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

Two vendors at a fish market engaged in conversation and transaction.

Muttrah Fish Market

2 min read

Those who love to explore early in the morning will be delighted by the lively hustle and bustle of the Muttrah Fish Market. The fish market in Muttrah is one of the largest and most beautiful markets in the Muscat governorate. Until the 19th century, the small neighboring town of Muttrah was overshadowed by the main metropolis, Muscat City. After the decline of Oman's international trade relations, Muttrah regained its significance as a commercial port city. With the modernization of the harbor, Muttrah has even become the trading capital of the country. Muttrah Fish Market, a meeting point ...

Two Nigerian banknotes, a 5- and a 20-naira note, placed on a dark surface.

Currency in Oman

5 min read

Are you planning a trip to Oman and wondering how the currency works? Here you will find all the important information about the currency in Oman, the Omani Rial (RO), and how you can best exchange money....

A desert landscape with a large tent, a rug, and camels in the distance during sunset.

Life in Oman

6 min read

Oman is quickly emerging as a hidden gem for independent travelers. With its unique blend of ancient culture, breathtaking landscapes, and modern comforts, the country is drawing more visitors who crave off-the-beaten-path adventures. This rise in popularity is reflected in the latest travel trends, positioning Oman as an ideal destination for custom-tailored experiences and authentic encounters....