Politics in Oman
Politics in Oman
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 Haitham ibn Tariq combines traditional Islamic rule with modern views. He is supported by a cabinet of ministers, state secretaries, and special advisors appointed by him. He himself holds the positions of Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, Defense Minister, and Finance Minister. The former Sultan Qaboos had a special relationship with his people, traveling across the country each year and inviting them for an audience. When citizens have a problem, they could directly approach the Sultan and the responsible minister during this so-called 'Meet-the-people-Tour'. Since 1991, there has also been an advisory council composed of representatives of the people. This council examines the ministries and the legislative proposals. Oman is on the way to becoming an Islamic democracy. In 1996, the Omani Constitution, consisting of 81 articles, was promulgated. This regulates the aspects of the state apparatus and the succession to the throne. It forms the basis for social and political stability in the country and the guarantee of the rights and freedoms of each individual. The government was also expanded by a state council, which aims to promote cooperation between the people and the government.
Domestic politics
Oman is divided into three governorates (Muscat, Dhofar, and Musandam) as well as 44 municipal districts. The community representatives represent the connection between tradition and modern administration. They make significant decisions, coordinate governmental affairs in their district, relay concerns of the tribes, and consult with the Ministry of Interior. The legislation and judiciary of the Sultanate are based on Islamic legislation, Sharia. The country has nearly 50 Sharia courts for civil and criminal proceedings, a supreme court in Muscat, appellate courts, and regional courts. The death penalty is imposed for murder and serious crimes such as drug trafficking.
Foreign policy
The Sultanate of Oman was in isolation for over 100 years. When Sultan Qaboos took power in 1970, reforms were introduced to help the country out of isolation. The Sultan built good relationships with his neighboring countries and Western industrialized nations. For Qaboos, this is a sign of striving for world peace and understanding among nations. Today, Oman is a member of organizations such as the UN, the Arab League, and others. The state maintains diplomatic relations with over 120 countries.
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
Salalah Airport
The international airport of Salalah is located behind the airport in Muscat, the second largest in the country. The airport is about 10 kilometers from the city center and lies a little north of Salalah. From here, one can choose both domestic connections to Muscat and other regions of Oman as well as European destinations. History of the airport The airport of Salalah was opened in 1977. It was the time when Sultan Qaboos had just begun to implement the first significant improvements in infrastructure development. The very first reforms and construction projects benefited from the steady f...
Fjorde & Dhow
One of the most famous images from Musandam is the fjord-like bays that can be found in many places along the steep coast; breathtaking cliffs that plunge into the sea and create pictures that inevitably remind some travelers of Norway. No wonder that Musandam has earned the nickname 'Norway of the Middle East'. These beauties can be experienced and learned about in various ways. Experience the fjords up close Anyone visiting Khasab will quickly notice that the capital of Musandam has quite a bit to offer, but is not necessarily suitable for a longer stay – unless one wants to use their acco...
International Connection of Omans
Oman is one of the rising stars in the tourism industry. Therefore, the number of airlines flying to Oman has increased significantly in recent years. However, there are still relatively few direct flights to Oman. Most direct flights from Germany land in the capital muscat. From there, you can reach other places in the country, such as Salalah. With Oman Air, you have the best chance of getting a direct flight. You can fly from Frankfurt, Munich, and Zurich to Muscat without a stopover. The flight takes about six and a half hours, while the travel time for flights with stopovers is significa...