Oman
Sultanate of Oman
Population
4.6M
GDP
$105.0B
Capital
Muscat
Government
Absolute monarchy
At a Glance
Human Development
0.8
HDI (0-1)
Democracy
3.1
EIU (0-10)
Press Freedom
—
RSF score
Corruption
—
TI CPI (0-100)
Innovation
—
GII score
Happiness
—
WHR (0-10)
Oman is a sultanate on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, commanding the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz through which roughly 20% of the world's oil transits. Under the late Sultan Qaboos (r. 1970-2020), Oman established itself as the Gulf's preeminent diplomatic intermediary, maintaining channels with all parties in regional disputes.
Oman's foreign policy of active neutrality has enabled it to facilitate backchannel negotiations, including the secret U.S.-Iran talks that led to the JCPOA nuclear deal. Sultan Haitham bin Tariq has continued this tradition while pursuing economic diversification under Oman Vision 2040. Oman is the only Gulf state that practices Ibadi Islam, distinguishing it from both Sunni and Shia neighbors.
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As Oman, play the role of quiet mediator and honest broker. Your superpower is maintaining relations with all sides -- Iran and Saudi Arabia, Israel and Palestine, the U.S. and its adversaries.
Avoid taking confrontational positions. Instead, offer to facilitate dialogue. On Gulf issues, maintain independence from the Saudi-UAE axis. On Yemen, advocate for peace given your shared border and historical ties. Emphasize the Strait of Hormuz's importance for global trade and your role in securing it. Use your neutrality to build trust across blocs.
Foreign Policy
Oman's foreign policy is defined by its unique neutrality within the Gulf. It maintains cordial relations with Iran, Israel, and all Arab states simultaneously -- a rare position. Oman has served as a diplomatic backchannel for the U.S.-Iran nuclear talks, Yemen peace efforts, and hostage negotiations. It is a GCC member but did not join the Saudi-led intervention in Yemen or the blockade of Qatar. Oman Vision 2040 drives economic diplomacy focused on logistics, tourism, and manufacturing.