Oman, officially the Sultanate of Oman, is an Arab country located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. It borders Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen, with coastlines along the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman. Oman has a population of approximately 4.7 million people and covers an area that includes the exclaves of Madha and Musandam. Muscat is the nation's capital and largest city.
1913: Imam Salim Alkharusi Leads Rebellion
Imam Salim Alkharusi initiated a rebellion against Muscat in 1913, an event that significantly impacted Oman's internal power dynamics.
1920: Treaty of Seeb Establishes Peace and Autonomy
The Treaty of Seeb, brokered by Britain in 1920, brought an end to the rebellion instigated by Imam Salim Alkharusi in 1913. This treaty led to the Sultanate of Muscat recognizing the autonomy of the Imamate in Oman's interior while maintaining sovereignty over the coastal regions.
January 1923: Agreement on Oil Extraction with Britain
An agreement was reached in January 1923 between the Sultanate and the British government, stipulating that any oil extraction within the Sultanate would require prior consultation with the British political agent stationed in Muscat and approval from the High Government of India.
July 1928: Red Line Agreement Shapes Oil Production
The Red Line Agreement, a pivotal agreement concerning oil production in the post-Ottoman Empire region, was signed in July 1928. This agreement involved major oil companies and dictated that oil concessions within the designated area, which included the Arabian Peninsula, could only be pursued collectively by the signatories.
1929: Establishment of Iraq Petroleum Company
In 1929, a consortium of oil companies, bound by the Red Line Agreement, came together to form the Iraq Petroleum Company (IPC), a significant development in the history of oil exploration and production in the region.
November 1931: Abdication of Sultan Taimur bin Faisal
Sultan Taimur bin Faisal abdicated in November 1931, a significant event that paved the way for a new era in Oman's leadership.
February 1932: Said bin Taimur Becomes Sultan
Said bin Taimur officially assumed the role of Sultan of Muscat in February 1932, marking the beginning of his reign, which would be characterized by significant events and complexities.
1937: Oil Concessions Granted to IPC
In 1937, an agreement was reached between the Sultan and the Iraq Petroleum Company (IPC), a consortium with partial British ownership, granting IPC oil concessions within the Sultanate. This agreement reflected the growing significance of oil exploration and production in the region and the involvement of international companies.
1946: British Support for Sultan's Expansion
In 1946, the British government provided arms, ammunition, supplies, and officers to support Sultan Said bin Taimur's preparations for a potential attack on the interior of Oman. This support reflected the British government's strategic interests in the region.
1951: UK Recognizes Sultanate of Muscat and Oman's Independence
The United Kingdom formally recognized the Sultanate of Muscat and Oman as a fully independent state in a treaty signed in 1951. This treaty covered key areas, including commerce, oil reserves, and navigation, marking a significant step in Oman's journey as an independent nation.
May 1954: Ghalib Alhinai Elected Imam
Following the death of Imam Alkhalili in May 1954, Ghalib Alhinai was elected as the new Imam. His election would lead to significant political developments and tensions with Sultan Said bin Taimur.
December 1955: Sultan's Forces Occupy Key Centers in Oman
In December 1955, Sultan Said bin Taimur's forces took control of major centers in Oman, including Nizwa, the capital of the Imamate of Oman, and Ibri. This action escalated tensions and led to armed conflict with forces loyal to the Imamate.
1955: Makran Strip Accedes to Pakistan
The coastal Makran strip, an exclave of Oman, acceded to Pakistan in 1955. It was integrated into Pakistan's Balochistan province as a district.
July 1957: Suppression of the Rebellion with British Intervention
Despite facing ambushes and casualties while withdrawing in July 1957, Sultan Said bin Taimur, with the assistance of British forces, successfully quelled the rebellion. This victory solidified the Sultanate's control over Oman but highlighted the role of external forces in the region's conflicts.
August 1957: British Approval for Air Strikes
On 4 August 1957, the British Foreign Secretary gave the approval to carry out air strikes without prior warning to the locals residing in the interior of Oman.
