“We believe in peace and work tirelessly for it. We call for stronger bonds of friendship with all.”
Sultan Qaboos
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Population
Area
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Religions
Ibadite Islam 85.9%
Sunni, Shia, Hindu, and Christian minorities
GDP (nominal)
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Political system
De facto independent in 1951, Oman remained for a long time an isolated and fragmented state, marked by internal rebellions, particularly in Dhofar, near Yemen. The rise to power of Qaboos bin Said in 1970 marked a decisive turning point: he unified the country and embarked on a rapid modernization of the administration, infrastructure, education, and healthcare. The sultanate remains an absolute monarchy without political pluralism, but enjoys institutional stability based on tribal and religious consensus. The economy, historically dependent on hydrocarbons, has been undergoing gradual diversification since the 2000s, while Omani diplomacy is characterized by active neutrality and a mediating role, particularly between Tehran and Washington.
Sultan since 2020, Haitham bin Tariq al-Said continues the policy of regional neutrality initiated by his predecessor Qaboos. He is focusing on economic diversification through the Vision Oman 2040 plan to reduce dependence on hydrocarbons. The country remains a discreet but influential diplomatic actor through its role as a mediator. Domestically, it is attempting to ease social tensions linked to unemployment. Its leadership is based on stability and moderation.
