Oman

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Behind the Protests

In reaction to the rising protests in the Middle East Oman is no exception. Although places like Libya are pushing for a full overthrow of the government, the Omani people instead are protesting for better jobs and pay. They also want less corruption and a better constitutional rights.
Sultan Qaboos called for 50,000 jobs and $386 for every job seeker in order to quell the protests
A peaceful protest and an example of Men's dress.
Only one person has been recorded dying to date.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wmdlqZcNp40
NY times article http://www.nytimes.com/2011/03/01/world/middleeast/01oman.html

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Current Issue In Oman: Communications

Oman's Sultan has recently banned the use of Skype to its citizens. Specifically it has banned Voice Over IP.

Most believe it is because they want the current phone system to be monopolized by Omantel (the current primary provider of internet and phone service) They also have to take security issues into account.

Here's an article from the Times of Oman on a story enforcing these laws http://www.timesofoman.com/innercat.asp?detail=31853&rand=ZdXYiXQjX4af5Diedq5ZVGDhik

It is also impossible to get a pre-paid SIM card for security reasons...

Location	Eastern Tip of the Arabian Peninsula
Capital	Muscat
Size	82,031 sq mi about the size of Kansas
Population	3,027,959
Age Demographics	Age structure: 0-14 years: 31.2% 15-64 years: 65.7% 65 years and over: 3.1%
Percent of Arable Land	2%
Religious breakdown	Ibadhi Muslim 75%, other (includes Sunni Muslim, Shia Muslim, Hindu) 25%
Primary Languages	Arabic, Portuguese, English
Major Exports	Dates, petroleum, copper, asbestos, marble, limestone gypsum, and natural gas (Traffic in the Oceans too)
Government	Monarchy
Per Capita Income	$25,800
Demonym	Omani
Women’s Rights	Women can work, vote, and have public offices
Fashion	They wear what we here in America wear but with more modest standards. Longer sleeves and covering the knees are a must. Men wear a white cap and robe called a dishdasha Most Muslim women wear hi-jabs and normal clothing. Wearing modern fashion with an Under armor like garment is very popular with younger women.