|
Oman is an Arab country on the southeast coast of the Arabian Peninsula bordering the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Yemen. The coast is formed by the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman, which is fast becoming a popular tourist destination. The country also has two exclaves - Madha and Musandam which are separated from the mainland by the UAE.
The capital of Oman, Muscat, is the site of the earliest recorded human settlement which dates back to the Stone Age and is thought to be at least 10,000 years old. There is also evidence of later sites from the Bronze Age with rudimentary tools and pots. Oman became a Muslim country around the 7th century and the first nation to fully embrace Islam.
The interior of Oman is hot and dry and humid along the coastal areas. Large parts of Oman are covered in gravel deserts with mountain ranges along the north and southeast coasts. The most populous cities are located on the coast.
Over 50% of the 2.5 million population live in Muscat and the Batinah coastal plain and about 95% of the population is Muslim.
Traditionally the Omani export trade has consisted mainly of oil and natural gases, but in times of global slumps the government has made plans to diversify the economy with emphasis being placed on tourism. Oman is also rich in natural resources such as zinc, limestone, silicon, copper, gold, cobalt and iron.
The official language is Arabic but English is widely spoken and taught in schools from the age of six. Muslim is the official religion in Oman and both men and women are required to wear traditional dress.
We have exclusive strategic partnership with expert expat financial services companies who are able to help you out with your finances when you move abroad. To find out more or to ask any questions, please contact us.
See also:
|
