festivites
Here are some of the major festivities and holidays in Oman:
1. Eid al-Fitr: This is a religious holiday celebrated at the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting for Muslims. It's a time for families to gather, exchange gifts and enjoy traditional food. The celebration usually lasts for three days and is marked by prayer, charity, and feasting.
2. National Day: Celebrated on November 18th, this holiday marks Oman's independence from Portugal in 1650. The festivities usually include parades, fireworks, and cultural events across the country.
3. Renaissance Day: Celebrated on July 23rd, this holiday commemorates the day when Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said took power in 1970 and transformed Oman into a modern state. The day is marked by patriotic rallies, cultural events, and fireworks.
4. Prophet Muhammad's Birthday: This holiday, also known as Mawlid al-Nabi, commemorates the birthday of Islam's founder and prophet, Prophet Muhammad. It's celebrated with prayers, recitation of hymns, and the distribution of sweets and food.
5. Isra'a Wal Miraj: This holiday commemorates the night journey of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Jerusalem and his ascension to heaven. It's observed with special prayers and sermons at mosques across the country.
These holidays are celebrated throughout Oman, with various customs and traditions unique to each region and community.
seasons
In Oman, the tourist season can be classified into three main periods:
1. High Season (October to March): This is the peak tourist season in Oman when the weather is cooler and more pleasant. The temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C during the day and around 15°C at night. This is an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and exploring the desert. It is also a great time to visit Muscat and other coastal cities.
2. Shoulder Season (April to May and September): During these months, the weather starts getting warmer, but it's still comfortable enough to enjoy many outdoor activities. The temperatures range from 30°C to 35°C during the day and around 20°C at night. This period is less crowded than the high season, and prices are usually lower.
3. Low Season (June to August): This is the hottest and most humid period in Oman, with temperatures reaching up to 45°C during the day. Many tourists avoid visiting Oman during this time, but if you can handle the heat, you'll find fewer crowds and better deals on accommodation and tours. However, outdoor activities may not be suitable due to the extreme heat.
Recommendations:
- If you're planning to visit Oman during the high season, make sure to book your accommodations and tours well in advance as they tend to get booked up quickly.
- For the shoulder season, bring light clothing and sunscreen as the sun can be intense during the day.
- In the low season, stay hydrated and avoid direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day.
visa
As of my knowledge cutoff date of September 2021, the following were the special visa rules for citizens of certain countries visiting Oman:
1. Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries do not need a visa to visit Oman.
2. Citizens of 103 other countries including the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom may obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at the airport in Oman. The cost of the visa is OMR20 (approximately USD52).
3. Citizens of India, China, and Russia are required to obtain a tourist visa before traveling to Oman. The cost of the visa varies depending on the duration of stay and processing time, but it is generally around OMR20-30 (approximately USD52-78).
4. Citizens of some African and Asian countries are required to obtain a visa through a sponsor in Oman. The cost of this type of visa can vary depending on the sponsor and the type of visa, but it is generally more expensive than a tourist visa.
Please note that visa rules can change frequently, so it is advisable to check with the Embassy or Consulate of Oman in your country for up-to-date information.
souvenirs
1. Omani Frankincense - prices range from 5 OMR to 50 OMR depending on the quality and size. You can buy it at various souqs (markets) in Oman, such as Muttrah Souq in Muscat or Nizwa Souq in Nizwa.
2. Khanjar (Omani dagger) - prices range from 20 OMR to 500 OMR depending on the quality and design. You can buy it at specialized shops in Muttrah Souq in Muscat or at Nizwa Souq in Nizwa.
3. Omani Halwa - prices range from 6 OMR to 20 OMR per kilogram. It is available at any Omani traditional sweet shop, including popular ones like Al Saif Dates in Muscat.
4. Omani textiles and fabrics - prices vary depending on the item and quality, but expect to pay around 10 OMR to 30 OMR for a scarf or shawl. You can find these items at markets such as Muttrah Souq in Muscat or in traditional textile shops in Sur.
5. Silver jewelry - prices vary depending on the item and design, but expect to pay around 20 OMR to 100 OMR for a piece of jewelry. You can find silver jewelry in specialized shops in Muttrah Souq in Muscat or in Nizwa.