September 1958: Pakistan Purchases Gwadar Enclave
Pakistan purchased the Gwadar enclave from Oman in September 1958 for US$3 million, integrating it into the Makran district as a tehsil. This transaction marked a change in the territorial status of Gwadar.
December 1958: RAF Bombing Campaign
Between July and December 1958, the British RAF conducted 1,635 raids, dropping 1,094 tons of bombs and firing 900 rockets targeting insurgents, mountain top villages, water channels, and crops in the interior of Oman.
January 1959: Sultanate Forces Occupy Mountain
On 27 January 1959, the Sultanate's forces occupied the mountain in a surprise operation, leading to the escape of Imam Ghalib, his brother Talib, and Sulaiman to Saudi Arabia.
December 1963: UN Ad-Hoc Committee on Oman
On 11 December 1963, the UN General Assembly decided to establish an Ad-Hoc Committee on Oman to study the 'Question of Oman' and report back to the General Assembly.
1963: Start of Dhofar War
In 1963, the Dhofar War began with pro-Soviet forces rebelling against the Omani government, challenging Sultan Said bin Taimur's control of Dhofar.
1965: UN Resolution on Oman 1965
In 1965, the UN General Assembly adopted the 'Question of Oman' resolution, calling upon the British government to cease all repressive actions against the locals and end British control over Oman, reaffirming the Omani people's right to self-determination and independence.
1966: UN Resolution on Oman 1966
In 1966, the UN General Assembly again adopted the 'Question of Oman' resolution, reiterating its call for Britain to end repressive actions and control over Oman, supporting the Omani people's right to self-determination and independence.
1967: UN Resolution on Oman 1967
In 1967, the UN General Assembly reaffirmed the 'Question of Oman' resolution, urging Britain to stop repressive measures and relinquish control over Oman, asserting the Omani people's inalienable right to self-determination and independence.
1969: Madha Boundary Settlement
In 1969, the boundary of the Madha exclave, an enclave within UAE territory, was settled, with the north-east corner of Madha being only 10 meters from the Fujairah road.
July 1970: Oman Radio Launch
Oman Radio, the nation's first and only state-owned radio channel, began broadcasting on July 30, 1970, offering programming in both Arabic and English.
1970: Coup d'État and Reforms
In 1970, Sultan Said bin Taimur was deposed in a bloodless coup by his son Qaboos bin Said with British support. Qaboos expanded the armed forces, modernized the administration, and introduced social reforms.
1970: Qaboos bin Said becomes Sultan
Qaboos bin Said became the Sultan of Oman in 1970, marking the beginning of his reign.
1970: Oman's Moderate Foreign Policy
Since 1970, Oman has maintained a moderate foreign policy, expanding its diplomatic ties, including friendly relations with Iran.
1970: Qaboos Consolidates Power
Since 1970, all legislation in Oman has been promulgated through royal decrees by Sultan Qaboos, who kept major ministerial roles within the Royal Domain.
1970: Qaboos Modernizes Oman
After deposing his father in 1970, Sultan Qaboos embarked on economic reforms and modernisation, increasing spending on health, education, and welfare, and outlawing slavery.
1976: End of Dhofar War
In 1976, the Dhofar War ended with the help of forces from Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Pakistan, and Britain, securing Sultan Qaboos's control over the region.
1979: Start of Oil Output Increase
In 1979, amidst the 1970s energy crisis, Oman initiated a period of significant growth in its oil production.
1981: Founding Member of Gulf Cooperation Council
In 1981, Oman became a founding member of the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council, marking a significant step in regional cooperation.
1984: Oman Centre for Traditional Music Established
The Oman Centre for Traditional Music was founded in 1984 to preserve the country's rich musical heritage, encompassing over 130 traditional song and dance forms.
1985: Doubling of Oil Output
By 1985, Oman successfully doubled its oil output compared to its 1979 levels, capitalizing on the global energy landscape.
