Fun Facts About Oman

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.

Oman: A Brief History

Converted to Islam in the 7th century and taken over by the Portuguese in 1508.
Portugal was expelled in 1650. The current ruleing family came into power around this time and continues to this day.
In 1970 the sultan was overthrow in a Coup De Tat by his son. His son has done much for Oman by creating a modern government and instituted a major health and education reform.
Talks with Yemen about border disputes have improved and much of the fighting has subsided.

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
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