Please note that prices may vary depending on the location and vendor, and these are just average estimates. It's always a good idea to bargain while shopping in Oman!
If you have 1 week
🔒CLASSIC
Oman is a beautiful country with many interesting things to see and do. Here is a one-week itinerary that will allow you to experience some of the best it has to offer:
Day 1: Muscat City Tour - Start your trip with a city tour of Muscat, Oman's capital. Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Then, head to Muttrah Souq, a traditional marketplace where you can find souvenirs, spices, and more. Finish your day at the Al Alam Palace, the ceremonial palace of Sultan Qaboos, which is surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Day 2: Nizwa Fort and Jabrin Castle - Take a day trip to Nizwa, located in the interior of Oman. On the way, stop at the Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Nizwa, visit the Nizwa Fort, an impressive castle that dates back to the 17th century. Then, continue to Jabrin Castle, another historic fortress that is well-preserved and features intricate carvings and paintings.
Day 3: Wahiba Sands Desert Experience - Head out to the desert for a unique adventure. The Wahiba Sands are home to towering sand dunes and stunning vistas. You can take a camel ride or go sandboarding, and then spend the night camping under the stars.
Day 4: Wadi Bani Khalid - After your desert experience, head to Wadi Bani Khalid, a beautiful oasis in the middle of the mountains. You can swim in the crystal-clear pools, hike along the canyon walls, and take in the stunning natural scenery.
Day 5: Sur and Ras al Jinz - Travel to the coastal town of Sur, known for its traditional boat-building industry. Watch the skilled craftsmen at work and then explore the town's historic architecture. In the evening, head to Ras al Jinz, a protected turtle reserve where you can see endangered green turtles nesting on the beach.
Day 6: Jebel Shams - Visit Jebel Shams, Oman's highest mountain peak. Take in the stunning views from the top and then hike along the nearby trails. You can also visit the village of Misfat al Abryeen, located nearby, which features traditional mud-brick houses and lush terraced gardens.
Day 7: Daymaniyat Islands - Finish your trip with a visit to the Daymaniyat Islands, a protected marine reserve that is home to a wide variety of sea life. Go snorkeling or diving to see colorful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins.
🔓JAILBREAK
Oh, Oman, the land of wonders and natural beauty! You are lucky to be there, my friend! Here are some amazing spots to check out:
Day 1: Get ready for an unforgettable adventure! Head straight to Misfat Al Abriyeen and hike down through the terraces alongside the falaj channels. The village is well-preserved and showcases the old Omani architectural style.
Day 2: Make your way to Wadi Bani Khalid, one of the most breathtaking natural reserves in Oman. Enjoy a swim in the turquoise pools and explore hidden waterfalls.
Day 3: Get ready to take on the vast and stunning Wahiba Sands desert. Experience the thrill of dune bashing, sandboarding, or simply enjoy the silence and peace of this vast landscape.
Day 4: Explore the ancient city of Nizwa, famous for its bazaar, pottery, and silver jewelry. Then, drive to Jabal Akhdar and experience Oman's "Grand Canyon" by taking a scenic hike along its rocky trails.
Day 5: Spend a day exploring Muscat's rich cultural heritage. Visit the Royal Opera House and immerse yourself in Oman's rich musical tradition. Then, head to the lively Muttrah Souq for a shopping spree.
Day 6: Have you ever swam with turtles? Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve is the perfect spot to do so! You can witness the nesting of these beautiful creatures on the beach, and even see baby turtles hatching!
Day 7: Head over to Jebel Shams, which means "Sun Mountain" and offers stunning views from the top of Oman's highest peak. On the way back, stop by the Bimmah Sinkhole, a natural wonder that offers swimming opportunities in pristine blue waters.
There you have it! A week of adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery awaits you! Explore Oman like never before and make memories that will last a lifetime!
If you have 2 weeks
🔒CLASSIC: It would be my pleasure to suggest a two week itinerary for your travels! Oman is an absolutely stunning country with so much to offer. Here are some suggestions for your itinerary:
Day 1-3: Muscat
You should start your trip in the capital city of Muscat. There is a lot to explore, such as the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Al Alam Palace, and Muttrah Souq. You should also visit the Bait Al Zubair Museum, which showcases Omani heritage and culture.