1985: Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra Founded
Sultan Qaboos established the Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra in 1985, choosing to nurture local talent rather than recruiting foreign musicians.
July 1987: Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra Debut
The Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra, established with the vision of showcasing Omani musical talent, held its inaugural concert on July 1, 1987, at the Oman Auditorium in Al Bustan Palace Hotel.
1990: Road Incident Death Rate Decline Begins
Oman's road incident death rate has been declining since 1990.
1993: Healthcare Access
By 1993, 89% of Oman's population had access to healthcare services.
1993: Omani Society for Fine Arts Founded
The Omani Society for Fine Arts was founded in 1993 to foster artistic development through educational programs, workshops, and grants for artists working in various disciplines.
1995: High Vaccination Rates
Since 1995, Oman has consistently maintained high vaccination rates for key vaccines, with coverage exceeding 99%.
1995: Adoption of National Flag
In 1995, Oman adopted its present national flag, which resembles the previous flag but with a thinner stripe.
1995: Oman's 2020 Vision Launched
Oman launched its 2020 Vision in 1995, aiming to reduce the country's reliance on oil and diversify the economy.
1996: Issuance of Basic Statute
In 1996, the Basic Statute of the State was issued, serving as Oman's constitution and cornerstone of its legal system.
1996: Promulgation of Basic Law
In 1996, Sultan Qaboos issued the Basic Law, which operates as Oman's constitution, centralizing legislative power.
1997: Women's Voting Rights
In 1997, a royal decree granted Omani women the right to vote and stand for election to the Majlis al-Shura, resulting in the election of two women to the Consultative Assembly.
1998: Oman's Economic Diversification Plans Following Oil Price Slump
Following a decline in oil prices in 1998, Oman initiated plans to diversify its economy by focusing on sectors such as tourism and infrastructure.
1998: Bait Al Zubair Museum Opens
The Bait Al Zubair Museum, a private, family-funded museum, opened to the public in 1998. It showcases the family's collection of Omani artifacts.
1999: Bait Al Zubair Receives Architectural Award
In 1999, the Bait Al Zubair Museum received the prestigious Sultan Qaboos' Award for Architectural Excellence.
2000: Start of Fish Export Growth
Oman's fish export journey began its growth trajectory in 2000, marking the start of a period where the industry sought to increase its presence in international markets.
2000: Start of Oil Production Decline
Oman's oil production began to decline in 2000, marking a period of reduced output in the country's oil sector.
2000: Healthcare Access and System Ranking
Healthcare access in Oman reached 99% of the population in 2000. That year, the World Health Organization ranked Oman's healthcare system as 8th globally.
2000: Bait Muzna Gallery Established
Established in 2000 by Sayyida Susan Al Said, Bait Muzna Gallery became Oman's first art gallery, providing a platform for emerging local artists to showcase their work.
2000: Royal Navy of Oman Personnel
In 2000, the Royal Navy of Oman, with headquarters at Seeb, had a total of 4,200 personnel.
2001: Endangered Species in Oman
In 2001, Oman had nine endangered mammal species, five endangered bird species, and nineteen threatened plant species. Decrees were passed to protect species such as the Arabian leopard, Arabian oryx, and green sea turtle.
2002: Voting Rights Extended
In 2002, voting rights in Oman were extended to all citizens over the age of 21, broadening democratic participation.
2003: First Elections Under New Rules
In 2003, the first elections to the Consultative Assembly were held under the new rules, following the extension of voting rights to all citizens over 21.
2003: Undernourishment Rate Decline Begins
Starting in 2003, Oman began to witness a decline in its undernourishment rate.
October 2004: Establishment of Ministry of Sports Affairs
In October 2004, the Omani government established the Ministry of Sports Affairs, replacing the General Organisation for Youth, Sports and Cultural Affairs.
2004: First Female Minister Appointed
In 2004, Sultan Qaboos appointed Sheikha Aisha bint Khalfan bin Jameel al-Sayabiyah as Oman's first female minister with portfolio, heading the National Authority for Industrial Craftsmanship.
