The Sultanate of Oman, otherwise known as just Oman, is an Arab country located in the southeastern part of the Arabian Peninsula along the coast line. It is bordered by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Yemen, and Saudi Arabia. Oman’s wealth has been until now based on oil and natural gas, but compared to most other Middle Eastern countries its reserves are relatively small. They continue to make the most of what oil they do have, while working to diversify their economy in other areas. Their membership in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is part of these efforts.
In addition to oil and natural gas, Oman also contains a number of excellent mineral resources such as Copper, Asbestos and Marble. By many estimates its mineral resources far exceed its oil and natural gas resources, making this one of the areas Oman is looking to for its continuing prosperity. Another important economic sector for Oman is industrial in nature; it is one of the government initiatives to expand the industrial sector into manufactured products. Additionally, information technology and telecommunications are developing rapidly as part of Oman’s economic growth strategy.
Oman is home to a number of popular tourist attractions, and they boast several natural formations that other GCC countries lack. The coastline is dominated by very clean, beautiful beaches, and many visitors enjoy spending time in the plentiful wadis where there are lush trees, flowering plants, and in most cases, year-round water with deep, clear pools perfect for swimming.
Most Omani men and women wear traditional Arabic clothing; the men in particular tend to prefer the dishdasha, an ankle length robe without a collar but with a tassel hanging from the neck. Women typically wear abayas and hijabs, but are not required to cover their hands or faces. During the traditional holiday times of the years the citizens of Oman bring out their very best clothing, often in bright colors and with flowing fabrics.
Top industries and employers in Oman
The top industries in Oman include the following:
- Oil and Natural Gas
- IT/Telecoms
- Minerals and Industrial
Within these various industries and areas there are a number of top employers, such as:
- Minerals and Industrial – Al Awdah Trade, Gulf Mining Materials Company, Unitedchroma LLC, Al Mazroui United Trading & Services, Majan Carbonate, Seena United Projects, Bahjat Al Dhahreez Trading, Aljamal Mining
- Oil and Natural Gas – Oman Oil Company, Petroleum Development Oman Ltd., Oman Oil Marketing Company, Oman Oil Industry Supplies & Services Company, Daleel Petroleum Company, Oman Refineries & Petrochemicals Company
- IT/Telecoms – Oman Telecommunications Company, Oman Mobile, Nawras Telecom, Majan Telecom, Elaf Telecom Services
If you want to visit Oman as a tourist or if you are offered a job in this beautiful country, don't hesitate about going there. You will not be disappointed as Oman offers a lot regardless of the nature of your trip.