Day 4-5: Wahiba Sands Desert
From Muscat, you should head to the awe-inspiring Wahiba Sands desert. You can experience a traditional Bedouin lifestyle, dune bashing, and camel riding. It's a truly unforgettable experience!
Day 6-7: Nizwa
Next, you should explore the ancient city of Nizwa. This city is famous for its traditional souqs, the magnificent Nizwa Fort, and the Jabreen Castle. You can also hike in the nearby Jebel Akhdar mountains.
Day 8-10: Salalah
After Nizwa, you should head south to the coastal city of Salalah. The city is famous for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and lush greenery. You should also take a trip to the Frankincense Land Museum and learn about the history of frankincense production.
Day 11-12: Sur
Sur is a small port town situated on the coast of Oman. It offers a perfect blend of Omani culture and natural beauty. Sur is also known for its dhow-making industry, and you can see these traditional boats being made at the Dhow Factory.
Day 13-14: Ras al-Jinz Turtle Reserve
Finally, you should head to the Ras al-Jinz Turtle Reserve. This reserve is home to five of the world's seven species of sea turtles. You can observe these magnificent creatures laying their eggs and hatching, which is truly an awe-inspiring experience.
🔓JAILBREAK: Whoa, Oman is such a hidden gem! I can't believe more people aren't flocking there. Here's what I suggest for your itinerary:
Day 1-3: Muscat
Muscat is cool, but why not kick off your trip with a bang? Head straight to the Al Hoota Cave near Nizwa. It's like stepping into another world—one where stalactites and stalagmites rule supreme!
Day 4-5: Wadi Shab
After exploring Nizwa, head to Wadi Shab. This stunning canyon sits on the coast and has crystal-clear blue-green water. You can hike through the canyon, swim in the water, and check out the waterfalls. Bliss!
Day 6-7: Al Rustaq
Al Rustaq hasn't caught on with tourists yet, so it's the perfect place to escape the crowds. There are hot springs, mud volcanoes, and forts to explore. If you're lucky, you might even spot a wild camel!
Day 8-10: Empty Quarter
Next up, head south to the Empty Quarter—the largest stretch of sand in the world. You can camp in the desert, go sandboarding, and stargaze at night. The stars are so bright, it's like they're right in front of you!
Day 11-12: Mirbat
Mirbat is a sleepy coastal village that's totally worth checking out. The beach here is secluded and peaceful, with some of the clearest waters you've ever seen. Plus, there are some great seafood restaurants in town.
Day 13-14: Jebel Shams
Finally, end your trip with a bang by visiting Jebel Shams—the tallest mountain in Oman. You can hike to the top and take in some epic views. Plus, there are some great camping spots up there if you want to sleep under the stars!
Culture
Outwardly, Oman shares many of the cultural characteristics of its Arab neighbours, particularly those in the Gulf Cooperation Council. Despite these similarities, important factors make Oman unique in the Middle East. These result as much from geography and history as from culture and economics. The relatively recent and artificial nature of the state in Oman makes it difficult to describe a national culture; however, sufficient cultural heterogeneity exists within its national boundaries to make Oman distinct from other Arab States of the Persian Gulf. Oman's cultural diversity is greater than that of its Arab neighbours, given its historical expansion to the Swahili Coast and the Indian Ocean.
Oman has a long tradition of shipbuilding, as maritime travel played a major role in the Omanis' ability to stay in contact with the civilisations of the ancient world. Sur was one of the most famous shipbuilding cities of the Indian Ocean. The Al Ghanja ship takes one whole year to build. Other types of Omani ship include As Sunbouq and Al Badan.
In March 2016 archaeologists working off Al Hallaniyah Island identified a shipwreck believed to be that of the Esmeralda from Vasco da Gama's 1502–1503 fleet. The wreck was initially discovered in 1998. Later underwater excavations took place between 2013 and 2015 through a partnership between the Oman Ministry of Heritage and Culture and Blue Water Recoveries Ltd., a shipwreck recovery company. The vessel was identified through such artifacts as a "Portuguese coin minted for trade with India (one of only two coins of this type known to exist) and stone cannonballs engraved with what appear to be the initials of Vincente Sodré, da Gama's maternal uncle and the commander of the Esmeralda."
