ONTC

About Oman

The Sultanate of Oman is located on the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula and has an area of approximately 309,500km2. It is bordered on the west by Saudi Arabia, to the northwest lie the United Arab Emirates and to the southwest is Yemen. The east coast meets with the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman. The capital of Oman is Muscat, a cosmopolitan, but relaxed city, free from the hustle and bustle found in many of Arabia's other capital cities. In the south of the Sultanate, is Salalah, the administrative capital of the Dhofar region.

Oman is a surprisingly green country, particularly in Dhofar, due to its location on the monsoon paths. Landscaping and beautification are priorities of the Municipalities, and gardens, parks and grassy knolls line the main highway. The countryside is varied, from rugged mountain ranges to desert sands, to green, lush wadis (riverbeds). The climate in Muscat is markedly different to that in Dhofar: during the winter, Muscat enjoys temperatures of, average, 300C, dropping to around 180 C at night. However, in the summer, Muscat bakes in 45-480 C, while Dhofar cools down in the light monsoon rain.

The Omani people are friendly and welcoming to visitors. Although Arabic is their main language, English is spoken frequently and is often used as the lingua franca. Despite their relaxed air, the Omanis are quite conservative people and respect for their privacy and, in particular, their religion, should always be observed. Modesty is the keyword in how to dress. Women should wear loose, long garments, ensuring that their shoulders and knees are covered. Men should wear long trousers and tops with sleeves. Swimming costumes are fine for the beach or the pool. During the holy month of Ramadhan (from Nov 28, 2000, date approximate), all Muslims fast during the hours of daylight. Visitors to the country should remember that eating, drinking and smoking is not allowed in public at this time.

Sultan Qaboos bin Said is Oman's ruler. He acceded to the throne in 1970 and in the space of 30 years has transformed his country into one which boasts modern and innovative healthcare, education, telecommunications networks and a stable economy. Although the Sultan has ultimate power in governing his country, the daily administration of the land is performed by various Ministries. The Sultan is a well-respected leader, both at home and in the international arenas. In recognition of his role in Middle East peace keeping, he was presented with the International Peace Award in 1988 by the National Council on US-Arab Relations.

A visit to the Sultanate is sure to surprise and delight. Holidays can be as adventurous and energetic, or relaxed and uncomplicated as you choose.