A small green rectangular playing field situated on a dusty, dry hillside with rocky terrain and mountainous backdrop.

Population

Population

Written by: Luca Krohn Last updated at: May 21, 2025

Oman had around 4.52 million inhabitants in 2021. It is likely that the number has again increased, as it has generally been on the rise in recent decades. The birth rate of almost three children per woman not only reflects the Arabian love for large families, rather, it is an expression of the deep satisfaction that persists in the country and of the fact that people have experienced a transformation in the last few decades that is second to none. Due to this fact, more than half of Omanis are under 18 years old and more than 30 % are under 15. The people of Oman today have a much longer life expectancy than they did some three decades ago. Only parts of the country can really be described as inhabited. Oman is about the size of the Federal Republic of Germany, but a much smaller population. In addition, about 78 % of the people in Oman live in metropolitan areas. Only 5 % of the people live as Bedouins even the desert dwellers have mostly traded their tents for permanent houses. In addition to high birth rates and low mortality rates, many European expatriates have contributed to the strong growth of the population in recent decades, which has almost quintupled in the last 30 years.

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 view of rugged rocky terrain and deep canyon walls with winding paths and steep cliffs.

Mountains and Rocks

2 min read

Like hardly any other Arab country, Oman can be proud of a whole series of impressive and exciting mountain ranges. Indeed, these regions are one of the reasons why Oman is becoming increasingly interesting for more and more tourists. For spending a vacation here does not mean lying on the beach for 14 days and lounging around. Rather, one can discover a wide variety of things and natural wonders here. The mountains and rocky landscapes of Oman definitely belong to these natural wonders. Jebel Shams – the highest mountain of the Arabian Peninsula Jebel Shams (translated: Mountain of the Sun)...

A brown and white goat standing on rocky terrain in a natural outdoor setting.

Oman’s Fascinating Wildlife

7 min read

Oman is renowned not only for its stunning landscapes and historical sites but also for its incredible diversity of wildlife. From the arid deserts to the lush coastal regions, the country is home to a captivating array of animals that enchant travelers from around the world. Whether on land or in the sea, Oman’s wildlife offers unique encounters that make your travel experience truly unforgettable. In this article, we introduce some of the country’s most impressive animals and explain where and how you can best see them....

A quiet, sandy beach with mountains in the background under a clear sky.

Best time of travel

8 min read

Oman is a country of striking contrasts, where breathtaking deserts, fertile oases, and dramatic coastlines come together. But when is the best time to explore this fascinating destination? Oman’s climate varies significantly by region and season, with each period offering its own highlights and experiences. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach getaway, an adventurous desert safari, or the unique natural phenomenon of the Khareef monsoon, careful planning will help you make the most of Oman year-round. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of Oman’s climate, the ideal tra...