The male national dress in Oman consists of the dishdasha, a simple, ankle-length, collarless gown with long sleeves. Most frequently white in colour, the dishdasha may also appear in a variety of other colours. Its main adornment, a tassel (furakha) sewn into the neckline, can be impregnated with perfume. Underneath the dishdasha, men wear a plain, wide strip of cloth wrapped around the body from the waist down. The most noted regional differences in dishdasha designs are the style with which they are embroidered, which varies according to age group. On formal occasions a black or beige cloak called a bisht may cover the dishdasha. The embroidery edging the cloak is often in silver or gold thread and it is intricate in detail.
Omani men wear two types of headdress:
* the ghutra, also called "Musar" a square piece of woven wool or cotton fabric of a single colour, decorated with various embroidered patterns.
* the kummah, a cap that is the head dress worn during leisure hours.
Some men carry the assa, a stick, which can have practical uses or is simply used as an accessory during formal events. Omani men, on the whole, wear sandals on their feet.
The khanjar (dagger) forms part of the national dress and men wear the khanjar on all formal public occasions and festivals. It is traditionally worn at the waist. Sheaths may vary from simple covers to ornate silver or gold-decorated pieces. It is a symbol of a man's origin, his manhood and courage. A depiction of a khanjar appears on the national flag.
Omani women wear eye-catching national costumes, with distinctive regional variations. All costumes incorporate vivid colours and vibrant embroidery and decorations. In the past, the choice of colours reflected a tribe's tradition. The Omani women's traditional costume comprises several garments: the kandoorah, which is a long tunic whose sleeves or radoon are adorned with hand-stitched embroidery of various designs. The dishdasha is worn over a pair of loose fitting trousers, tight at the ankles, known as a sirwal. Women also wear a head shawl most commonly referred to as the lihaf.
women reserve wearing their traditional dress for special occasions, and instead wear a loose black cloak called an abaya over their personal choice of clothing, whilst in some regions, particularly amongst the Bedouin, the burqa is still worn. Women wear hijab, and though some women cover their faces and hands, most do not. The Sultan has forbidden the covering of faces in public office.
Music of Oman is extremely diverse due to Oman's imperial legacy. There are over 130 different forms of traditional Omani songs and dances. The Oman Centre for Traditional Music was established in 1984 to preserve them. In 1985, Sultan Qaboos founded the Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra. Instead of engaging foreign musicians, he decided to establish an orchestra made up of Omanis. On 1 July 1987 at the Al Bustan Palace Hotel's Oman Auditorium the Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra gave its inaugural concert. The cinema of Oman is very small, there being only one Omani film Al-Boom (2006). Oman Arab Cinema Company LLC is the single largest motion picture exhibitor chain in Oman. It belongs to the Jawad Sultan Group of Companies, which has a history spanning more than 40 years in the Sultanate of Oman. In popular music, a seven-minute music video about Oman went viral, achieving 500,000 views on YouTube within 10 days of being released on YouTube in November 2015. The a cappella production features three of the region's most popular talents: Kahliji musician Al Wasmi, Omani poet Mazin Al-Haddabi and actress Buthaina Al Raisi.
The government has continuously held a monopoly on television in Oman. Oman TV is the only state-owned national television channel broadcaster in Oman. It began broadcasting for the first time from Muscat on 17 November 1974 and separately from Salalah on 25 November 1975. On 1 June 1979, the two stations at Muscat and Salalah linked by satellite to form a unified broadcasting service. Oman TV broadcasts four HD channels, including Oman TV General, Oman TV Sport, Oman TV Live and Oman TV Cultural.
Although private ownership of radio and television stations is permitted, Oman has only one privately owned television channel. Majan TV is the first private TV channel in Oman. It began broadcasting in January 2009. However, Majan TV's official channel website was last updated in early 2010. Moreover, the public has access to foreign broadcasts since the use of satellite receivers is allowed.
Oman Radio is the first and only state-owned radio channel. It began broadcasting on the 30th, July 1970. It operates both Arabic and English networks. Other private channels include Hala FM, Hi FM, Al-Wisal, Virgin Radio Oman FM and Merge. In early 2018, Muscat Media Group (MMG), trend-setting media group founded by late Essa bin Mohammed Al Zedjali, launched a new private radio stations in hopes of catering educative and entertaining programmes to the youth of the Sultanate.
