The development of the state

When Sultan Qaboos took power in 1970, Oman was considered one of the most backward countries in the world. However, thanks to targeted investment of revenues from the oil business, the country was able to develop into an exemplary modern state within just a few years.

A few examples illustrate the scale of this unique feat for a developing country: in 1970, there was only one tarred road in the whole of Oman, less than ten kilometres long. Today, the Sultanate's transport network comprises over 31,000 kilometres of asphalt roads. The messengers on horseback have been replaced by one of the most modern telephone networks in the world. The postal system has been expanded throughout the country and functions quickly and reliably. The only health centre worth mentioning in Muttrah in 1970 has given way to a comprehensive health system with 65 hospitals and a large number of polyclinics and private clinics. Today, medical care reaches 90 per cent of the population. The original three boys' schools have now grown into over 1,500 institutions where boys and girls are educated.

The United Nations Human Development Report of October 2010 ranked the Sultanate of Oman first among the countries with the fastest progress in the period between 1970 and 2010.