Oman is the country in the Middle East that has been least affected by the current Iran-US war. Initially Iran dropped two drones and some small missiles there, but later it distanced itself from Oman, because it understood that Oman was not involved in this war and was neutral. Oman has always adopted a neutral policy. It has good relations with Iran and also has balanced relations with America and western countries. The US does not have a major permanent military base in Oman, so it is not directly dragged into the conflict.
Oman has not taken part in any major war in the last several years. There was no direct attack on Oman even during the Gulf War of 1990-91, Iraq-Kuwait conflict, Yemen war and recent tensions. This is the reason why this country remained different and more secure than other Gulf countries.
Many Gulf countries suffer loss due to closure of Strait of Hormuz
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz caused huge losses to many Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain and Qatar, because their oil and trade depend on this route, but it had less impact on Oman. This is because Oman’s main ports such as Sohar, Salah and Duqm are outside this waterway. Therefore the ships here can come and go directly from the open sea. Oman imports most of its goods like rice, grains and meat from these ports. Now even goods from many countries first come to Oman and are sent further from there.
What is the population of Oman?
Oman’s population is about 5.5 million, of which 43 percent are foreigners. Among them, Indians are the largest, whose number is around 7 to 8 lakh. Indian people work here in engineering, IT, hospital, business, construction and service sectors. About 35 percent of Indians work as doctors, engineers and managers, while 25 to 30 percent do labor or technical work. Most of the area of ​​Oman is desert, so this country is dependent on other countries for food. Now its food security has reached about 65 to 66 percent, but grains, fruits and vegetables still come from outside. Food items are also sent here on a large scale from India.
On what does Oman’s economy depend?
Oman’s economy is still based on oil and gas, but it is also expanding work in other sectors under Vision 2040. Despite this, the main income still comes from oil and gas. The lifestyle here is considered comfortable and safe. Crime is low, healthcare and education are good and the environment is safe for foreigners. There is no tax on salary here and the cost of living is about 36 percent less than America.