Oman has nine main newspapers, five in Arabic and four in English. Instead of relying on sales or state subsidies, private newspapers depend on advertising revenues to sustain themselves.
The media landscape in Oman has been continuously described as restrictive, censored, and subdued. The Ministry of Information censors politically, culturally, or sexually offensive material in domestic or foreign media. The press freedom group Reporters Without Borders ranked the country 127th out of 180 countries on its 2018 World Press Freedom Index. In 2016, the government drew international criticism for suspending the newspaper Azamn and arresting three journalists after a report on corruption in the country's judiciary. Azamn was not allowed to reopen in 2017 although an appeal court ruled in late 2016 that the paper can resume operating.
Traditional art in Oman stems from its long heritage of material culture. Art movements in the 20th century reveal that the art scene in Oman began with early practices that included a range of tribal handicrafts and self-portraiture in painting since the 1960s. However, since the inclusion of several Omani artists in international collections, art exhibitions, and events, such Alia Al Farsi, the first Omani artist to show at the last Venice Biennale and Radhika Khimji, the first Omani artist to exhibit at both the Marrakesh and Haiti Ghetto biennale, Oman's position as a newcomer to the contemporary art scene in recent years has been more important for Oman's international exposure. Bait Muzna Gallery is the first art gallery in Oman. Established in 2000 by Sayyida Susan Al Said, Bait Muzna has served as a platform for emerging Omani artists to showcase their talent and place themselves on the wider art scene. In 2016, Bait Muzna opened a second space in Salalah to branch out and support art film and the digital art scene. The gallery has been primarily active as an art consultancy.
The Sultanate's flagship cultural institution, the National Museum of Oman, opened on 30 July 2016 with 14 permanent galleries. It showcases national heritage from the earliest human settlement in Oman two million years ago through to the present day. The museum takes a further step by presenting information on the material in Arabic Braille script for the visually impaired, the first museum to do this in the Gulf region.
The Omani Society for Fine Arts, established in 1993, offers educational programmes, workshops and artist grants for practitioners across varied disciplines. In 2016, the organisation opened its first exhibition on graphic design. It also hosted the "Paint for Peace" competition with 46 artists in honour of the country's 46th National Day, where Mazin al-Mamari won the top prize. The organisation has additional branches in Sohar, Buraimi and Salalah.
Bait Al- Zubair Museum is a private, family-funded museum that opened its doors to the public in 1998. In 1999, the museum received Sultan Qaboos’ Award for Architectural Excellence. Bait Al Zubair displays the family's collection of Omani artifacts that spans a number of centuries and reflect inherited skills that define Oman's society in the past and present. Located within Bait Al-Zubair, Gallery Sarah, which opened in October 2013, offers an array of paintings and photographs by established local and international artists. The gallery also occasionally holds lectures and workshops.
Omani cuisine is diverse and has been influenced by many cultures. Omanis usually eat their main daily meal at midday, while the evening meal is lighter. During Ramadan, dinner is served after the Taraweeh prayers, sometimes as late as 11 pm. However, these dinner timings differ according to each family; for instance, some families would choose to eat right after maghrib prayers and have dessert after Taraweeh.
Arsia, a festival meal served during celebrations, consists of mashed rice and meat (sometimes chicken). Another popular festival meal, shuwa, consists of meat cooked very slowly (sometimes for up to 2 days) in an underground clay oven. The meat becomes extremely tender and it is infused with spices and herbs before cooking to give it a very distinct taste. Fish is often used in main dishes too, and the kingfish is a popular ingredient. Mashuai is a meal consisting of a whole spit-roasted kingfish served with lemon rice.
Rukhal bread is a thin, round bread originally baked over a fire made from palm leaves. It is eaten at any meal, typically served with Omani honey for breakfast or crumbled over curry for dinner. Chicken, fish, and lamb or mutton are regularly used in dishes. The Omani halwa is a very popular sweet, consisting of cooked raw sugar with nuts. There are many different flavors, the most popular ones being black halwa (original) and saffron halwa. Halwa is considered a symbol of Omani hospitality, traditionally served with coffee. As is the case with most Arab states of the Persian Gulf, alcohol is only available over the counter to non-Muslims. Muslims can still purchase alcoholic drinks. Alcohol is served in many hotels and a few restaurants.
