The Sultanate of Oman is a country of breath-taking natural beauty, interwoven with a kaleidoscope of history and legends. As the oldest independent state in the Arab World, Oman has embraced modernization and progress while retaining the core aspects of its culture and heritage.

The Sultanate of Oman is the third largest country on the Arabian Peninsula. It has a total area of 309,500 square kilometres (approximately 120,000 square miles). Oman is strategically located in the southeast corner of the Arabian Peninsula at the junction of Africa, Asia and the Middle East.

Its long coastline includes regions that can be green and habitable, unlike much of the country’s interior which lies in the wilderness region of the Arabian Peninsula known as the Rub’ al Khali (The Empty Quarter). Traditionally considered an arid desert, credible evidence now suggests that there is water under the sands. Oman’s varied and attractive landscapes and its unspoiled wilderness areas provide outstanding leisure opportunities.

In the Hajar Mountains, the mountain peaks of Jabal Shams (at around 3,000 meters, the highest peak in the Arabian Peninsula) and Jabal Akhdar (Green Mountain) offer dramatic locations with breathtaking views and cool temperatures all year round.

All this, combined with the natural friendliness of its people, makes Oman an attractive destination for visitors.

Oman’s culture is deeply rooted in the Sultanate’s proud heritage and history of seafaring, trading and exploration. Today, long-standing traditions blend seamlessly with modern day living, with the latest fashion and electronics brands sold alongside traditional hand-made crafts, jewellery, and even goats and cattle at souqs around the country.

His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has successfully united all tribes since his ascension in 1970, ensuring that the country and its people work together to build the country. Oman has a population of just over 4 million people.