Politics & Government Guide
Political system, governance structure, stability indicators, and democratic institutions in Oman
Oman remains an absolute monarchy under Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, who serves as both head of state and government. In early 2026, significant governance reforms were enacted through royal decrees, including ministerial mergers and new economic offices, alongside the launch of the Eleventh Five-Year Development Plan aligned with Oman Vision 2040. Political participation is limited, with no parties allowed and a consultative bicameral assembly.
Political Stability
Below Average
Corruption Index
Below Average
Democracy Index
Below Average
Government Type
Absolute monarchy
Legal System
Mixed legal system of Islamic law and English common law
Head of State
Sultan Haitham bin Tariq(since 2020)
Head of Government
Sultan Haitham bin Tariq(None)since 2020
Political Indicators
Political Stability
Scale: 0-1
Moderate
World Bank (2024)
Corruption Index
Scale: 0-100
Transparency International (2024)
Press Freedom
Scale: 0-100
Reporters Without Borders (2024)
Democracy Index
Scale: 0-10
Authoritarian
Economist Intelligence Unit (2024)
Legislature
Voting Rights
Limited to elections for the Consultative Assembly; only Omani citizens aged 21 and over; women gained suffrage in 1994.
Recent Developments
- January 2026: Sultan Haitham issued multiple Royal Decrees restructuring government, merging ministries, establishing new offices like Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs and Research and Innovation Authority
- January 2026: Launch of Eleventh Five-Year Development Plan (2026-2030) focusing on economic diversification, sustainability, and governance strengthening
- 2026: Restructuring of Council of Ministers and administrative apparatus under Oman Vision 2040
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