Chapter 3: Persian Gulf, Arabian Peninsula
Oman: Overview
Facts
/ Geography, Climate / Cities
/ Posture Statement Excerpt
Leadership
/ System Essentials / Infrastructure
/ Population / Fielded Forces
/ Table of Contents
Oman is located on the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula. Its land borders with the UAE and Saudi Arabia are still undefined. Oman has nearly 1000 miles of coastline along the Gulf of Oman and Indian Ocean. Its territory also includes a tip of the strategically important Musandam Peninsula, which is separated by the UAE from the rest of Oman. Oman is mostly desert with approximately 15% percent of it's land mountainous. The country has four major geographical regions: the Musandam Peninsula, the Al Batinah coastal plain, the Oman interior, and the Dhofar region.
Most of Oman has hot and humid summers, with dry, cool winters. The coastal areas of Dhofar have a more tropical climate with fewer temperature extremes than the rest of the country and a short monsoon season.
Oman's strategic location at the Strait of Hormuz, and active cooperation in regional security initiatives, make it a significant partner in the protection of U.S. and Western interests in Southwest Asia. Because of its position, a stable Oman is essential to protecting and maintaining the free flow of oil and other trade through the Arabian Gulf.
With a moderate political stance on key issues, Oman is an important regional friend. Long a supporter of our presence in the region, Oman was the first of the Gulf countries to conclude an access agreement with the United States. Additionally, Oman has long provided valuable support to U.S. maritime and air operations in the region, enhancing our ability to respond to contingencies that may arise in the Middle East and Africa. U.S.-Omani security cooperation continues to grow, fostered by Omani support for U.S. regional initiatives and a combined exercise program. In January 1994, Oman assumed a seat on the UN Security Council, where it plays an important role as a world leader and a moderate Arab voice on the Council. The Government of Oman, which has had a Majlis since 1991, continues to support the peace process through participation in various regional working groups.