A grand white building with arched windows and tall trees lining the entrance, set against a mountainous backdrop.

The political system in Oman

A journey into the state structure of the Sultanate

A journey into the state structure of the Sultanate

Are you planning a trip to Oman? Then it is helpful to inform yourself about the political system of the country. Oman is a sultanate, an Arab and Islamic state, whose political structure differs significantly from Western democracy.

Written by: Philip Eichkorn Last updated at: September 30, 2025

The Sultanate of Oman: An Overview

The Sultanate of Oman is a unique political system in which Islamic law forms the basis for the judiciary. This law is subject to the interpretation of the Sultan, who holds a very moderate viewpoint.

The Role of the Sultan

All power in Oman emanates from the Sultan. Sultan Qaboos ibn Said Al Said, the head of state, combines the executive, judiciary, and legislative branches in one person. All new laws are announced by the Sultan as 'Royal Decrees.'

The Form of Government in Oman

There is no democracy in the Western sense in Oman. The succession of the Sultan is regulated by hereditary succession, and the people have no say in the election of the ruler.

Modern Administration in Oman

Despite the traditional form of government, Oman is striving for a modern, effective administration. The long-serving Sultan Qaboos ibn Said Al Said established a well-functioning apparatus consisting of a cabinet of ministers, state secretaries, and councils.

Women in Oman's Politics

Oman's open-minded attitude is also reflected in the role of women in politics. In 2003, a woman was appointed as a minister for the first time.

Oman is a country that connects tradition and modernity. Its political structure is unique and offers travelers a fascinating insight into another culture.

Discover Oman with experts who have called it their home

Your dream holiday, tailor-made by experts.

We don't just know Oman from books, we visit the country several times a year to experience the culture, landscape and people first-hand.

From your first enquiry to your return home, we are there for you personally - by phone, email or WhatsApp, whenever you need us. Our trips are as unique as you are: individually planned and provided with exclusive privileges and high-quality arrangements that will make your trip unforgettable.

You might also like this

A wooden pier extending towards the sea with a person standing at the end, under a clear blue sky.

The perfect travel weather in the Wahiba Sands Desert

2 min read

Are you planning an unforgettable trip to Oman and wondering when the best time to visit the Wahiba Sands Desert is? Here you will find all the important information about the climate and weather in this fascinating region....

Two Nigerian banknotes, a 5- and a 20-naira note, placed on a dark surface.

Currency in Oman

5 min read

Are you planning a trip to Oman and wondering how the currency works? Here you will find all the important information about the currency in Oman, the Omani Rial (RO), and how you can best exchange money....

Pink and white flower petals spread out on a mat with traditional clay jars with woven covers in the background.

Traditional production of rose water

2 min read

The rose gardens of Jebel Akhbar come to life every year between the end of March and the beginning of May. Every morning, the rose growers go to their fields to pick the blossoms of their roses. These are collected in large baskets and then taken to the distillery, where rose water is made from the blossoms. The harvest season is short, and in comparison, the efforts throughout the year are significant to achieve the best possible harvest. However, the still quite high prices that farmers can achieve on the markets for their rose water more than compensate for the efforts. The high price that...