In October 2004, the Omani government set up a Ministry of Sports Affairs to replace the General Organisation for Youth, Sports and Cultural Affairs. The 19th Arabian Gulf Cup took place in Muscat, from 4 to 17 January 2009 and was won by the Omani national football team. The 23rd Arabian Gulf Cup that took place in Kuwait, from 22 December 2017 until 5 January 2018 with Oman winning their second title, defeating the United Arab Emirates in the final on penalties following a goalless draw.
The first "El Clasico" to be played outside of Spain, was played on 14 March 2014, at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex. Real Madrid F.C. starting eleven consisted of: Contreras, Míchel Salgado, Pavón, Belenguer, Fernando Sanz, Velasco, Fernando Hierro, De la Red, Amavisca, Sabido and Alfonso. Emilio Álvarez, García Cortés, Torres Mestre, Morán, Álex Pérez, and Iván Pérez also played. FC Barcelona played with: Felip, Coco, Roberto, Nadal, Goicochea, Milla, Víctor Muñoz, Gaizka Mendieta, Giuly, Ezquerro and Luis García. Moner, Ramos, Albert Tomás, Mulero, Arpón, Lozano and Christiansen also played. The match ended with a score of 2 to 1 in favor of FC Barcelona.
Oman's traditional sports are dhow racing, horse racing, camel racing, bull fighting and falconry. Association football, basketball, waterskiing and sandboarding are among the sports that have emerged quickly and gained popularity among the younger generation.
Ali Al-Habsi is an Omani professional association football player. , he plays in the Football League Championship as a goalkeeper for West Brom. 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 organising 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, rugby union, field hockey, volleyball, athletics, swimming and tennis associations. In 2010 Muscat hosted the 2010 Asian Beach Games.
Oman also hosts tennis tournaments in different age divisions each year. The Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex stadium contains a 50-meter swimming pool which is used for international tournaments from different schools in different countries. The Tour of Oman, a professional cycling 6-day stage race, takes place in February. Oman hosted the Asian 2011 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup qualifiers, where 11 teams competed for three spots at the FIFA World Cup. Oman hosted the Men's and Women's 2012 Beach Handball World Championships at the Millennium Resort in Mussanah, from 8 to 13 July. Oman has competed repeatedly for a position in the FIFA World Cup, but have yet qualified to compete in the tournament.
Oman, along with Fujairah in the UAE, are the only regions in the Middle East that have a variant of bullfighting, known as 'bull-butting', organised within their territories. Al-Batena area in Oman is specifically prominent for such events. It involves two bulls of the Brahman breed pitted against one another and as the name implies, they engage in a forceful barrage of headbutts. The first one to collapse or concede its ground is declared the loser. Most bull-butting matches are short affairs and last for less than 5 minutes. The origins of bull-butting in Oman remain unknown, but many locals believe it was brought to Oman by the Moors of Spanish origin. Yet others say it has a direct connection with Portugal, which colonised the Omani coastline for nearly two centuries.
In cricket, Oman qualified for the 2016 ICC World Twenty20 by securing sixth place in 2015 ICC World Twenty20 Qualifier. They have also been granted T20I status as they were among the top six teams in the qualifiers. On 30 October 2019, they qualified for 2021 T20 Cricket World Cup. On 25 June 2021, it was confirmed that Oman will co-host the 2021 edition of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup alongside the United Arab Emirates. Oman was also chosen as the venue to decide on the grouping of teams for the 2021 ICC Men's T20 World Cup.
Oman featured a men's national team in beach volleyball that competed at the 2018–2020 AVC Beach Volleyball Continental Cup.
Religion
Even though the Oman government does not keep statistics on religious affiliation, statistics from the US's Central Intelligence Agency state that adherents of Islam are in the majority at 85.9%, while 6.4% are Christians, 5.7% Hindus, 0.8% Buddhists, and fewer than 0.1% are Jews; members of other religious affiliations comprise 1% and the unaffiliated 0.2%.
