Night scene on an urban street with young women walking on the sidewalk in Oman.

Education System

Written by: Luca Krohn , Philip Eichkorn and Michaela Eckmüller Last updated at: May 21, 2025

When Sultan Qaboos Ibn Said seized power in 1970, the education system in the country was outdated and in no way future-oriented. There were only three boys' primary schools in the largest cities of the country, alongside the exclusively religiously motivated Quran school. At that time, only about 900 students were taught by 30 teachers. Given the population of approximately 700,000, the number of students at that time was very small.

From the beginning of his reign, Sultan Qaboos had the plan to lead his people into an era of prosperity and progress. His success in this can be attributed, on one hand, to the oil and gas reserves in the country and, on the other hand, to the development of a functioning and successful education system, which is partially based on the British education system.

How does the Omani education system work?

Sultan Qaboos Ibn Said was educated in England. This is why the school system in Oman is partially modeled after that in England. Thus, students first attend primary school, then middle school, and finally high school. With a high school diploma, one has the opportunity to enroll in a degree program at a higher education institution such as the state university.

The development of the school system is being effectively promoted

The importance of the development of the education system to the government in Oman is evident from the fact that high costs are incurred to make education accessible to everyone in the country. Over 1,530 public and private schools in the country, employing around 50,000 teachers, enable about 700,000 students to achieve a good educational level. Education in Oman is not dependent on income or background. School attendance is free in Oman. About a quarter of civil state expenditures goes into education. It is also notable that about 50% of the students are girls and young women – a rate that corresponds to the population proportions in the country.

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 security guard with gray hair and a black cap seen from behind, standing on an escalator in an indoor location.

Safety in Oman

6 min read

Over recent years, Oman has established itself as one of the safest travel destinations in the Middle East, especially appealing to individual and luxury travelers. The Sultanate stands out with its political stability, low crime rate, and well-developed healthcare system that meets the needs of modern travelers. Ranked as the most peaceful country in the region on the 2023 Global Peace Index and scoring extremely low on the Global Terrorism Index, Oman presents a rare oasis of safety. These stable conditions create an ideal environment for relaxed, authentic travel experiences....

A grand political palace with a large open courtyard in front, featuring a modern architectural style and surrounded by trees and fencing.

Politics in Oman

2 min read

Oman is an Arab and Islamically shaped state. Thus, many views and ways of life refer to the Quran, the holy scripture of Muslims, and Sharia is used as a legal basis. The head of state of Oman is Sultan Haitham ibn Tariq. The Sultan unites both the executive and the judiciary and legislature within himself and therefore possesses all the power. However, the Omanis do not see the Sultan as an absolutist ruler, but much more as a father who has shown them the way into a new era, towards freedom and into the modern age. There are no parties and a parliament in the Omani government. Sultan Haith...

A solitary person dressed in black walking in an arched, sunlit courtyard with intricate shadows on the polished floor.

Clothing in Oman

5 min read

When traveling in Oman, it’s important to understand the cultural significance of clothing, as it reflects the country's deep connection to its traditions and heritage. While Omanis take pride in their traditional attire, they also adapt to the local climate and environment. For visitors, respecting the local dress codes is not only a matter of etiquette but also a way to show appreciation for Omani culture and religious customs. This blend of functionality, aesthetics, and cultural importance makes clothing in Oman an intriguing part of both everyday life and the travel experience....

Why book with the Oman specialist

On site

Own Canvas Club team with office in Muscat and Salalah. We know all tour guides for many years, all services on site come from us - from one source!

Expertise

Every travel consultant has already lived in Oman for several years. We know all the hotels and highlights of the country personally! And are several times a year on the spot.

Hotel product

Own luxury desert camp 'Canvas Club' in the Wahiba Sands desert with exclusive benefits for our clients

Network

Attractive prices and exclusive benefits through long-standing, trusting partnerships with local hoteliers and service providers.

Accessibility

Contactable 7 days a week via all common communication channels - 24h emergency number on site.

Personal

Each trip is individually worked out and 100% tailored to your needs!