px
|col1 =
* [[List of cities in Oman|Cities in Oman]]
* [[Communications in Oman]]
* [[Foreign relations of Oman]]
* [[Human rights in Oman]]
* [[Transport in Oman]]
|col2 =
* [[Tourism in Oman]]
* [[The National Organisation for Scouts and Guides|Scouting and Guiding in Oman]]
* ''[[Theweek]]''
* [[Cyclone Gonu]]
}}
==References==
{{reflist}}
==External links==
===Government===
*[http://www.omanet.om Ministry of Information]
*[http://www.mofa.gov.om Ministry of Foreign Affairs]
*[http://www.omantourism.gov.om Oman Tourism Portal]
*[http://www.statecouncil.gov.om State Council]
*[http://www.shura.om Majlis As-shura]
*[http://www.siteoman.com About Oman]
===Media===
*[http://www.omannews.gov.om Oman News Agency]
*[http://www.oman-tv.gov.om/ Oman state TV and Radio]
*[http://www.omandaily.com Oman newspaper]
*[http://www.alwatan.com Al-Watan newspaper]
*[http://www.shabiba.com Al-Shabiba newspaper]
*[http://www.azzamn.net Azzamn newspaper]
*[http://www.timesofoman.com Times of Oman]
*[http://www.omantribune.com Oman Tribune]
*[http://www.omanobserver.com Oman Observer]
*[http://www.theweek.co.om The Week]
===General information===
*[http://omanwhs.gov.om/Default.htm Omani sites on the world heritage list]
*[http://www.britannica.com/nations/Oman Encyclopaedia Britannica, ''Oman'' - Country Page]
*[http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/world/middle_east/country_profiles/791892.stm BBC News Country Profile - ''Oman'']
*[https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/mu.html CIA World Factbook - ''Oman'']
*[http://digital.library.unt.edu/govdocs/crs/search.tkl?q=oman&search_crit=subject&search=Search&date1=Anytime&date2=Anytime&type=form Congressional Research Service (CRS) Reports regarding Oman]
*[http://dmoz.org/Regional/Middle_East/Oman Open Directory Project - ''Oman''] directory category
*[http://www.state.gov/p/nea/ci/c2417.htm US State Department - ''Oman''] includes Background Notes, Country Study and major reports
*[http://dir.yahoo.com/Regional/Countries/Oman Yahoo! - ''Oman''] directory category
*[http://www.omanholiday.co.uk/ Oman Travel & Tourism]
{{Template group
|title = Geographic locale
|list =
{{Countries and territories of the Middle East}}
{{Countries of Southwest Asia}}
{{Countries of Asia}}
{{Countries bordering the Persian Gulf}}
{{Countries and territories bordering the Indian Ocean}}
}}
{{Template group
|title = International membership
|list =
{{Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (CCASG)}}
{{Member states of the Arab League}}
{{Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC)|state=collapsed}}
{{Monarchies|state=collapsed}}
{{Afro-Asiatic-speaking nations}}
}}
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[[Category:Oman| ]]
[[Category:Arab League member states]]
[[Category:Arabia]]
[[Category:Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf member states]]
[[Category:Middle Eastern countries]]
[[Category:Arabic-speaking countries]]
[[Category:Sultanates]]
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