Most Omanis are Muslims; these predominantly follow the Ibadi school of Islam, followed by the Twelver school of Shia Islam, and the Shafi`i school of Sunni Islam. Virtually all non-Muslims in Oman are foreign workers. Non-Muslim religious communities include various groups of Jains, Buddhists, Zoroastrians, Sikhs, Jews, Hindus and Christians. Christian communities are centred in the major urban areas of Muscat, Sohar and Salalah. These include Catholic, Eastern Orthodox and various Protestant congregations, organising along linguistic and ethnic lines. More than 50 different Christian groups, fellowships and assemblies are active in the Muscat metropolitan area, formed by migrant workers from Southeast Asia.
There are also communities of ethnic Indian Hindus and Christians. There are also small Sikh and Jewish communities.
Demographics
By 2020, Oman's population exceeded 4.5 million The total fertility rate in 2020 was estimated to be 2.8 children born per woman; this rate has been rapidly decreasing in recent years. About half of the population lives in Muscat and the Batinah coastal plain northwest of the capital. Omanis are predominantly of Arab, Baluchi and African origins.
Omani society is largely tribal and encompasses three major identities: that of the tribe, the Ibadi faith and maritime trade. The first two identities are closely tied to tradition and are especially prevalent in the interior of the country, owing to lengthy periods of isolation. The third identity pertains mostly to Muscat and the coastal areas of Oman, and is reflected by business, trade, and the diverse origins of many Omanis, who trace their roots to Baloch, Al-Lawatia, Persia and historical Omani Zanzibar. Gwadar, a region of Balochistan, was a Colony of Oman for more than a century and in the 1960s, Pakistan took over the land. Many people in this area are Omani and Pakistani.
Even though the Oman government does not keep statistics on religious affiliation, statistics from the US's Central Intelligence Agency state that adherents of Islam are in the majority at 85.9%, while 6.4% are Christians, 5.7% Hindus, 0.8% Buddhists, and fewer than 0.1% are Jews; members of other religious affiliations comprise 1% and the unaffiliated 0.2%.
Most Omanis are Muslims; these predominantly follow the Ibadi school of Islam, followed by the Twelver school of Shia Islam, and the Shafi`i school of Sunni Islam. Virtually all non-Muslims in Oman are foreign workers. Non-Muslim religious communities include various groups of Jains, Buddhists, Zoroastrians, Sikhs, Jews, Hindus and Christians. Christian communities are centred in the major urban areas of Muscat, Sohar and Salalah. These include Catholic, Eastern Orthodox and various Protestant congregations, organising along linguistic and ethnic lines. More than 50 different Christian groups, fellowships and assemblies are active in the Muscat metropolitan area, formed by migrant workers from Southeast Asia.
There are also communities of ethnic Indian Hindus and Christians. There are also small Sikh and Jewish communities.
Arabic is the official language of Oman. It belongs to the Semitic branch of the Afroasiatic family. There are several dialects of Arabic spoken, all part of the Peninsular Arabic family: Dhofari Arabic (also known as Dhofari, Zofari) is spoken in Salalah and the surrounding coastal regions (the Dhofar Governorate); Gulf Arabic is spoken in parts bordering the UAE; whereas Omani Arabic, distinct from the Gulf Arabic of eastern Arabia and Bahrain, is spoken in Central Oman, although with recent oil wealth and mobility has spread over other parts of the Sultanate.
According to the CIA, besides Arabic, English, Baluchi (Southern Baluchi), Urdu, Bengali (spoken by Indians and Bangladeshis), Hindi, Malayalam, Tulu and various other Indian languages are the main languages spoken in Oman. English is widely spoken in the business community and is taught at school from an early age. Almost all signs and writings appear in both Arabic and English at tourist sites. Baluchi is the mother tongue of the Baloch people from Balochistan in western Pakistan, eastern Iran and southern Afghanistan. It is also used by some descendants of Sindhi sailors. Bengali is widely spoken due to a large Bangladeshi expatriate population. A significant number of residents also speak Urdu, due to the influx of Pakistani migrants during the late 1980s and 1990s. Additionally, Swahili is widely spoken in the country due to the historical relations between Oman and Zanzibar.
