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 distinguished man dressed in traditional Middle Eastern attire with a white turban and a white robe with golden embroidery, sitting in an ornate setting.

Sultan Haitham bin Tarik al Said

2 min read

Wenn Sie eine Reise in den Oman planen, ist es wichtig, etwas über die Führungspersönlichkeit des Landes zu wissen. Sultan Haitham bin Tarik al Said ist der aktuelle Herrscher des Oman und spielt eine entscheidende Rolle in der Gestaltung des modernen Oman....

Sunset over a town nestled between rugged mountains in Muscat, Oman.

The Regions of Oman

10 min read

Oman captivates travelers with a breathtaking variety of landscapes and cultures. Each region of the country has its own unique characteristics – from rugged mountains and idyllic coastlines to vast deserts and lush oases. In this article, we introduce you to four of Oman’s most fascinating regions, each offering an unparalleled travel experience....

A group of people enjoying a day outdoors near the beach with palm trees and a wooden hut in the background.

Family Life in Oman

2 min read

Family life in Oman has little to do with how a Western European might imagine family life in an Islamically influenced country. The woman is seen here as a partner of the man, not as his property. Women are expected to be able to earn their own living, although they still play a significant role in raising children today. However, education for girls is regarded by the politics in Oman as equally important as education for boys. A school diploma, higher education, and vocational training are completed by both genders here. Thus, normal family life in Oman has much in common with how it was kn...