2005: Arrests and Pardons of Suspected Islamists
In 2005, nearly 100 suspected Islamists were arrested and 31 were convicted of trying to overthrow the government. They were pardoned in June of the same year.
2006: Royal Army of Oman
As of 2006, the Royal Army of Oman had 25,000 active personnel, but modernization efforts have been relatively slow despite considerable military spending.
2006: Fluctuation in Exported Fish Proportion
Between 2006 and 2016, the percentage of fish exports relative to the total fish captured in tons in Oman experienced fluctuations, ranging from 49 to 61 percent, indicating variations in the country's fishing industry dynamics.
2006: Oman's Naval Vessels
By 2006, the Omani Navy had ten surface combat vessels, including corvettes and patrol boats, along with landing craft.
2006: Oman's Military Personnel
In 2006, Oman's military strength consisted of 44,100 personnel, with the majority serving in the army, followed by the navy and air force.
2006: Stable Date Exports
Oman maintained consistent levels of date exports between 2006 and 2016, indicating stability in the international demand for Omani dates.
2006: Release of "Al-Boom"
The Omani film "Al-Boom" was released in 2006.
2007: Oman Orders Khareef Class Corvettes
Oman placed an order for three Khareef class corvettes from the VT Group in 2007, with construction taking place in Portsmouth.
2007: Deletion from UNESCO World Heritage List
In 2007, the Arabian Oryx Sanctuary became the first site to be deleted from UNESCO's World Heritage List, following the Omani government's decision to reduce the site's area by 90% for oil prospecting.
2007: Significant Drop in Oil Production
By 2007, Oman experienced a substantial decline in oil production, with output falling by more than 26% from its levels in 2000.
2007: Limited Omani Cinema
As of 2007, Oman had a very small cinema industry, with only one domestically produced film, "Al-Boom" (2006). Oman Arab Cinema Company LLC held the position of the largest motion picture exhibitor chain in the country.
2008: Substantial Natural Gas Production
In 2008, Oman produced a considerable amount of natural gas, reaching approximately 24 billion cubic meters, highlighting the country's significant natural gas reserves.
January 2009: US-Oman Free Trade Agreement
A free-trade agreement between the United States and Oman came into effect on January 1, 2009, removing tariff barriers on consumer and industrial products while enhancing protections for foreign investments in Oman.
January 2009: Majan TV Launch
Majan TV, Oman's first private television channel, commenced broadcasting in January 2009.
January 2009: Oman Wins 19th Arabian Gulf Cup
The Omani national football team emerged victorious in the 19th Arabian Gulf Cup held in Muscat from January 4 to 17, 2009.
2009: Tourism Contribution to GDP
In 2009, the tourism sector in Oman contributed RO 505 million (US$1.3 billion) to the nation's GDP, highlighting its growing significance within the Omani economy.
2009: Partial Recovery in Oil Production
Oman's oil production showed signs of recovery in 2009, increasing to 816,000 barrels per day, indicating efforts to stabilize output after a period of decline.
2010: Majan TV Website Update
The last update to Majan TV's official website occurred in early 2010.
2010: Adult Literacy Rate
The adult literacy rate in Oman reached 86.9% in 2010.
2010: Oman's Military Expenditure
Oman allocated US$4.074 billion to military expenditures in 2010, accounting for 8.5% of its gross domestic product.
2010: UN Recognition of Oman's Development
In 2010, the United Nations Development Programme recognized Oman as the country that had made the most progress in development globally over the preceding four decades.
2010: Life Expectancy and Healthcare Resources
In 2010, Oman's life expectancy at birth was estimated to be 76.1 years. The country had approximately 2.1 physicians and 2.1 hospital beds per 1,000 individuals.
February 2011: Protests in Oman
In February 2011, inspired by the Arab Spring, protests occurred in Oman demanding political reforms, better living conditions, and more jobs. They were dispersed by riot police, and Sultan Qaboos promised jobs and benefits.
