International Trade
International Trade
Oman's foreign trade in the first half of the last century was limited exclusively to agricultural products. Oman’s top exports early on were dates and regionally produced vegetables, fish, and frankincense resins. Trade during this time was primarily a domestic affair, with virtually no exchange with other states. Even rice, a staple of Omani food, was imported. Other types of goods were rarely imported nor considered necessary. There were no major trading ports in Oman, no serviceable airports, no infrastructure, and no modern communications technology. Oman was a dead country economically, in terms of world trade, and technologically. But then, the country’s oil production started and Sultan Quaboos, who seemed to only have been waiting for the opportunity to lead his people into a time of innovation and openness to the world, took his chance.
Today’s foreign trade in Oman
Today, Omani foreign trade is dominated by the two great energy suppliers oil and gas. These two products account for around 80 % of Oman's exports. But the country and especially the economy of the country are undergoing a change. The foundations for the growth of new economic sectors have long been laid. With an excellent education system and a large number of government-supported programs for other economic sectors, Oman is working feverishly to make itself interesting in other areas of the world. It also found the way back to its roots.
Important foreign trade products other than oil and gas
In addition to oil and gas, Oman has returned to exporting products it previously sold to neighboring countries – (with modest means) until the middle of the last century. Today, Omani agricultural products like dates, lemons, pomegranates, Arabic vegetables and, above all, frankincense, can be obtained worldwide. Particularly skilled in the production of incense, Oman is a top global supplier and considered the world's largest supplier of frankincense. But other export items such as metals, precious metals, and services are on the rise. So, as Oman strengthens its foreign trade, it wants to take an important step away from oil and gas dependency. And in recent years, Oman has been increasingly successful in diversifying its economy.
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.
Experts for your Oman trip
You might also like this
Tourism in Oman
Das Sultanat Oman auf der arabischen Halbinsel entwickelt sich im Tourismus auf nachhaltigem Weg stetig weiter. Die Philosophie ist hier grundlegend verschieden zu der der Nachbarländer wie etwa den Vereinigten Arabischen Emiraten. In Oman gibt es wenige Hotels, die jedoch auf sehr hohem Standard angesiedelt sind. Das Bild ist von wenigen Luxushotels geprägt, während man einfache Hotels oder Guesthouses selten sieht. Eine Studie des World Economic Forum (veröffentlicht im April 2017) setzt Oman auf den neunten Platz im Bereich Wachstum Tourismus. Es bleibt der Charakter von sanftem Tourismus,...
Whales and Dolphins
In der Unterwasserwelt an den omanischen Küsten des indischen Ozeans findet man von der nördlichen Region Musandam bis in die südliche Region Dhofar Wale und Delfine. Diese Säugetiere entwickelten sich vor etwa 50 Millionen Jahren in unseren Weltmeeren. Dabei war die größte Herausforderung für die Tiere, die Atmung an das Leben im Wasser anzupassen. Die Natur löste das Problem, indem sich Nasenlöcher zu sogenannten Blaslöchern auf der Kopfoberseite entwickelten. Die Fortbewegung wurde durch den stromlinienförmigen Körper optimiert. Zur Navigation entstanden die Schwanzfluke und Rückenfinne. Da...
Oman’s Fascinating Wildlife
Arabian Oryx (White Oryx) Fascinating Facts about the Arabian Oryx The Arabian Oryx (Oryx leucoryx), also known as the White Oryx, is a remarkable antelope species that fascinates with its ability to thrive in extreme desert conditions. Standing between 80 to 100 cm at the shoulder and weighing up to 75 kg, it’s one of the smaller Oryx species. Its white coat reflects the harsh desert sun, while its striking horns and black-and-white facial markings make it easily recognizable. The Arabian Oryx symbolizes endurance and resilience in the deserts of the Middle East.Habitat and Origins The Ara...