Five Things to Know About Oman

 From the Atlantic:

A few things to know about the Kansas-sized sultanate:

1. Oman is the only country in the Islamic world with a majority of Ibadhi Muslims (distinct from Shia and Sunni Muslims). Ibadhis are known for being moderately conservative and for choosing their ruler through communal consensus.

2. It produces about 4.8 billion barrels of oil each year, mere drops in comparison to the output of some of its neighbors. Accordingly, many Omanis still rely on agriculture and fishing for their livelihoods; dates make up the majority of the country's agricultural exports.

3. It's the oldest independent state in the Arab world.

4. The country's 1984 press act empowers the government to censor publications judged as culturally or politically offensive. Criticism of the Sultan is forbidden.

5. Before Sultan Qaboos seized power from his father in a 1970 coup, the country was isolated and had virtually no relations with the rest of the Arab world. Radios were banned. Citizens found outside the walls of the city after imposed curfews would be shot if they weren't carrying a lantern. From the support of Middle East peace initiatives to a recent increase in trade with China, the Sultan has strengthened Oman's relationships with countries around the world.