Oman

Oman

area:	212,460sq km (82,278sq mi)
population:	2,176,000
capital (population):	Muscat (776,300)
government:	Monarchy with a consultative council
ethnic groups:	Omani Arab 74%, Pakistani 21%
languages:	Arabic (official)
religions:	Islam 86%, Hinduism 13%
currency:	Omani rial = 100 baizas

Sultanate on the se corner of the Arabian peninsula, sw Asia; the capital is Muscat.

Land and climate

Oman is 95% desert. On the Gulf of Oman coast lies the fertile plain of Al Batinah, and the city of Muscat. The plain is backed by the Al Hajar mountains, which rise, at Jebel Sham, to 3019m (9905ft). In the s lies part of the barren and rocky Rub' al Khali desert (‘Empty Quarter’). The sultanate also includes the tip of the Musandam Peninsula, overlooking the strategic Strait of Hormuz, and separated from the rest of Oman by the United Arab Emirates. Oman has a hot tropical climate. In Muscat, summer temperatures rise to 47°C (117°F). Parts of the n mountains have an average annual rainfall of 400mm (16in), but most of Oman has less than 125mm (5in). Date palms grow on the coastal plain and around desert oases. Grassy pasture occurs on the Al Hajar mountains and on the s coast.

History and Politics

In ancient times, Oman was an important trading area on the main route between The Gulf and the Indian Ocean. Islam was introduced in the 7th century ad, and Muslim culture remains a unifying force. In 1507, the Portuguese captured several seaports in Oman, including Muscat. Portugal controlled maritime trade until expelled by the Ottomans in 1659. Oman set up trading posts in East Africa, including Zanzibar in 1698 and, until the 1860s, was the dominant Arabian power. The al-Said family have ruled Oman since taking power in 1741. During the 20th century, the sultanate was often in conflict with religious leaders (imams) of the Ibahdi sect, who sought a more theocratic society. British colonial interference and economic inequality led to popular rebellions in the 1950s and 1960s. Insurrectionist forces continued to control much of s Oman. In 1970, Sultan Said bin Taimur was deposed by his son, Qaboos bin Said. In 1971, Oman joined the UN and the Arab League. Qaboos bin Said initiated the modernization of health, education, and social welfare services. Despite the extension of free education, 65% of the population remained illiterate by 1992. In 1981, Oman was a founder member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Ties with the UK and the USA remain strong. Oman allowed coalition forces to use its military bases during the Gulf War (1991).

Economy

Oman is an upper-middle-income developing country (2000 GDP per capita, US$7700). Oil production dominates the economy. Oil was first discovered in 1964, and now accounts for more than 90% of exports. The industry attracts many migrant workers. Oil refining and the processing of copper are among Oman's few manufacturing industries. Agriculture supports 50% of the workforce. Major crops include alfalfa, bananas, coconuts, dates, limes, and tobacco. Some farmers raise camels and cattle. Fishing, especially for sardines, is also important, but Oman is reliant on food imports.

Political map

Physical map

Websites

http://www.omanet.com