October 2011: Consultative Assembly Elections
In October 2011, elections were held to the Consultative Assembly, to which Sultan Qaboos promised greater powers.
2011: Low R&D Expenditure as a Percentage of GDP
Between 2011 and 2015, Oman allocated an average of 0.20 percent of its GDP to research and development expenditures, significantly lower than the global average of 2.11 percent during the same period.
2011: Amendment of Basic Statute
In 2011, the Basic Statute of the State was amended in response to protests, marking the first of two amendments since its issuance.
2011: Philippines Deems Oman Safe for Migrant Workers
In 2011, the Philippines government identified Oman and Israel as the only safe countries in the Middle East for Filipino migrants. However, concerns about the exploitation of migrant workers persisted.
2011: Oman's 2020 Vision Rendered Obsolete
Oman's 2020 Vision, established in 1995, was deemed obsolete in 2011.
2011: Low Omani Employment in Construction and Manufacturing
Statistics from 2011 indicated a limited percentage of Omani nationals employed within the construction and manufacturing industries.
2011: Discovery of Stone Tools at Aybut Al Auwal
A significant archaeological discovery was made at Aybut Al Auwal in Oman's Dhofar Governorate in 2011. The site revealed over 100 surface scatters of stone tools, identified as belonging to the late Nubian Complex, a distinct African lithic industry. This finding provided evidence supporting the theory of early human migration from Africa to the Arabian Peninsula during the Late Pleistocene epoch.
September 2012: Crackdown on Internet Criticism
In September 2012, the Omani government began trials of activists accused of posting 'abusive and provocative' criticism online. Six individuals were sentenced to jail terms.
2012: Oman's Arms Imports (2012-2016)
According to SIPRI, Oman was the 23rd largest importer of arms globally between 2012 and 2016.
2012: Continued Oil Production Recovery
Oman's oil production continued to rebound in 2012, reaching 930,000 barrels per day, demonstrating the country's commitment to restoring production levels.
2012: Torture Allegations and Criminalization of Homosexuality in Oman
Reports emerged in 2012 of torture methods employed by Omani security forces on protesters and detainees, including mock executions, beatings, and solitary confinement. Homosexuality remained criminalized in Oman.
2012: Muscat: A Top Global Tourist Destination
The year 2012 witnessed Muscat, the capital of Oman, gaining international recognition as a premier travel destination. Lonely Planet, a renowned travel guide publisher, bestowed upon Muscat the prestigious title of the world's second-best city to visit. Further solidifying its status as a tourism hub, Muscat was also honored as the "Capital of Arab Tourism" in the same year.
2014: Higher Education Imbalance
As of 2014, Oman's higher education system produced a surplus of graduates in humanities and liberal arts, but faced a shortage in technical and scientific fields crucial for market demands. This imbalance, along with a need for improved accreditation and quality control mechanisms, was highlighted in a UNCTAD report.
2014: Women's Dress Code
By 2014, while traditional attire remained reserved for special occasions, many Omani women opted for a loose black cloak called an abaya over their personal clothing choices. In certain regions, particularly among the Bedouin, the burqa persisted. While hijab remained common, most women did not cover their faces or hands. Notably, the Sultan prohibited face coverings in public offices.
November 2015: Viral Music Video
An a cappella music video celebrating Oman gained significant attention online, garnering 500,000 views on YouTube within ten days of its release in November 2015. The video featured prominent regional artists, including musician Al Wasmi, poet Mazin Al-Haddabi, and actress Buthaina Al Raisi.
2015: End of Period with Low R&D Expenditure
The period between 2011 and 2015, marked by relatively low research and development spending in Oman, came to an end.
2015: Health Spending to GDP Ratio
Oman's health spending to GDP ratio averaged 4.3% between 2015 and 2016.
