Before we begin, make sure you read our recent blog on “10 Amazing Facts About Syria” for some insightful information.
1. Oman is the oldest independent country in the Arab world. Oman has been ruled by the Omani Al Said Family since 1744. It was one of the most isolated and traditional countries in the Arab World, until the 1970s when Sultan Qaboos became the ruler. It is also estimated that humans have been living in Oman for at least 106,000 years, making it one of the oldest human-inhabited countries on Earth.
2. Oman is a terrorism free country. According to the Global Terrorism Index, Oman is one of the safest and most secure countries in the Arab World. In the latest report of 2019- 2020, Oman came near last on the list, with a score of 0, which means it is one of the countries with the least terrorism in the world. It also has one of the lowest crime rates in the world.
3. Alcohol can only be bought with a license in Oman. Alcohol is not widely consumed by the largely Muslim Omanis. It is almost unheard of to drink, except by tourists and non-Muslims. In Oman, a person needs a license, which is issued by the police, to buy alcohol.
4. An average Omani’s love for mountain dew knows no bounds. Willing to go to any extent for this carbonated drink, this beverage enjoys a monopolised market with no equal to rival it. Since the introduction of mountain dew in Oman, it is one of the few drinks which has the highest rate of consumption for any middle-eastern country. It is often hailed as the “alcohol of Oman”. Facts say that when coca-cola tried to enter the market, they were shunned away and their sales plummeted down to an all-time low in any country. With the Omani making their love for the former crystal clear, it has become a rarity to come across a cola bottle here.
5. The Omani are prohibited from honking in public and private places unless the direst of situations demand it. Walk down the streets of Oman, and you wouldn’t find a single soul honking unnecessarily.
6. More than half of Oman’s workforce comprises of Indians. Accounting for an enormous majority of workers hailing from several Asian countries, Oman’s workforce goes on to prove the saying – unity in diversity. People from various backgrounds migrate along several others to make a living and lead a better life.
7. The country is famous for its ornamented doors. Doors in Oman are unique, colourful and embroidered. And no matter what the whole house looks like, even a simple house has truly stunning doors.
8. There is no income tax in Oman. The Sultanate of Oman does not levy any taxes on personal income. However, a small amount from workers’ earnings are paid towards social security.
9. Oman fought the shortest war in recorded history. On 27th August 1896, the Anglo-Zanzibar War fought between Oman and Britain lasted no longer than 40 minutes.