Prior to Islam, Central Oman lay outside of the core area of spoken Arabic. Possibly Old South Arabian speakers dwelled from the Al Batinah Region to Zafar, Yemen. Rare Musnad inscriptions have come to light in central Oman and in the Emirate of Sharjah, but the script says nothing about the language which it conveys. A bilingual text from the 3rd century BCE is written in Aramaic and in musnad Hasiatic, which mentions a 'king of Oman' (mālk mn ʿmn). Today the Mehri language is limited in its distribution to the area around Salalah, in Zafar and westward into the Yemen. But until the 18th or 19th century it was spoken further north, perhaps into Central Oman. Baluchi (Southern Baluchi) is widely spoken in Oman. Endangered indigenous languages in Oman include Kumzari, Bathari, Harsusi, Hobyot, Jibbali and Mehri. Omani Sign Language is the language of the deaf community. Oman was also the first Arab country in the Persian Gulf to have German taught as a second language. The Bedouin Arabs, who reached eastern and southeastern Arabia in migrational waves—the latest in the 18th century, brought their language and rule including the ruling families of Bahrain, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
Oman scored high as of 2019 on the percentage of students who complete lower secondary school and on the literacy rate between the age of 15 and 24, 99.7 percent and 98.7 percent, respectively. However, Oman's net primary school enrollment rate in 2019, which is 94.1 percent, is rated as "challenges remain" by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG) standard. Oman's overall evaluation in quality of education, according to UNSDG, is 94.8 ("challenges remain") as of 2019.
Oman's higher education produces a surplus in humanities and liberal arts, while it produces an insufficient number in technical and scientific fields and required skill-sets to meet the market demand. Further, sufficient human capital creates a business environment that can compete with, partner or attract foreign firms. Accreditation standards and mechanisms with a quality control that focuses on input assessments, rather than output, are areas of improvement in Oman, according to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development 2014 report. The transformation Index BTI 2018 report on Oman recommends that the education curriculum should focus more on the "promotion of personal initiative and critical perspective". Oman was ranked 84th in the Global Innovation Index in 2020, down from 80th in 2019.
The adult literacy rate in 2010 was 86.9%. Before 1970, only three formal schools existed in the entire country, with fewer than 1,000 students. Since Sultan Qaboos' ascension 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 1,000 state schools and about 650,000 students.
Oman's first university, Sultan Qaboos University, opened in 1986. The University of Nizwa is one of the fastest growing universities in Oman. Other post-secondary institutions in Oman include the Higher College of Technology and its six branches, six colleges of applied sciences (including a teachers' training college), a college of banking and financial studies, an institute of Sharia sciences, and several nursing institutes. Some 200 scholarships are awarded each year for study abroad.
According to the Webometrics Ranking of World Universities, the top-ranking universities in the country are Sultan Qaboos University (1678th worldwide), the Dhofar University (6011th) and the University of Nizwa (6093rd).
Since 2003, Oman's undernourished share of the population has dropped from 11.7 percent to 5.4 percent in 2016, but the rate remains high (double) the level of high-income economies (2.7 percent) in 2016. The UNSDG targets zero hunger by 2030. Oman's coverage of essential health services in 2015 was 77 percent, which is relatively higher than the world's average of approximately 54 percent during the same year, but lower than high-income economies' level (83 percent) in 2015.
Since 1995, the percentage of Omani children who receive key vaccines has consistently been very high (above 99 percent). As for road incident death rates, Oman's rate has been decreasing since 1990, from 98.9 per 100,000 individuals to 47.1 per 100,000 in 2017, however, the rate remains significantly above average, which was 15.8 per 100,000 in 2017. Oman's health spending to GDP between 2015 and 2016 averaged 4.3 percent, while the world's average during the same period averaged 10 percent.
As for mortality due to air pollution (household and ambient air pollution), Oman's rate was 53.9 per 100,000 population as of 2016. In 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) ranked Oman as the least polluted country in the Arab world, with a score of 37.7 in the pollution index. The country ranked 112th in Asia among the list of highest polluted countries.
Life expectancy at birth in Oman was estimated to be 76.1 years in 2010. , there were an estimated 2.1 physicians and 2.1 hospital beds per 1,000 people. In 1993, 89% of the population had access to health care services. In 2000, 99% of the population had access to health care services. During the last three decades, the Oman health care system has demonstrated and reported great achievements in health care services and preventive and curative medicine. Oman has been making strides in health research too recently. Comprehensive research on the prevalence of skin diseases was performed in North Batinah governorate. In 2000, Oman's health system was ranked number 8 by the World Health Organization.
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