2015: Essential Health Services Coverage
In 2015, Oman achieved 77% coverage of essential health services, surpassing the global average of 54% but falling short of the 83% coverage in high-income economies.
2015: Oman's Health Spending Compared to Global Average (2015-2016)
Between 2015 and 2016, Oman's average health spending constituted 4.3% of its GDP, contrasting with the global average of 10% during the same period.
July 2016: National Museum of Oman Opening
In July 2016, the National Museum of Oman, the Sultanate's flagship cultural institution, was inaugurated. It featured 14 permanent galleries showcasing Omani heritage from its earliest human settlements to the present day.
2016: Mortality Rate Due to Air Pollution
In 2016, Oman recorded a mortality rate of 53.9 per 100,000 population due to air pollution, encompassing both household and ambient sources.
2016: Oman's Arms Imports Rank High Globally
Oman's significant arms imports placed it as the 23rd largest arms importer in the world between 2012 and 2016.
2016: Low Manufacturing Value Added to GDP
Oman's manufacturing sector contributed 8.4 percent to the country's GDP in 2016, falling short of both the Arab world average (9.8 percent) and the global average (15.6 percent).
2016: Health Spending to GDP Ratio
Oman's health spending to GDP ratio averaged 4.3% between 2015 and 2016, significantly lower than the global average of 10%.
2016: Oman Qualifies for 2016 ICC World Twenty20
Oman's cricket team successfully qualified for the 2016 ICC World Twenty20.
2016: Suspension of "Azamn" Newspaper and Journalist Arrests
In 2016, the Omani government faced international condemnation for suspending the newspaper "Azamn" and detaining three journalists following their report exposing corruption within the country's judicial system.
2016: High Reliance on Oil and Gas Revenue
In 2016, oil and gas revenues constituted a significant portion of Oman's government revenue, accounting for 72 percent.
2016: Low Patent Application Rate
In 2016, Oman recorded a mere 0.35 patent applications per million people, a stark contrast to the MENA region's average of 1.50 and significantly lower than the approximate average of 48.0 among high-income nations during the same year.
2016: Significant Date Production and Export Performance
In 2016, Oman emerged as a major player in the global date market, achieving an estimated production of 350,000 tons, securing its position as the world's 9th largest date producer. The country's total date exports amounted to US$12.6 million, nearly equaling its total import value of dates, which stood at US$11.3 million.
2016: Human Rights Watch Report on Oman's Media Restrictions and Journalist Sentencing
In 2016, Human Rights Watch reported that an Omani court sentenced three journalists to prison and ordered the permanent closure of their newspaper for publishing an article alleging corruption within the judiciary.
2016: Oman's High Military Spending Compared to Global Average (2016-2018)
From 2016 to 2018, Oman's military spending averaged 10% of its GDP, significantly exceeding the global average of 2.2% for the same period.
2016: Tourism's Growing Role in Oman's Economy
By 2016, tourism's importance in Oman's economic landscape became increasingly evident as it contributed 2.8 percent to the country's GDP, reflecting the sector's steady growth.
2016: Notable Fish Export Growth and Industry Challenges
By 2016, Oman's fish exports witnessed substantial growth, reaching US$172 million, a significant increase of 19.4 percent from their value in 2000. However, the fishing industry still faced challenges, including limited infrastructure, inadequate research and development, and a need for improved quality and safety monitoring.
2016: Undernourishment Rate Declines
By 2016, Oman successfully reduced its undernourished population percentage from 11.7% to 5.4%. Despite this progress, the rate remained twice as high as that of high-income economies (2.7%).
2016: Oman's Military Spending Compared to Global Average
Between 2016 and 2018, Oman's average military spending was about 10% of its GDP, significantly higher than the global average of 2.2% during the same period.
2016: Bait Muzna Gallery Expands
Bait Muzna Gallery opened a second location in Salalah in 2016, expanding its reach and support to encompass art film and digital art.
December 2017: 23rd Arabian Gulf Cup Kicks Off
The 23rd Arabian Gulf Cup commenced in Kuwait in December 2017, running until January 5, 2018.
