Interesting Information about Oman

Oman has been self-governing since the invasions of Portugal and Persia in the 16th and 17th century.

The head of state and government is the Sultan of Oman, Qaboos Bin Said Al Said.

Oman is divided into 9 governorates and regions, all of which have the same culture and habits. Most of the population speak the same dialects of Arabic.

The total population of Oman is estimated at 3.2 million, 71% of which are Omanis. 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.

Oman is a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), an economic block including Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain and the UAE.

Oman's principal source of income is oil. However, the country is diversifying its economy, placing greater emphasis on sectors such as tourism and natural gas.

The coastal port of Sohar is the alleged birthplace of the legendary Sinbad the Sailor.

Until 1970, there were only three formal schools in Oman with fewer than 1,000 students receiving education. Since Sultan Qaboos came to power in 1970, high priority has been given to education. Today there are more than 1,000 state schools and approximately 650,000 students. Oman’s first university opened in 1986.

The currency of Oman is the Riyal.