Introduction to Oman

Quick Overview

The Sultanate of Oman is a Middle Eastern country on the Arabian Peninsula, bordered by the United Arab Emirates to the north, Yemen to the south, and Saudi Arabia to the west.

Key Facts

• Type of place: country.

• Location: at the eastern tip of Arabia, on the Gulf and the Sea of Oman.

• Latitude/longitude: 23°36' N, 58°37' E.

• Local time: Heure : 12805

• Capital: Muscat.

• Nature of the state: absolute monarchy.

• Official language: Arabic.

• Currency: Omani rial.

• Population: 3,494,116 inhabitants (2018).

• Area: 309,500 km².

• Density: 11.5 inhabitants/km².

• Highest point: Jabal Shams (3,075 m).

• Lowest point: sea level.

• Coastline: 3,165 km.

• Driving: on the right.

Tourism

Oman isn’t the most talked-about country in the region, but it’s one of the most interesting for travelers, with its stunning mountain and desert landscapes perfect for adventure, historic sites, and a culture shaped by its position between Europe, Asia, and East Africa.

Over time, Oman has seen its visitor numbers gradually rise, surpassing 2 million annually (2.372 million in 2017). Among these, India, the UK, Pakistan, Germany, the US, and France (around 60,000 in 2018) are the most represented, though for some Asian countries, their nationals primarily come for work.

Travel Essentials

• Destination: for beginner to somewhat experienced travelers.

• By air: France-Muscat.

• Entry requirements: passport valid at least 6 months after entry date + visa on arrival.

• Currency to bring:

• Exchange rate:

• Daily backpacker budget:

• Best for accommodation:

• Best for getting around:

• Risks:

• Best time for climate/crowds/prices:

• Highlights (out of ★★★★): Nature ★★★/ ★★★★; Adventure ★★★★; Culture ★★; Relaxation/holidays ★

Useful Addresses

Socio-Economic Statistics

• "Quality of life": 48/188 (2018 ranking)

• GDP per capita: $46,000 (2017)

• Average monthly income: ()

• Inflation: +1.6% (2018)

• "Official" unemployment: ()

• Population below poverty line: ()

• Life expectancy: 75.9 years (2018)

• Migration rate per 1,000 inhabitants: -0.4 (2017)

• Population growth: +2% (2018)

• Literacy rate: 91.1% (2015)

• Urban population: 77.6% (2016)

• Press freedom: 127/180 (2018 ranking)

• Political regime: authoritarian regime (140/167 in 2018)

Sources: World Bank, Human Development Indicators, RSF, The Economist, The World Factbook