2017: Substantial Growth in Tourism Revenue
Oman experienced a remarkable 42.3 percent surge in tourism revenue, reaching RO 719 million (US$1.8 billion) in 2017, demonstrating the sector's impressive expansion and its potential as a key economic driver.
2017: Oil and Gas Contribution to GDP
The oil and gas sector played a substantial role in Oman's economy in 2017, representing 30.1 percent of the nation's nominal GDP.
2017: Road Incident Death Rate Declines but Remains Above Average
Despite a decrease to 47.1 per 100,000 individuals in 2017 from 98.9 in 1990, Oman's road incident death rate remained significantly higher than the global average of 15.8.
2017: Total Foreign Direct Investment in Oman
In 2017, Oman attracted over US$24 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI), with the oil and gas sector receiving the largest share.
2017: Oman's Research and Development Spending (2016-2017)
From 2016 to 2017, Oman's research and development spending averaged 0.24% of its GDP, significantly below the global average of 2.2% during that period.
2017: "Azamn" Remains Closed
Despite a late 2016 court ruling permitting the newspaper "Azamn" to resume operations, the government continued to block its reopening in 2017.
2017: Foreign Direct Investment in Oman by Country
Data on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Oman by source country as of 2017.
January 2018: Oman Secures Second Arabian Gulf Cup Title
Oman clinched their second Arabian Gulf Cup title in January 2018 after defeating the United Arab Emirates in the final held in Kuwait.
June 2018: Record Temperature in Qurayyat
On 26 June 2018, the city of Qurayyat set the record for the highest minimum temperature in a 24-hour period, reaching 42.6°C (108.7°F).
2018: Oman's Economy and Exports
In 2018, mineral fuels constituted 82.2% of Oman's total product exports, reflecting its dependence on oil despite diversification efforts.
2018: Muscat Media Group Launches New Radio Station
In early 2018, Muscat Media Group (MMG) introduced a new private radio station to Oman's media landscape.
2018: Oman's Budget Deficit and Government Debt
Oman faced a budget deficit of 32% of total revenue and a government debt-to-GDP ratio of 47.5% in 2018.
2018: Oman's Military Spending Remains High
Oman sustained its high military spending in 2018, averaging 10% of GDP between 2016 and 2018.
2018: Slight Decrease in Oil and Gas Revenue Reliance
Oman's government revenue reliance on oil and gas decreased slightly to 71 percent in 2018, indicating a minor diversification of income sources.
2018: World Press Freedom Index Ranking
Reporters Without Borders ranked Oman 127th out of 180 countries in its 2018 World Press Freedom Index, reflecting ongoing concerns about media restrictions and censorship.
2018: Education Reform Recommendations
The Transformation Index BTI 2018 report suggested that Oman's education curriculum should prioritize fostering personal initiative and critical thinking skills.
September 2019: Oman Selected to Host IGRC 2020
In September 2019, Oman secured its position as the first Middle Eastern nation to host the prestigious International Gas Union Research Conference (IGRC 2020), marking a significant achievement for the country's growing presence in the global gas industry.
November 2019: E-visa Introduction
In November 2019, Oman replaced its visa-on-arrival system with a mandatory e-visa system for tourists of all nationalities, requiring advance applications.
2019: Climate Action Challenges
In 2019, the United Nations Sustainable Development index highlighted major climate action challenges for Oman, noting high CO2 emissions from energy and fossil fuel exports, despite low imported CO2 emissions and fewer people affected by climate-related disasters.
2019: Oman's Innovation Performance Below Expectations
The Global Innovation Index report in 2019 concluded that Oman's innovation performance fell short of expectations, particularly when compared to nations categorized as high-income.
2019: UN Report Highlights Challenges in Innovation
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals index in 2019 revealed that Oman faced "significant challenges" in industry, innovation, and infrastructure, despite its advancements in areas like internet access and logistics.
2019: Air Quality Ranking
The World Health Organization (WHO) recognized Oman as the least polluted Arab nation in 2019, with a pollution index score of 37.7. However, Oman ranked 112th in Asia on the list of countries with the highest pollution levels.
2019: Education Assessment
In 2019, Oman excelled in lower secondary school completion and literacy rates among youth (99.7% and 98.7%, respectively). However, the primary school enrollment rate (94.1%) was flagged as needing improvement by UNSDG standards. Overall, Oman's education quality received a "challenges remain" rating (94.8/100) from the UNSDG.
2019: Global Innovation Index Ranking
Oman held the 80th position in the Global Innovation Index in 2019.
January 2020: Death of Sultan Qaboos bin Said
In January 2020, Sultan Qaboos bin Said, who had ruled Oman since 1970, passed away. He had no children, but he had designated his cousin, Haitham bin Tariq, as his successor in a letter. The ruling family confirmed Haitham bin Tariq as the new Sultan of Oman.
January 2020: Sultan Qaboos's Death and Succession
Qaboos, the Arab world's longest-serving ruler, died on 10 January 2020. On 11 January 2020, he was succeeded by his first cousin Haitham bin Tariq.
February 2020: IGRC 2020 Held in Oman
The 16th iteration of the International Gas Union Research Conference (IGRC 2020) took place in February 2020, hosted by Oman in collaboration with Oman LNG and under the patronage of the Ministry of Energy and Minerals.
2020: Global Innovation Index Ranking
In 2020, Oman's Global Innovation Index ranking dropped to 84th from its 2019 position of 80th.
2020: Oman's Military Spending Highest Globally
In 2020, Oman's military and security expenditure reached 11% of its GDP, marking the world's highest rate for that year, according to SIPRI.
2020: Oman's 2020 Vision for Economic Diversification
Established in 1995, Oman's 2020 Vision aimed to reduce oil's contribution to GDP to less than 10% by 2020, but this vision was later replaced.
2020: Population Growth and Demographics
By 2020, Oman's population surpassed 4.5 million, with a declining fertility rate of 2.8 children per woman. Roughly half the population resided in Muscat and the Batinah coastal plain. The population predominantly comprises Arab, Baluchi, and African origins, with about 20% being native Omanis of Baloch descent.
June 2021: Oman Confirmed as Co-Host for 2021 ICC Men's T20 World Cup
On June 25, 2021, it was announced that Oman would co-host the 2021 ICC Men's T20 World Cup alongside the United Arab Emirates.
2021: Creation of Crown Prince Position
In 2021, the Basic Statute was amended to create the position of Crown Prince of Oman, reflecting a significant change in the country's governance structure.
2021: Projected Completion of Duqm Refinery
Oman's ambitious project to construct a refinery and petrochemical plant in Duqm, with a substantial capacity of 230,000 barrels per day, is anticipated to reach completion by 2021, signaling a significant development in the country's downstream operations.
April 2023: Oman Lifts Restrictions on Marrying Foreigners
In April 2023, Oman amended its law to allow Omani citizens to marry foreigners without requiring prior government permission, a change enacted through a royal decree.
October 2023: Elections in Oman
In October 2023, Oman held elections for the Consultative Assembly, the lower chamber of its bicameral legislature.
2023: Oman Ranked High in Global Peace Index
As of 2023, the Global Peace Index ranked Oman as the 48th most peaceful nation globally.
2023: Oman Ranked 69th in Global Innovation Index
Oman secured the 69th position in the Global Innovation Index in 2023, reflecting the nation's efforts to foster innovation within its economy.
October 2027: Next Omani Elections
The next election for the Consultative Assembly in Oman is scheduled for October 2027.
2030: Zero Hunger Target
The UNSDG has set a target year of 2030 for achieving zero hunger globally.
2040: Oman's 2040 Vision
Oman established its 2040 Vision, succeeding its previous 2020 Vision, to guide its long-term economic development and diversification plans.